Vampirella #3 Review: A Vegas Gamble | Dynamite

Vampirella #3

The deeply personal and action-packed saga of the Daughter of Drakulon continues in Vampirella #3, as the creative team takes our favorite vampire to the neon-drenched streets of Las Vegas. Writer Christopher Priest and artist Ergün Gündüz are once again at the helm, continuing their complex and emotionally charged narrative for Dynamite Entertainment. This issue dives deep into Vampirella’s psyche, exploring themes of motherhood and mental health while simultaneously setting the stage for a dark, dangerous future. It’s a dual narrative that challenges the character in ways rarely seen before, proving this run is essential reading.

The creative team behind this series has built a strong reputation within the comic book community for delivering sophisticated horror storytelling. Priest, known for his intricate character work, brings a level of psychological depth that elevates the entire story.

What to Expect in Vampirella #3

The present-day plotline of Vampirella #3 finds our protagonist at her breaking point. Overwhelmed by severe postpartum depression and unable to console her infant son, Vampirella makes a desperate decision: she abandons her responsibilities and flees to Las Vegas. This isn’t a simple vacation; it’s an escape born from profound distress. However, a being as powerful as Vampirella can’t simply blend in. Her arrival immediately sends ripples through the local vampire community, who view her as an existential threat. Their panic leads to a preemptive strike, forcing Vampi into a conflict she never sought, all while battling her own inner demons.

Meanwhile, Priest masterfully weaves in a second timeline set in a “darkly possible future.” In this grim reality, an older, more erratic Vampirella leads the Sacred Six—a team composed of Pantha, Nyx, Chastity, Victory, and Vampirette. This future version of our hero is leading her team on a mysterious mission, one that the solicit text hints may be the final straw that pushes her over the edge for good. This narrative structure creates an incredible sense of tension, as we see the struggling mother in the present and are forced to wonder if these are the events that lead to her fractured future self.

A Glimpse into a Dark Future

The inclusion of the Sacred Six adds another layer of intrigue for both new readers and longtime dedicated followers of the character. Each member brings their own history and power set, creating a dynamic that is sure to be explosive under the leadership of an unstable Vampirella. Priest is carefully planting seeds, building a larger mystery that connects the past, present, and future. The choices Vampirella makes today in Las Vegas will undoubtedly have dire consequences for the world she will one day be tasked with protecting—or perhaps, ruling.

Visually, Ergün Gündüz continues to deliver breathtaking and atmospheric artwork. His style is perfectly suited for the dual nature of the story, capturing both the glitzy, artificial light of Las Vegas and the shadowy, horror-infused elements of Vampirella’s world. The emotional turmoil on Vampirella’s face is palpable, and the action sequences are fluid and brutal. In addition, this issue features a stunning gallery of comic book covers from top-tier artists, offering a variety of interpretations of the iconic character.

Creative Team:

  • Writer: Christopher Priest
  • Artist: Ergün Gündüz
  • Covers: Lucio Parrillo, Greg Land, Shannon Maer, Elias Chatzoudis, Cosplay/Rachel Hollon
  • Publisher: Dynamite Entertainment

Fans looking for more titles from this publisher can explore the official Dynamite Entertainment page. This series is a fantastic example of the quality storytelling they are producing, and it’s a must-have for anyone checking out the latest new comics.

In conclusion, Vampirella #3 is a masterclass in comic book storytelling. It expertly balances intense character drama with high-stakes supernatural action. By tackling a raw, human issue like postpartum depression within a horror framework, Priest and Gündüz have created a narrative that is both compelling and deeply resonant. The dual-timeline structure adds a layer of suspense that makes each page turn feel significant. This issue is not just another monster-of-the-week story; it’s a critical chapter in the evolution of a classic character.


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