Los Monstruos #1 Review
Hard-boiled Werewolf P.I.
In the hustling and bustling city of Los Monstruos, monsters of every possibility roam the streets. A home to all monsters of every sort. Set in the 1950s, private investigator Perry Cutter is one individual who can be called upon to take on a case no one can solve. Of course, his price to take on a challenging case doesn’t come cheap. Los Monstruos #1 puts Perry in a case that may put his senses, fangs, and intuition to the test. To find a missing vampiress at the request of a withering old man, he may venture to dangerous parts of the city that could cost him his monstrous life. Seeking an audience with Ramses Ra might spell a bigger lead or a one-way ticket to oblivion.
Scripted by James Robinson (Avengers, Earth 2, Justice League of America), Los Monstruos #1 dives into a city populated by creatures of the night mixed with a crime element. What’s interesting about Robinson’s story is the delivery of what a gritty detective story feels like. In addition, there is a connection to the main character that makes a reader feel comfortable, even though, when they realize it, he’s not human when he transforms into a werewolf. As a private investigator, Robinson gives Perry a strong sense of justice and character that draws the reader into his life. Perry is what someone would call a beast with a heart of compassion. At first, it seems like another monster story, but it turns out it’s far from other kinds of monster stories. It has comedy bits, the occasional detective talking to himself as he goes through his struggles, and the stylized atmosphere of a hard-boiled world mixed with bizarre creatures. Robinson studied the concept of private investigators for this story because it flows naturally without feeling like anything was forced into the story.
The artwork illustrated by Jesús Merino (Action Comics, Aquaman, Fantastic Four) masterfully apprehends the visionary world of Robinson. The number of creatures of every sort that appear in panels is fascinating to stop for a moment and observe what they are. Merino had a lot to work with, and through his work, Los Monstruos #1 came to life. Panel distribution and detail were one of the key components that kept the story progressive. The world Perry lives in is so unique due to the sheer effort Merino put in because, without this level of attention, the story wouldn’t feel the same. Illustrating a 1950s art style can be difficult, but Merino did very well at giving readers a visual first-hand experience.
Regarding coloring work, K.J. Díaz (Blade, Dejah Thoris, Ether) complemented Merino’s art with color palettes to match the world of Los Monstruos. The coloring screams 1950s and contributes great, seeable depictions of various monsters that come into focus within the panels and pages of the comic book.
Combining their respective talents, Merino and Diaz create a cover that entices readers to pick it up and read it. A werewolf man holding a revolver on the front cover isn’t something a reader sees every day.
Lastly, but not least, Jim Campbell’s (Abbott, All-New X-Men, The Avengers) lettering work feels just right for Los Monstruos #1. Not once did any of the sound effects or captions obstruct the overall story.
Final Thoughts?
Los Monstruos #1 is a great read. Seeing popular monsters walk about on the street like it’s nothing is wildly interesting. This comic book doesn’t have the capability of being boring and drawn out. It’s straight to the point and doesn’t spend too much unnecessary time on elements that may prolong the story further. If readers are interested, you can pick this up at your local comic book store or where they are sold online.
Comic Details
Writer: James Robinson
Artist: Jesús Merino
Colorist: K.J. Díaz
Letterer: Jim Campbell
Cover Artist: Jesús Merino, K.J. Díaz
Editor: Daniel Chabon
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Date of Release: May 7th, 2025
Rating: 5/5
About the Author
Howard Smith Howard is a passionate collector and avid reader of comics who resides in the city of Washington, D.C. His love for all things pop culture extends beyond the pages of comics, as he attends popular culture conventions both locally and out of state. Whether he’s searching for rare comic finds or engaging in video games, or reading manga he manifests an opportunity to celebrate his fandom. Follow along as he explores the worlds of superheroes, sci-fi, and beyond, always with a keen eye for adventure and a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling.
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