Review: Baltimore: Dr Leskovar’s Remedy #1

This 2 issue miniseries follows straight on from Baltimore: The Curse Bells, continuing Lord Baltimore’s quest for Haigus, A vampire who killed his family. Mike Mignola writes supernatural horror like no one else in the business, with the possible exception of Steve Niles. Baltimore: Dr Leskovar’s Remedy #1 is no different. It’s classic, gothic vampire fiction at it’s non-sparkling best.

There is a lot about this book that’s formulaic. It begins in a quaint little fishing village.
There’s a deserted town, A mad scientist, and let’s face it, Baltimore is not exactly a new type of character. He fits perfectly with the Mignola formula of broody bad-ass beats up supernatural bad guys. Here’s the thing, though – who ever said following a formula has to be a bad thing? Not only are we familiar with the character types and story, it suits the world of the comic.
I love the fact that every book in the Mignolaverse, regardless of when and where it’s set, and what artist draws it, feels the same. You know straight away you’re reading a Mignola book. It just has that creepy, foreboding feel to it that makes his books, including this one, so good.
Speaking of art, It’s Ben Stenbeck who takes up the pencil and brush this issue. It has a sort of Eric Powell meets Tonci Zonjic look, with bold lines, heavy inks and a sort of expressive simplicity. I love the crab motif that works it’s way through the book – it’s kinda creepy in a way that I’m unsure of. Stewart’s colours assist, also providing part of that aesthetic continuity mentioned above.
If you’re a Mignola fan, or a fan of supernatural horror in general, you’ll want to check out this mini series, and then go back and buy the first two trades.