The Maxx #4A (Image Comics 1993) Direct Edition

The Maxx #4A (Image Comics, 1993) Direct Edition is a cornerstone of the early Image era, celebrated for its daring visuals and tightly wound storytelling. This issue pairs Sam Kieth’s unmistakable linework with a storyline that pushes the boundaries of superhero fantasy into gritty, real-world danger.

In this installment, Kieth handles both plot and some dialogue, joined by William Messner-Loebs on additional dialogue, with Kieth also shaping the pencils and teaming with Jim Sinclair on finishes. The result is a cohesive, high-energy script paired with Kieth’s signature art style—a blend that fans come back to for its raw texture and cinematic pace.

Key moment: Maxx intervenes to save Julie and Sarah from carjackers, setting the stage for the book’s ongoing exploration of the thin line between the real world and the surreal dream-worlds that define The Maxx. The issue spans 36 pages, delivering a compact, punchy read that still carries the series’ trademark psychological depth.

• Signature art and finish — Kieth’s distinctive pencils and inks, enhanced by Jim Sinclair’s finishes, create a tactile, gritty look that stands out in indie-comics history.
• Collaborative craft — A rare, creator-driven blend: Kieth on plot and dialogue with Messner-Loebs contributing dialogue, yielding a tightly woven, character-forward narrative.
• High-impact storytelling — A/action-forward sequence where Maxx protects vulnerable characters, then moves into the book’s iconic Land Bites arc, offering a snapshot of the series’ inventive world-building.
• Direct Edition value — An authentic 1993 Direct Edition release from Image Comics, a format that collectors recognize for its place in the era’s distribution history.
• Great for collectors and new readers — Priced at $1.95 at release, this issue is a tangible piece of the early indie superhero wave and a gateway into Kieth’s broader Maxx universe.

Ideal for fans of dark fantasy, psychological storytelling, and bold, painterly artwork, The Maxx #4A offers a vivid entry point into Kieth’s world. It’s a compact, memorable chapter that demonstrates how action, mood, and surreal imagination can coexist on the same page—making it a standout addition to any comics collection.