Ultimate Fantastic Four #23

Ultimate Fantastic Four #23, released in 2005, serves as the first installment of the acclaimed 'Crossover' story arc. Written by Mark Millar with interior art by Greg Land, the issue was produced during a period when Marvel Comics was aggressively modernizing its classic roster through the Ultimate imprint. The narrative was designed to bridge the gap between the Ultimate universe and the Marvel Zombies reality, establishing a dark, high-stakes premise that contrasted sharply with the more traditional heroic tone of the main Fantastic Four series.

The issue is noted for its introduction of the zombie versions of Marvel icons, a concept that evolved into a massive commercial and cultural phenomenon for the publisher. Greg Land's illustrative style, characterized by highly polished, realistic character figures, was intended to anchor the surreal and gruesome nature of the zombie infestation within a recognizable framework. Upon release, the issue received significant attention from readers for its visceral departure from standard superhero storytelling, effectively launching a long-running sub-franchise within the Marvel catalog.