Crossed Comics: 5 Years Later - What's The Status?
Hey guys! If you're anything like me, you've probably been captivated (and maybe a little disturbed) by the Crossed comic series. This ultra-violent, post-apocalyptic world created by Garth Ennis has a way of sticking with you. But if you're wondering about the current status of the Crossed universe five years after its initial surge in popularity, you've come to the right place. Let's dive in and explore what's been happening in the world of Crossed!
A Look Back at the Initial Crossed Series
Before we get into the present, let's rewind a bit. Crossed, created by the brilliant and twisted mind of Garth Ennis and illustrated by Jacen Burrows, debuted in 2008. The premise? A horrifying pandemic sweeps the globe, turning people into homicidal maniacs driven by their most depraved desires. Marked by a distinctive cross-shaped rash on their faces, these “Crossed” individuals engage in unspeakable acts of violence and depravity. It’s not for the faint of heart, that’s for sure! The original series immediately grabbed attention due to its unflinching portrayal of human cruelty and the breakdown of society. Ennis's writing didn't shy away from the darkest aspects of human nature, making Crossed a truly unique and disturbing read. The initial storyline explored the struggles of a group of survivors as they navigated this terrifying new world, constantly facing threats from both the Crossed and the remnants of a collapsing society. The artwork, with its graphic depictions of violence and horror, perfectly complemented the story's bleak tone. What made Crossed so compelling was its raw and unfiltered look at humanity stripped bare. It forced readers to confront uncomfortable questions about morality, survival, and the limits of human depravity. The series quickly gained a dedicated following, drawn in by its shocking content and the challenging themes it explored. It's a series that stays with you, prompting discussions and debates long after you've turned the final page. The success of the initial series paved the way for further expansions of the Crossed universe, with new writers and artists bringing their own perspectives to this horrific world. This expansion has allowed the Crossed storyline to evolve and explore different facets of the post-apocalyptic setting, keeping the series fresh and engaging for its fanbase.
The Expansion of the Crossed Universe
Following the success of the original Crossed series, the universe expanded with several sequels and spin-offs. This wasn’t just a cash grab, guys; it allowed other talented writers and artists to play in this messed-up sandbox. Crossed: Family Values, written by David Lapham, took the horror to another level by focusing on the twisted dynamics within a family of Crossed individuals. This series delved into the psychological aspects of the infection, exploring how pre-existing family issues and dysfunctions were amplified by the Crossed's unrestrained desires. The result was a disturbing and compelling narrative that challenged readers to confront the darkest aspects of human relationships. Lapham's storytelling style brought a unique flavor to the Crossed universe, emphasizing the emotional and psychological impact of the apocalypse on its characters. Crossed: Badlands became an ongoing anthology series, featuring different creative teams and storylines, which offered a diverse range of perspectives on the Crossed world. This approach allowed for the exploration of various themes and settings within the universe, preventing the series from becoming stale. Each arc in Crossed: Badlands presented a self-contained narrative, allowing new readers to jump in without feeling overwhelmed by the overarching storyline. The anthology format also provided opportunities for emerging writers and artists to showcase their talent, contributing to the vibrant and evolving nature of the Crossed universe. Another notable addition was Crossed +100, written by Alan Moore, the legendary comic book writer behind Watchmen and V for Vendetta. Crossed +100 jumped the timeline 100 years into the future, depicting a world where the Crossed infection had significantly altered human society and language. Moore's take on the Crossed universe was highly ambitious, incorporating elements of science fiction and social commentary. The series explored how language and culture would evolve in a world dominated by the Crossed, creating a unique and thought-provoking reading experience. Crossed +100 demonstrated the versatility of the Crossed concept, proving that it could be adapted to different genres and storytelling styles. These expansions showed the staying power of the Crossed concept and its ability to attract top-tier talent in the comic book industry. The willingness of creators like Alan Moore to contribute to the Crossed universe speaks volumes about its artistic merit and the potential for compelling storytelling within its dark confines. The expanded universe has allowed fans to delve deeper into the world of Crossed, exploring different aspects of the infection, its impact on society, and the human capacity for both cruelty and resilience.
Where is Crossed Now? The Current Status
So, where does that leave us today? Well, while there aren't any ongoing Crossed series currently being published, the Crossed universe hasn't been entirely forgotten. Avatar Press, the publisher behind Crossed, has released collected editions and reprints, ensuring that the existing material remains available to fans. This means that even though there aren't new issues hitting the shelves, the Crossed stories are still out there for anyone who wants to dive in. The collected editions are a great way for new readers to experience the entire Crossed saga from beginning to end, without having to hunt down individual issues. They also offer a convenient way for long-time fans to revisit their favorite storylines and characters. Reprints of older issues help to keep the series accessible and prevent prices from skyrocketing in the secondary market. This ensures that fans can continue to enjoy the Crossed universe without breaking the bank. While there are no current announcements for new Crossed comics, the possibility of a revival always looms. The comic book industry is known for bringing back beloved series and characters, and Crossed's unique and disturbing premise could certainly lend itself to future stories. The Crossed universe has a rich and complex mythology that could be further explored in new narratives. There are countless stories to be told about the survivors, the Crossed themselves, and the world they inhabit. A revival of the Crossed series could potentially attract a new generation of readers while also satisfying the existing fanbase. The fact that the Crossed comics continue to be available in collected editions and reprints suggests that there is still a demand for the series. This demand could eventually lead to a renewed interest in creating new Crossed stories. In addition to comics, there have been talks and rumors about potential adaptations of Crossed into other media, such as film or television. The graphic nature of the series could present challenges for adaptation, but the core themes and compelling characters could translate well to the screen. A Crossed adaptation could potentially introduce the series to a wider audience and spark renewed interest in the comic books. The visual horror of Crossed could be particularly impactful in a film or television format, provided that the adaptation remains true to the spirit of the source material. The potential for Crossed to be adapted into other media suggests that the series still has a strong cultural relevance and appeal. So, while we might not be seeing new Crossed comics on a monthly basis, the universe is far from dead. The existing stories continue to resonate with readers, and the possibility of future developments remains open. Keep your eyes peeled, guys, because you never know when the Crossed might rise again.
The Enduring Appeal of Crossed
What is it about Crossed that keeps fans coming back, even after all these years? I think a big part of it is the series' unflinching look at the darker side of human nature. It's not just about zombies or monsters; it's about what people are capable of when societal norms break down. This exploration of human depravity is both disturbing and fascinating, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the world around them. Crossed doesn't shy away from depicting graphic violence and sexual depravity, which can be shocking and unsettling. However, it's this unflinching approach that sets Crossed apart from other post-apocalyptic stories. The series doesn't sugarcoat the horrors of the Crossed infection, instead presenting a raw and visceral depiction of a world gone mad. This realism, however disturbing, is one of the key factors in Crossed's enduring appeal. The series also raises thought-provoking questions about morality, survival, and the nature of good and evil. In a world where the Crossed have destroyed civilization, what does it mean to be human? How far would you go to survive? These are the kinds of questions that Crossed forces its readers to grapple with. The characters in Crossed are often faced with impossible choices, and their decisions have profound consequences. This moral ambiguity adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it more than just a simple horror story. The characters are forced to confront their own limitations and the limitations of their morality, leading to compelling and often tragic arcs. The series also explores the dynamics of group survival in a post-apocalyptic world. The survivors in Crossed must learn to work together, even when they have conflicting personalities and motivations. This emphasis on group dynamics adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the challenges of building a new society in the wake of the apocalypse. The relationships between the survivors are often strained and fraught with tension, reflecting the difficult circumstances they face. Ultimately, Crossed is a challenging and rewarding read for those who can stomach its graphic content. It's a series that stays with you long after you've finished reading, prompting reflection and discussion. The series' willingness to push boundaries and explore uncomfortable themes is what makes it so unique and memorable. The enduring appeal of Crossed lies in its ability to shock, provoke, and challenge its readers, forcing them to confront the darkest aspects of human nature. It's a series that is not for everyone, but for those who appreciate its unique blend of horror and social commentary, it's a truly unforgettable experience.
What the Future Holds
So, what's next for Crossed? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure: the series has left a significant mark on the comic book landscape. Its unflinching portrayal of horror and its exploration of human nature have resonated with readers, and the Crossed universe continues to be discussed and debated. Whether we see new comics, adaptations in other media, or simply a continued appreciation for the existing stories, Crossed is a series that won't be forgotten anytime soon. I’m personally hoping for a new series or even a movie adaptation! Can you imagine how intense that would be? Let's keep our fingers crossed, guys, and maybe one day we'll see the Crossed rise again! The legacy of Crossed extends beyond its immediate fanbase, influencing other creators and shaping the landscape of horror comics. The series' willingness to push boundaries and explore uncomfortable themes has paved the way for other creators to take risks and challenge conventional storytelling norms. Crossed has also sparked discussions about the limits of violence in media and the ethical responsibilities of creators. The series' graphic content has raised questions about the potential for desensitization and the impact of violent imagery on viewers and readers. These discussions are important for the comic book industry as a whole, helping to promote responsible storytelling and the creation of meaningful narratives. In addition to its impact on the comic book industry, Crossed has also garnered attention from academics and scholars. The series' exploration of social breakdown, human depravity, and the nature of morality has made it a subject of study in various fields, including sociology, psychology, and philosophy. The complex themes and characters in Crossed provide rich material for analysis and interpretation, making it a valuable resource for researchers and students. The academic interest in Crossed further underscores the series' significance and its ability to provoke thought and discussion. The enduring legacy of Crossed is a testament to its unique and disturbing vision. The series has challenged readers to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the world around them, and its impact will continue to be felt for years to come. Whether through new stories, adaptations, or ongoing discussions, Crossed will remain a significant force in the world of horror comics.