Comic Book Review - The Knights of Heliopolis

Rob reviews The Knights of Heliopolis...

The Knights of Heliopolis is a reinterpretation of Alexander Dumas' Man in the Iron Mask. Alejandro Jodorowsky takes the classic French revolutionary tale and twists it into an alternative dimension filled with some amazing fantasy work. 

"In a monastery in the North of Spain hides the sacred temple of The Knights of Heliopolis: an assembly of immortal alchemists cut off from the world. As disciple Seventeen prepares to complete his training and join the order, his master Fulcanelli reveals to the other knights the terrible secret of his origins - Seventeen is the hidden son of King Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette. Will the young heir claim the throne or remain in the shadows, faithful to the millennial precepts of Alchemy?"

The Knights of Heliopolis features quite the cast of characters. Alejandro Jodorowsky brings each character to life and the writer uses these to explore a wealth of human emotions. Through the main character of Asiamar, Jodorowsky explores gender identity, human nature and overall spirituality. It makes for some fantastic reading that expands upon Dumas' original story in a thought-provoking way. 

Of course, the swashbuckling heroes, lustful romances, murder and, treachery are here too, which all comes together to make a compelling period drama - in comic book form. 

I've not touched upon many of Jodorowsky's previous films and comics, but reading Knights of Heliopolis has made my adventure further down the proverbial rabbit hole. Fans of Alejandro Jodorowsky's previous works will no doubt see quite a few similar themes and occurrences throughout.

Jérémy’s artwork is both stunning and expressive. There's great detail on show throughout with some fantastically detailed character expressions and locations. The action is also beautifully designed and Jérémy choreographs some intimate, yet epic fight scenes. The opening fight between "Seventeen" and a sword-wielding Gorilla is both equally bizarre and amazing - and is a sign of what's to come! 

Knights of Heliopolis is Downton Abby, Assassins Creed, and Game of Thrones all thrown together. It's got all the workings of a big-budget HBO television series, with some intimate character portrayals. There's plenty of action, romance, and intrigue, to keep you interested in this masterful display from Alejandro Jodorowsky.

Let's not forget Kanye West's endorsement...

Rating 10/10

The Knights of Heliopolis is available in bookstores and comics shops right now. You can order via Amazon and Forbidden Planet (UK & Europe) or via digital download.

Rob Lake - For more comic book and video game chat why not follow Geek Culture Reviews on Twitter and Facebook @GeekCultureRev