The Last Christmas #3

This Image series from 2006 takes holiday mythology somewhere darker and more compelling, and issue #3's cover by Rick Remender sets the mood perfectly — a battle-worn Santa Claus trudging grimly through a blizzard, coat battered and expression haunted, while a snow-dusted figure lies slumped in the background. Writers Gerry Duggan and Brian Posehn, with artist Rick Remender and inker Hilary Barta bringing it to life inside, have crafted a post-apocalyptic spin on St. Nick that feels equal parts grim and strangely heartfelt. "Chapter Three: Seasons Beatings" promises exactly the kind of irreverent, hard-edged storytelling that makes The Last Christmas such a refreshing detour from the usual holiday fare.