HYDE STREET #8 – New Comic Review

Hyde Street #8, by Image Comics on 8/20/25, sees Mr. X-Ray facing the consequences of his novelties while Pranky seeks his help after being transformed into a Wolfboy.

Credits:

• Writer: Geoff Johns
• Artist: Ivan Reis, Danny Miki
• Colorist: Brad Anderson
• Letterer: Rob Leigh
• Cover Artist: Ivan Reis, Danny Miki, Brad Anderson (cover A)
• Publisher: Image Comics
• Release Date: August 20, 2025
• Comic Rating: Teen
• Cover Price: $3.99
• Page Count: 36
• Format: Single Issue

Covers:

Analysis of HYDE STREET #8:

First Impressions:

This issue grabs you right away with its dark atmosphere and wicked sense of wit. The concept of Hyde Street drawing in the damned promises a compelling read when “Residents” form alliances and scheme to outdo each other.

Plot Analysis:

Hyde Street is introduced as a place where the wicked and cruel are drawn, a crossroads of morality and madness leading to something worse than death. Mr. Abraham, burdened by a terrible act, seeks to bury his past. He consults a psychic on Hyde Street, revealing his involvement in embezzlement, lies, and ruined lives. The psychic warns that terrible deeds never stay buried; instead, they rise, hungry.

The psychic attempts to use cards to see what the rising past desires, but the cards explode, and Mr. Abraham flees in terror. The psychic attempts to stop him, declaring he cannot outrun fate and there is “no escape from Hyde Str…”. As Mr. Abraham runs, an image of a card labeled “THE BUTCHER” with a skull and knife appears, stating, “I’m a monster!” Simultaneously, the psychic’s appearance transforms into a monstrous, decaying figure, reaffirming that “there is no escape from Hyde Street.”

Pranky confronts Mr. X-Ray, transformed into a wolf-like creature, demanding to know what Mr. X-Ray did to him. Mr. X-Ray denies direct involvement, stating Pranky broke into his office, stole, and put on the rubber mask himself. He explains the mask unmasks the monster inside, permanently.

Mr. X-Ray states that if Pranky had asked for the mask, he would have warned him, but he wouldn’t have given it to him anyway. He suggests Pranky promise to stay out of his affairs for a chance to revert. Pranky refuses, asserting he is not staying out of anything, leading Mr. X-Ray to tell him to enjoy being a wolf-boy. Ultimately, Pranky is forced to agree. Unfortunately, Mr. X-Ray can’t get the mask off, prompting a visit to Hyde Street’s next enigmatic soul collector – Dr. Ego.

Story

The narrative immediately establishes Hyde Street as a place of dark consequences for moral failings. The dialogue between the psychic and Mr. Abraham quickly reveals his past misdeeds and the inescapable nature of his retribution. The exchange between Pranky and Mr. X-Ray is sharp, highlighting their adversarial relationship and Mr. X-Ray’s cunning. The exposition feels well integrated through character interactions rather than heavy narration.

Art

The artwork effectively conveys a grim and foreboding atmosphere. The transformation of the psychic is visually impactful, emphasizing the horror of Hyde Street. Character designs are distinct, particularly the monstrous forms of the psychic and Pranky. The action sequences, though brief, are dynamic, especially the explosion of cards. The use of shadows and muted colors enhances the overall eerie mood.

Characters

Mr. Abraham is presented as a desperate man facing the repercussions of his actions. The psychic, initially a calm figure, quickly becomes a terrifying manifestation of Hyde Street’s judgment. Pranky, in his transformed state, displays a mix of anger and desperation, revealing a vulnerability not seen before. Mr. X-Ray remains an enigmatic and manipulative figure, playing with Pranky’s predicament. The final introduction of Dr. Ego as a sadistic surgeon is an intriguing addition to an already eclectic cast.

Positives

The comic truly shines in its ability to immediately draw the reader into a sinister world where past actions have dire consequences. The opening sequence with Mr. Abraham vividly illustrates the inescapable nature of fate on Hyde Street. The transformation of the psychic is a standout moment, horrifying and impactful, visually cementing the comic’s dark tone. Mr. X-Ray’s cool, calculating demeanor contrasting with Pranky’s frantic, monstrous state provides excellent character dynamics, creating a compelling central conflict.

Negatives

The story moves at such a brisk pace that some elements feel underdeveloped. Mr. Abraham’s quick exit leaves his subplot feeling unresolved, almost like a disjointed introduction to the main event. While the transformations are visually impressive, the exact mechanics of how Mr. X-Ray’s novelties work could benefit from more clarity, leaving some questions unanswered about the specifics of the curse.

Art Samples:

Final Thoughts:

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HYDE STREET #8 delivers a solid, if swiftly paced, dive into the unsettling world of Hyde Street. While some narrative threads could use a bit more unraveling, the potent visuals and sharp character interactions make it a darkly entertaining read. It certainly leaves you wanting to know just how much more havoc Mr. X-Ray’s novelties will wreak.

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