DC Black Label

DC_Black_Label_Logo

DC Black Label is an imprint of American comic book publisher DC Comics. It was established in 2018 to publish mature readers content that is outside the continuity of the DC Universe. The imprint allows writers and artists to explore darker and more complex themes without the constraints of the main DC continuity.

History[edit | edit source]

DC Black Label was announced in March 2018 as a way to give creators the freedom to tell stories that are more mature and sophisticated. The imprint was designed to attract both new and established talent to create standalone stories featuring DC's iconic characters. The first title released under the DC Black Label imprint was Batman: Damned, written by Brian Azzarello and illustrated by Lee Bermejo.

Notable Titles[edit | edit source]

Some of the notable titles published under the DC Black Label imprint include:

Batman: Damned
Superman: Year One by Frank Miller and John Romita Jr.
Wonder Woman: Dead Earth by Daniel Warren Johnson
Harleen by Stjepan Šejić
The Question: The Deaths of Vic Sage by Jeff Lemire, Denys Cowan, and Bill Sienkiewicz

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

DC Black Label titles are known for their high production values, including premium paper stock and larger trim sizes. The stories often explore mature themes such as violence, sexuality, and psychological depth, making them suitable for an adult audience. The imprint also allows for more creative freedom, enabling writers and artists to reinterpret classic characters and storylines in new and innovative ways.

Impact[edit | edit source]

The launch of DC Black Label has been met with both critical acclaim and controversy. Batman: Damned garnered significant attention for its mature content, leading to discussions about the boundaries of mainstream comic book publishing. Despite some controversies, the imprint has been praised for its high-quality storytelling and artistic innovation.