‘There’s no one left to protect us! The monsters have won.’ All because of an ancient ritual by a Black Metal band called The Sons Of Balaur which summoned the darkest of spirits – Balaur- from whatever exile he had been in. There follows a quest for salvation and survival by the only man that can be relied upon. Alberic Van Helsing an addict, murderer and survivor with a fast diminishing optimism in his faith and self-control.

Balaur and his army of flesh eating, blood drinking zombies have taken over the earth. The Vaticans last line of defence – The Congregation, which is led by Balaur’s sister Athena – is all but destroyed and they enlist Van Helsing to rid the earth of this foul plague, not that he is volunteering.

Van Helsing ventures through Europe, Norway and Egypt where he meets all manner of nasties all wanting to do him harm in the most ingenious and brutal of ways. Interestingly he meets an Egyptian Queen who, comes from South London judging by her coarse accent, bad attitude and foul mouth. This is not for the faint hearted. Imagine living in a post- apocalyptic world where zombies rule and it’s all set to a Black Metal soundtrack. Sounds like life now!

This is an animated comic in black and white but the blood is vivid red making it really stand out.

Van Helsing is voiced by Dark Angel’s David Vincent who is perfect as is Jill Janus from Huntress as the voice of Athena and Dani Filth voices the mighty Balaur.

I thoroughly enjoyed the film which is very much a departure for me and it’s only an hour long. The soundtrack, by The Sons Of Balaur, is available soon too. There was loads more involved in the story but I don’t want to ruin it for you. Does Van Helsing survive, does Athena, does Balaur? This is a Black Metal comic….so anything could happen in the nastiest way. Check press for details of local showings.

Highlights. Excellent artwork and soundtrack.

Rating  8/10       By Smudge.