Marvel Graphic Novel #7
Published and © by Marvel, 1983
Title: “Last Dreams Broken”
Synopsis: Killraven and company team with an old astronaut to battle Deathraven and the High Overlord.
Writer: Don McGregor
Artist: P. Craig Russell
Review: Don McGregor and P. Craig Russell finally get a chance to wrap up Killraven’s story (see earlier reviews). The duo takes full advantage of Marvel’s then-new graphic-novel format, with its higher production values and older target audience. But, ultimately, this book suffers from the same problem as earlier installments: The creative team’s reach too often exceeds its grasp. McGregor’s writing remains wordy – sometimes drifting into full typeset script – and fails to trust the art to do its share of the storytelling. Russell’s art shows continued improvement but is now an odd fit for the subject matter. Regardless, a worthy effort.
Grade: B+
Second opinion: “The magazine-sized format and lack of Comics Code approval freed creators, making for stories that would appeal to a more sophisticated audience, the audience that embraced Killraven’s original adventures in the first place. … 4 out of 4 stars.” – Comics Buyer’s Guide #1656, August 2009 … “The best McGregor writing I’ve seen in years.” – Martin Lock, Fantasy Advertiser #80, August 1983 … “A muddled and disappointing affair.” – Frank Plowright, The Slings & Arrows Comic Guide (second edition), 2003
Cool factor: Mad props to McGregor and Russell for pushing the medium throughout their run on Killraven. Even when they fall short, their experimentation and efforts are inspiring and a great deal of fun.
Not-so-cool factor: Too often, the narration conflicts with what the art or coloring is showing.
Notable: Killraven’s world is an extension of the “War of the Worlds” concepts by H.G. Wells. … Also includes “Martian Chronology Record” and “Martian Elite Profile” fact files on each of the lead characters.
Collector’s note: According to MyComicShop.com, there is a second printing of this issue.
Character quotable: “Come nightfall, we will approach from the ocean frontage, where their security is lightest … and we will put an end to their passionless dreams!” – Killraven, understanding the assignment
Editor’s note: This review was written July 10, 2025.
I wasn’t reading the Killraven comics back in the day, but I picked up this GN, even though I was unfamiliar with the characters and storyline. Mostly, I was attracted to PCRs artwork. I even liked the text pages, and was surprised by the collage pages.
Thanks for posting this review. It seems like this GN is a forgotten story from the 80s. Not a perfect comic, but somewhat undervalued.
I think the entire Killraven run is ripe for a critical reappraisal. Both McGregor and Russell were pushing the envelope of what was “normal” for a monthly book on Amazing Adventures. And Russell’s art grew so quickly. Fans always point to Barry Windsor-Smith’s rapid growth on Conan; I think PCR’s evolution on Killraven is every bit as impressive!