The Maxx is an American comic book series created by Sam Kieth and published by Image Comics. It debuted in 1993 and ran for 35 issues, concluding in 1998. The series is known for its distinctive, expressionistic art style and its exploration of psychological trauma, identity, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.
The story follows the titular Maxx, a large, purple-clad homeless superhero who lives in a cardboard box and protects a social worker named Julie Winters. Unbeknownst to Julie, she and the Maxx share a psychic connection to an alternate reality called the Outback, a primordial dreamscape inspired by the Australian wilderness. In the Outback, Julie is the all-powerful Leopard Queen, and the Maxx is her protector. The series delves into their shared past traumas, particularly a violent incident that links them, and introduces Mr. Gone, a serial killer with his own connection to the Outback.
The Maxx was part of the early wave of creator-owned Image Comics titles and stood out for its introspective, surreal narrative rather than traditional superhero action. Sam Kieth's art, heavily influenced by Bill Sienkiewicz and underground comics, gave the book a raw, painterly quality. The series gained a cult following and is considered a landmark of 1990s alternative comics.
