If the first issue of Highlander Origins: The Kurgan gave us the reasons as to why the titular character was such an evil creature in the first Highlander film, the second issue manages to show us how he built the reputation that Ramirez alludes to in that same film. Not only that, this issue also covers many centuries while showing The Kurgan crossing paths with characters from not only the TV series, but also one of the lesser liked sequel films. This issue is a great read and worth taking your time to go through in order to pick up on all the details and bits from the extensive Highlander continuity.
Writer Brandon Jerwa once again amazes with the depth and complexity he manages to bring to the seemingly one-note character. Jerwa shows us that The Kurgan is truly a crafty, conniving and calculating sadistic bastard. And while you’ll never feel sympathy for or relate to him, The Kurgan’s motivations are understandable, to a certain extent. Another plus is that Jerwa not only manages to work in a band of characters from the TV series, but even throws in some love and legitimacy for the third Highlander film. And he never violates the established continuity of the TV series, films and the comic books. During the lack of new Highlander films and shows, and sometimes instead of in the film sequels case, Brandon Jerwa’s comics are compelling additions to the mythos.
Carlos Rafael’s artwork is superb, both here and in the first issue. Let’s face it, Immortals who battle to the beheading with swords is not family friendly. Rafael certainly does not shy away from the violence and the story is the better for it. His art complements the script beautifully and makes the whole thing look and feel like a Highlander tale should. Add to is all the phenomenal coloring by Carlos Lopez and you have the second of two gorgeous books. I only hope that the team of Jerwa, Rafael and Lopez have more Highlander comics coming our way very soon.
Contest has ended, thanks to all who entered! If you haven’t picked up the second issue yet, or even the first, Pop Culture Zoo has the contest for you. We’re giving away three prize packs listed below. In order to enter, leave a comment below telling us who your favorite Immortal is from the films, TV shows or comic books and why. We’ll take comments until February 24th at 11:59PM PST and then let the magic of the Random Number Generator determine who gets the following:
Runner-Up:
Highlander Origins: The Kurgan #2 Cover A
First Prize:
Highlander Origins: The Kurgan #2 Cover A and B
Grand Prize:
Highlander Origins: The Kurgan #1 Cover B and C
Highlander Origins: The Kurgan #2 Cover A and B
On February 18, 2009, Brad Reeves said:
This comic rocks! My favorite immortal is an evil immortal named Grayson from the tv series.
On February 18, 2009, GCarlson said:
Lesser liked sequel films? Highlander 3 was the only sequel I liked. Endgame was pure crap and the Source and #2 are unmentionable.
On February 19, 2009, Benjamin DeLeon said:
My favorite character was Connor. He was the one that started it all for me. I actually remember watching the trailer for the first movie when I was a kid. It was the Highlander that made me want to learn about swords. It was Connor’s sword from Marto that was my first purchase of anything with my first paycheck.
I want the prize!
On February 19, 2009, Jason Marz said:
This was kick ass! The Horsemen fighting the Kurgan I didn’t see coming but it was better than I thought it could be. I don’t love Highlander III but I don’t hate it either so seeing Kane didn’t do anything for me but it makes sense hes there. I hope this is in a trade paperback soon!
On February 22, 2009, Sue said:
I like Amanda from the TV show. She is cunning and manipulative yet the same time, you cant help but understand her motivations. She just want to continue living.
On February 23, 2009, Joe said:
I like Ramirez the most, out of all the immortals, because he was a great teacher, funny, and not to mention…good with the ladies :)
“I don’t eat anything I can’t identify…”
On February 23, 2009, Rob Nimmo (The Next Highlander) said:
In all honesty, I’m glad to see any continuation of the characters’ stories from the first film, third film, The Series, The Raven and Endgame, regardless of te format, if it’s written by people who understand the complexities of the characters, their relationships with each other, and the hard-to-grasp (but still there if you watch it enough with your eyes open) continuity that makes Highlander one of the most unique(and infuriating) sci-fi/fantasy franchises out there.
My favorite immortal is Martin Hyde from The Series 2nd season episode “Prodigal Son”, because of his confidence, his arrogance and his ruthlessness. It was one of the few times where we genuinely got to see FEAR in Duncan’s eyes during a fight.
On August 16, 2009, Sean said:
It’s too bad that Marto doesn’t pay for the official licensing of Highlander products anymore, even though they make the swords for them. If you purchase a sword today made by Marto (see them at Marto Swords From Spain) it is the SAME product as used on set, but no certificate of authenticity.