Hellblazer #155

Published in December 2000, Hellblazer #155 serves as the concluding chapter of the 'Haunted' story arc, written by Warren Ellis with artwork by Marcelo Frusin. This issue emerged during a pivotal era for the Vertigo imprint, as creators moved away from the more experimental, psychedelic roots of the 1980s toward a grounded, visceral approach to horror. The story centers on John Constantine grappling with the trauma of a previous haunting, pushing the character into a bleak, psychological confrontation that defines the series' commitment to exploring the darker aspects of the human experience.

The visual identity of this issue is heavily influenced by Marcelo Frusin's gritty, noir-inspired style, which provided a stark contrast to previous artistic interpretations of the character. By emphasizing shadow, rough textures, and a weary, unglamorous depiction of Constantine, Frusin sought to strip away the superhero elements often encroaching on the genre, aligning the aesthetic with the grim, urban decay central to the narrative. Upon release, the arc was generally well-received for its uncompromising tone and its role in cementing the modern iteration of the character as a cynical survivor rather than a traditional magical protagonist.