“The Legend of Kingdom Come” is Born
By Wes Hessel
The rise of realism in the progression from comic books to graphic novels, through into the 21st century superhero films, can be traced back to the 1996 ground-breaking masterpiece series by Chicago native Alex Ross and Mark Waid, “Kingdom Come”. A recently debuted documentary masterwork “The Legend of Kingdom Come”, produced by Ross’ longtime business partner Sal Abbinanti, and directed by the accomplished Chicago filmmaker Remsy Atassi, chronicles the wide-reaching influences of this graphic novel set, beginning with the more complex and detailed comic art in the late 90’s on through the look and feel of the DCU and MCU, amongst others, as we know them today.
The film starts with the background of the inspiration of Flash Gordon, Superman’s debut in 1937, and comic books as a (then) new medium, which began their own major influence in pop art and culture. Along the way are such touchstones as the movie serials of the 1950’s, the 60’s “Batman” TV series; the first of the modern-era films, Christopher Reeves’ 1978 “Superman”, and the more recent superhero movie incarnations. Then the high art direction of Ross’ work is featured, up through the gallery quality pieces he creates today, along with his trademark style continued comic painting. Interwoven are interviews with current industry writers, painters, and producers, including Todd McFarlane, the Benson sisters (Julie and Shawna), Paul Dini, and others on the repercussions and results “Kingdom Come” made in the industry. Humor adds fun to the journey along the way.
Ultimately, the movie is part love letter, part historical document of possibly the most influential comic series of all time, with actual “Kingdom Come” specific elements showing up elsewhere, such as Wonder Woman’s gold armor, which appeared in “Wonder Woman 1984”, and the signature unique Superman “S”, said to be used in the upcoming 2025 “Superman” reboot. It details how so much of modern pop culture in some form or other owes its roots to a four volume graphic novel series from the mid-90’s. Thank you, Alex Ross and Mark Waid for your seminal set which opened up so much for then, now, and generations to come; thank you, Sal Abbinanti and Remsy Atassi for telling the needed-to-be-seen story about the watershed significance of this comic classic. To watch this incredible film, please go to www.legendofkingdomcome.com.
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