Genre: Urban Fantasy | Writer: Bill Willingham | Release Date: 2002
Publisher: Vertigo, DC Comics, DC Black Label
Fables follows fairy tale characters exiled from their magical Homelands by a mysterious conqueror. Hiding in modern-day New York as “Fables,” they struggle to maintain order, face internal conflicts, and eventually confront the enemy who destroyed their worlds.
Writing
Fables, written by Bill Willingham and published under DC Comics’ Vertigo imprint, is a modern classic in comic storytelling. The series is set in contemporary New York, where characters from folklore and fairy tales—collectively known as Fables—have taken refuge after being exiled from their magical Homelands by a mysterious tyrant known only as the Adversary. The Fables now live secretly among us in a hidden enclave called Fabletown.
The narrative primarily follows Bigby Wolf (yes, the Big Bad Wolf), who now serves as sheriff, and Snow White, the no-nonsense deputy mayor. Together, they attempt to maintain order among a cast of eccentric and often volatile fairy tale refugees. As the series progresses, what begins as noir-tinged detective fiction unfolds into a grand, sweeping epic filled with political intrigue, war, redemption, tragedy, and even romance.
Willingham’s storytelling is both innovative and multifaceted. There are sprawling subplots, clever reinterpretations of familiar tales, and a rhythm that keeps the reader constantly engaged. The writing balances a sharp sense of humor with emotional depth and occasional horror, making every volume feel like its own little reinvention. Characters like Boy Blue, Prince Charming, Rose Red, and Flycatcher aren't just there for background—they evolve, break expectations, and carry their own arcs with surprising emotional weight.
Themes such as exile, identity, governance, morality, and resistance are explored through nuanced social and political commentary that never feels forced. Willingham breathes new life into age-old stories, offering modernized portrayals without losing the spirit of the originals. Simply put, Fables is storytelling alchemy: bold, rich, and unforgettable.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Art Style
The visual identity of Fables is as compelling as its narrative, thanks to the collaborative talents of artists like Mark Buckingham and cover artist James Jean. While the artistic team changes at times, Mark Buckingham’s contributions are especially noteworthy for creating a consistent visual tone that keeps the vast and evolving narrative grounded.
The panel work in Fables is clean and easy to follow, with smart layouts that contribute to the flow of storytelling rather than detract from it. There’s an elegant cohesion between the writing and the art—even with shifts in style—that helps preserve immersion. Buckingham’s grounded character designs allow for the more fantastical elements to stand out without overwhelming the reader, and the recurring decorative border elements enhance the fairy tale aesthetic without distracting from the main panels.
The color palette shifts appropriately with the tone of each arc: vibrant when lighthearted, muted during moments of tragedy or war, and richly symbolic when needed. Facial expressions and body language are handled well, making emotional beats hit harder. The contrast between magical and mundane settings—say, the sleek urban interiors of Fabletown versus the war-torn Homelands—is always visually distinct and effective.
Beyond Mark Buckingham’s signature style, Fables owes much of its visual richness to a diverse lineup of contributing artists. Lan Medina, who illustrated the first arc, Legends in Exile, brought a grounded realism that helped establish the noir tone early on. Steve Leialoha, frequently working as an inker, also stepped in as penciler, lending a looser, expressive touch. Craig Hamilton and Bryan Talbot contributed to flashback and mythic arcs, enhancing the fantasy elements with more ornate and surreal designs. P. Craig Russell and Mike Allred, known for their distinct stylizations, delivered unique one-shot issues with dreamlike aesthetics and bold lines. Linda Medley, creator of Castle Waiting, brought a whimsical yet detailed charm that fit fairy tale interludes well. Reception to these rotating artists has been largely positive, as each brought fresh visual tone without straying too far from the core aesthetic, enhancing the series’ expansive, multi-genre narrative.
While some readers may find the inconsistency between artists mildly disruptive, especially across longer volumes, it rarely takes away from the experience. The visual storytelling complements Willingham’s writing beautifully, making for a holistic experience that feels both epic and personal.
Rating: 5 out of 5
The Verdict
In the end, Fables is an ambitious, genre-bending saga that redefines what comic storytelling can achieve. Bill Willingham’s writing is masterful, blending fantasy, politics, and emotional drama with clever wit and depth. While the artwork occasionally varies depending on the illustrator, the core vision remains strong and immersive. If you're a fan of reimagined mythology, slow-burning character arcs, and rich world-building, Fables is a must-read. Highly recommended for readers of fantasy, mystery, and fans of series like Once Upon a Time—but grittier, sharper, and better. Fables earns a 5 out of 5.
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