Marvel Clears Schedule for Midnight Universe Launch

Marvel's new Midnight Universe isn't just another comic line. On October 7, the publisher is clearing its entire release schedule, dropping only three new books: Midnight X-Men #1, Midnight Fantastic Four #1, and Midnight Spider-Man #1. This isn't just a quirky scheduling move; it's a bold statement, signaling Marvel's absolute commitment to this horror-tinged reimagining of its iconic heroes. Originally set for August, this unique, unified launch strategy speaks volumes.

So, what is the Midnight Universe? Picture your favorite Marvel icons twisted into unsettling new forms. The X-Men aren't fighting for acceptance; they're hungry for blood. The Fantastic Four delve into cosmic terror, unleashing it instead of containing it. Spider-Man's great power leads to something monstrous. This isn't just an alternate reality; it's a deep dive into interconnected lore, crafted by some of Marvel's most acclaimed modern creators.

Jonathan Hickman, known for his ambitious, intricate plots, tackles Midnight X-Men with Matteo Della Fonte. He calls it a project he hasn't been this excited about in a long time. Benjamin Percy, with Kev Walker, brings a “cosmic, Lovecraftian terror” to Midnight Fantastic Four. Percy admits Marvel wouldn't normally let him write the FF because he's “too mean and evil” — a perfect fit for this darker take. Phillip Kennedy Johnson and ScieTronc promise the “longest, most epic series” of Johnson's career with Midnight Spider-Man. Johnson explicitly references H.R. Giger, David Cronenberg, and Junji Ito for his Spider-Man vision, while invoking John Carpenter and Resident Evil for classic villains. This is full-throttle dread, not subtle horror.