The Hellblazer (2016-) #4

The Hellblazer #4 was released in late 2016 as part of DC Comics' Rebirth initiative, which sought to refine and unify the character histories across the publisher's lineup. This issue is a central chapter in the Rebirth-era iteration of John Constantine, following his return to London after his extended tenure in the Justice League Dark and other American-based adventures. The creative team, led by writer Simon Oliver, intended to ground the character in his gritty, occult-noir roots, distancing him from the more overt superhero elements he had encountered in recent years.

The design of the series leans into a stark, atmospheric aesthetic that complements Constantine’s cynical personality and the supernatural underbelly of contemporary London. Moritat provided the illustrative work for this specific issue, utilizing a sharp, angular style that emphasizes shadows and the grime of the urban setting. The release was generally received as a return to form for the character, with critics noting its focus on personal stakes and magical realism over the grand-scale conflict typical of the broader DC Universe.