Writer: James Tynion IV

Artist and Colorist: Joshua Hixson

Letterer: Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou

Publisher: Image Comics

The Deviant unfolds as a chilling psychological horror mystery. It begins in 1972 Milwaukee, where a masked Santa—dubbed the “Deviant Killer”—slaughters young men. Fifty years later, writer Michael interviews Randall Olsen, the imprisoned killer still asserting his innocence, while a copycat killer emerges as Christmas nears again
-Image Comics

Tynion brings significant emotional weight to the story by weaving themes of queer identity, trauma, and media’s influence on self-perception—especially among young gay men.

Early Issues & Pacing

Issue #1 is very impressive with it’s visceral horror and psychological depth. Tynion’s dialogue—especially in Michael’s interview with Randall—is intense and unnerving, probing the connection between male sexuality and violence.

Issue #2 delivers a tense cliffhanger: Michael’s blood-stained driver’s license connects him to a new murder, raising suspicions that hit home, setting up mystery and unease.

Issue #3 explores moral ambiguity brilliantly. Characters are crafted with believable—and flawed—motivations, making it hard to categorize heroes or villains.

Issue #4 continues a “slow burn” approach, carefully peeling back narrative layers. A quote I read really sums this issue up well, “Josh Hixson’s art … enhances the narrative … building tension… James Tynion IV at his most personal”.

Final Thoughts

Strengths:

Powerful blend of horror, queer themes, and psychological depth. With standout writing from Tynion—taut, layered, and emotionally raw. It is striking, atmosphere-rich visuals by Hixson—chaotic but beautiful. It also captures cultural commentary about fascination with violence and identity.

Challenges:

Pacing is deliberately slow; some may find it too drawn-out. In the final issue some may find it ambiguous or lacking closure, especially regarding the original killer’s fate.

Verdict

The Deviant is an ambitious horror-mystery that stands out for its thematic depth, stylish execution, and bold queer lens. If you’re comfortable with graphic horror and enjoy stories that provoke more questions than they answer, it’s highly rewarding. Volume 1 is a gripping launch; even if the ending divides opinion, the ride is memorable.