For fans of thoughtful, character-driven comics, the return of Concrete
is a welcome sign. Dark Horse Comics announced today, , that the series, created by Paul Chadwick, will be returning in a new miniseries. This marks the first Concrete
comic since 2012 and coincides with the 40th anniversary of the character’s debut.
Concrete first appeared in Dark Horse Presents #1 in and quickly gained a reputation for its unique approach to the superhero genre. The premise is decidedly unconventional: a normal man, Ron Lithgow, has his brain transplanted into a massive, stone body by extraterrestrial beings. Following his escape, he attempts to navigate a world not built for someone of his… composition.
What sets Concrete apart, however, isn’t the science fiction element itself, but rather how Chadwick treats it. Unlike many superhero narratives focused on grand battles and world-saving feats, Concrete grounds itself in realism. As noted by CBR, the series is a meditation on existence, on living a meaningful life, and on living a life apart from a modern world steeped in uncertainty, and chaos.
The challenges Concrete faces are often deeply personal and surprisingly mundane, given his extraordinary physicality. He grapples with the practicalities of existing as a ten-ton stone man – breaking objects simply by sitting on them, the physics of momentum when traveling in a car – and the emotional toll of being fundamentally different.
Chadwick’s storytelling avoids the tropes of traditional superhero comics. There are no elaborate supervillain schemes or city-destroying conflicts. Instead, the focus is on Concrete’s attempts to integrate into society, to find purpose, and to understand his own existence. He’s been depicted taking on odd jobs, like helping out on a family farm, and engaging in activities that test the limits of his abilities, such as climbing Mount Everest. He’s even been involved in political and ecological activism, and at one point, considered becoming the spokesperson for a campaign advocating voluntary population reduction.
The character’s internal life is also a significant component of the series. According to Superhero Wiki, Concrete is an artist at heart, collecting paintings of female nudes. He’s acutely aware of his lack of sexual organs, a source of embarrassment and occasional ridicule. This willingness to explore such personal and often uncomfortable themes is a hallmark of Chadwick’s work.
Dark Horse Comics has a long history with Concrete, having first published the ten-issue series in . The character has since appeared in numerous installments of Dark Horse Presents and several mini-series, including Think Like A Mountain
and The Killer Smile
. The publisher’s recent announcement, alongside news of other upcoming projects like a new He-Man and the Masters of the Universe comic and a partnership with Terry Moore’s Abstract Studio, signals a renewed focus on creator-owned properties and a commitment to diverse storytelling.
The return of Concrete is particularly noteworthy given the current landscape of the comic book industry. While mainstream publishers often prioritize large-scale crossover events and interconnected universes, Chadwick’s work offers a refreshing alternative – a quiet, introspective exploration of what it means to be human, even when inhabiting a decidedly inhuman form. The series’ enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with readers on a deeply emotional level, prompting reflection on themes of identity, purpose, and the challenges of navigating a complex world.
Details regarding the new miniseries – including the creative team, release date, and story arc – have not yet been released. However, the announcement has already generated considerable excitement among fans of the character and those seeking a more nuanced and thought-provoking comic book experience. The 40th anniversary celebration promises a renewed spotlight on a truly unique and underappreciated gem of the indie comics scene.
Dark Horse Comics’ recent activity, as highlighted on their website, demonstrates a broader strategy of expanding their offerings and collaborating with established creators. The announcement of the Concrete return alongside other projects suggests a vibrant period for the publisher, and a continued dedication to bringing diverse and compelling stories to comic book readers.
