I wasn't really into Conan comics when I was a kid, I gravitated towards more superhero-related fare. Still, I found myself checking out issues from time to time just because of the gorgeous artwork. How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way turned me into a big fan of John Buscema, and seeing his pencils grace a story was always a treat.
Thank you to Brian C., a Patron of this blog, for suggesting this pairing!
I remember this issue of ARAK! The skeletal guy with the scythe was supposed to Charon the Boatman. Ferrier of souls across the River Styx in ancient Greek mythology. Mr. Buscema was evidently inspired by the depiction of Charon in the original (and undeniably far superior) Ray Harryhausen version of "Clash of the Titans."
ReplyDeletecollected and read arak at the time, have to admit that i have no memory of them at all so i presume that they were not great stories, where as Conan i have reread many times over the years…
ReplyDeleteInteresting. Sword & Sorcery with American Indian...different.
ReplyDeleteWhat would be needed for Conan to become hot again?
Isn't this the first time you've had Arak? I've been hoping he'd show up here eventually! Nice work, man!
ReplyDelete@Simon: you probably developed hysterical amnesia over the pathetic toy tie-in with Remco. Evidently, DC's ill-advised attempt to create a shared universe between Arak, The Warlord, and Hercules Unbound!
ReplyDelete@Anonymous: I know what you mean. Skullman was like a poor's man hybrid of Skeletor and the Task Master!
ReplyDeleteBen W, it is the first time indeed!
ReplyDeleteBrian Peck owns all of the art for How to Draw the Marvel Way. Some is in the CAF.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.comicartfans.com/galleryroom.asp?gsub=162339
"When Roams The Reaper"
ReplyDeleteDidn't the Mutton Birds have a hit song with that title down in New Zealand?
I actually really like Arak. It was interesting to have a Sword and Sorcery series that took place in historical times. I think the one big problem is that Roy Thomas didn't really have a handle on a Native American character. I have all the issues, but I have given up on a collected edition or a revival.
ReplyDeleteI would love it if DC could revive their Early Silver Age character, Strong Bow, and make him the half-Khewannantu son of Arak. Thereby tying him into Arion's back story, as well. Although--please, God--no Remco toy tie-in!
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