Jesse Custer is a small-town preacher losing his faith—until he merges with a divine being called Genesis. Now he has firsthand knowledge of both Heaven and Hell and a voice that’s automatically obeyed by anyone. Joined by an Irish vampire and an ex-lover, Jesse sets out on a mission to find God.

This comic book is a compelling and provocative start to a series that has become legendary in the world of comic books. With its gritty storytelling, dark humor, and complex characters. At the same time this comic book is a highly engaging read that leaves a lasting impression, though not without some flaws.

This comic book features a reprint of the first issue, offering fans and newcomers alike a chance to experience the story in a crisp, new format. From the very first page, the art by Steve Dillon is striking (rough, detailed, and expressive)  perfectly capturing the gritty tone of the narrative. Dillon’s distinctive style lends an almost raw authenticity to the story’s dark themes, with characters that feel both intimidating and deeply human.

At its core, this comic book introduces us to Jesse Custer, a conflicted preacher in a small Texas town who becomes entwined in a supernatural plot after an encounter with a mysterious entity called Genesis. The writing in this comic book is sharp, gritty, and unapologetic, blending dark humor with brutal realism. The dialogue crackles with authenticity, and the characters are flawed and multi-dimensional, making them fascinating to follow. Jesse’s internal struggle (torn between his faith, his past, and the chaos unleashed by Genesis) sets the stage for a series that explores themes of morality, power, and redemption.

The story in this comic book kicks off with a shocking and memorable scene that sets the tone for what’s to come: a mix of violence, religious satire, and existential questioning. Ennis doesn’t shy away from controversial subjects, and his portrayal of religion is both critical and thought-provoking. This bold approach can be polarizing, but it’s also part of what makes “Preacher” so compelling (its willingness to confront uncomfortable truths head-on).

While there narrative in this comic book is gripping, some readers might find the pacing a little uneven. The first issue packs a lot of setup (introducing the main characters, the supernatural element, and the tone) sometimes at the expense of deeper emotional investment. However, this is understandable for this comic book of such an ambitious series. It leaves enough intrigue to keep me personally hooked and eager to see where the story will go next.

This comic book enhances the experience with clean, high-quality printing and restored artwork, making it a visually satisfying package. However, as a reprint, it doesn’t add new material, so fans already familiar with the series might find it more of a collector’s item than a must-read, while newcomers will find it a great entry point.

I Give This Book 4 / 5