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Rising Stars: Best-Rated Indie Comics Lighting Up 2023

Updated: Dec 9, 2023



Hey comic enthusiasts, gather around! If you're tired of the same old superhero narratives and craving something fresh and innovative, look no further. The indie comic scene of 2023 is ablaze with brilliance, and we've rounded up the rising stars that are stealing the spotlight.




20th Century Men: Unconventional Superheroes Rewriting History (Image)

Superheroes as Mythology

Deniz Camp and Stipan Morian take us on a six-issue journey through the 20th century, reimagining superheroes as mythology. '20th Century Men' delves into the history of the past century, using superheroes as honest avatars for competing ideologies. It's a narrative that's as unconventional as the heroes it portrays, offering a unique lens on the world-changing events of the 1900s.


Brief History:

This comic series is set at the end of the 20th century, where superheroes, geniuses, madmen, and activists rush towards WWIII1. It features a Soviet “iron” hero, a superpowered American president, an insane cyborg soldier, and an Afghan woman hellbent on building a better life for her people. The series mixes history, politics, and comic book mythology into something totally new.




Akane-banashi: Unveiling Rakugo Traditions (VIZ)

Akane-Banashi
Akane-Banashi

Shonen Jump's Surprising Delight

'Akane-banashi' continues to captivate Shonen Jump audiences, shedding light on the traditions of rakugo, a traditional Japanese vaudeville-esque performance. Akane brings behind-the-scenes drama to life in an engaging and captivating way. It's not just a comic; it's a delightful exploration of culture and storytelling.


Brief History:

This manga series revolves around Akane, who takes on the world of rakugo to avenge her father. The original Akane-Banashi manga serialization began in February 2022, and it is published in Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump Magazine with new chapters being released on Sundays.




All Against All: Alien Intrigue and Mother Nature (Image)

Originality in Alien Encounters

Buckle up for 'All Against All,' where an alien race takes center stage with unparalleled originality. This comic provides a fresh introduction to an extraterrestrial civilization that believes it can control Mother Nature. Get ready for a mind-bending journey that challenges our perceptions of power and nature.


Brief History:

This comic series is set in the distant future where Earth is long gone, but a race of alien conquerors known as “the Operators” have preserved its most savage animals in an artificial jungle environment they barely understand. The series is written by Alex Paknadel and illustrated by Caspar Wijngaard.




Two Graves: Mystery Unfolds in Image's New Series

Two Graves
Two Graves

Intrigue with Genevieve Valentine

Genevieve Valentine crafts an intriguing narrative in 'Two Graves,' a new series from Image Comics. The first issue introduces us to a mysterious pair of traveling companions—a young woman and a man with smoke masking his head. As mystery surrounds their connection, readers are drawn into a web of suspense and anticipation.


Brief History:

This comic series follows Emilia and a man with a veil of smoke covering his head as the two embark on a cross-country journey from the east coast to the west. Emilia wants to spread his mother’s ashes over the Atlantic and the man, who is Death personified, is her ride. The series is written by Genevieve Valentine and illustrated by Annie Wu and Ming Doyle.




Mosely: A Janitor's Rebellion Against Technology (BOOM! Studios)

Tech Takeover in the Late 21st Century

In the late 21st century, where technology reigns supreme, 'Mosely' emerges as a five-issue miniseries from BOOM! Studios. Follow Moseley, a janitor with a complicated past, as he rebels against the overwhelming power of technology. It's a futuristic tale that explores the consequences of a world dominated by machines.


Brief History:

This comic series is about Mosely, a bitter old janitor on a mission from a higher power—to unleash holy Hell upon the “too big to fail” Tech Gods. The series is written by Rob Guillory and illustrated by Sam Lotfi.



Introduction: The Ascent of Indie Comics

In the ever-evolving realm of comics, 2023 has witnessed the meteoric rise of indie gems that have captivated audiences and redefined storytelling. Let's delve into why these comics have ascended to the spotlight and explore their unique narratives.


Conclusion: Illuminating the Future

In the dynamic world of 2023's indie comics, '20th Century Men' redefines superhero storytelling through a historical lens. 'Akane-banashi' excels in cultural exploration, bridging gaps with its delightful take on rakugo traditions.


'All Against All' pioneers extraterrestrial narratives with unmatched originality, challenging our perceptions. 'Two Graves' weaves a captivating mystery, while 'Mosely' warns of technology's dominance. 'Behold, Behemoth' revitalizes Kaiju comics, delivering unexpected twists.



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