Deadman: Exorcism #1

Deadman: Exorcism #1, published in 1992, represents a distinct shift in tone for the DC Comics character Boston Brand, who had previously been a staple of team-up anthologies and supernatural horror stories. Written by Mike Baron and illustrated by Kelley Jones, this prestige format miniseries was conceived as a mature-themed exploration of the character's internal struggle with his ghostly existence, moving away from his traditional superhero tropes toward a darker, more psychological narrative.

The visual identity of this issue is heavily defined by Kelley Jones, whose signature gothic aesthetic—characterized by elongated anatomy and heavy, atmospheric shadows—perfectly complemented the story's grim subject matter. Released during a period when the comic industry was embracing more experimental, creator-driven titles under the Vertigo-adjacent creative climate of the early 90s, the series was well-received by fans of horror-influenced comics for its moody, unconventional departure from the standard DC universe house style.