Georges Bess "Notre Dame de Paris": classic drama in pictures

      Let me remind you that French comic Georges Besse is primarily known in Russia as a co-author of the iconic figure of the industry, Alexander Jodorovsky ("Metabarony", 18+). Their co-authorship began in 1986, when they wrote fabulous stories for the magazine "Le Journal de Mickey". Then we moved on to the cycle "The White Lama" (18+), dedicated to Tibet. The latest joint project was the series about criminals "Juan Solo" (it was not officially released in the Russian Federation, only amateur translations, so there is no age limit).

      But Georges Bess has some very interesting solo projects in his pocket. For example, graphic adaptations of cult novels - "Frankenstein" (16+) by Mary Shelley and "Dracula" (16+) by Bram Stoker. So if you've read both of these comics, you might have an idea of Bess' style. This is a black-and-white stylization of English Gothic, with pretentiously nightmarish and frightening monsters. Even the black-and-white style itself sets up a certain perception of the material — through highlighting human vices and flaws.

      The flaws are most noticeable in the current story, where there are no fantastic monsters at all, and the terrible hunchback Quasimodo turns out to be a compassionate and sympathetic person. It is he who, like the beautiful gypsy Esmeralda, whom he is trying to protect, will have to face the monstrous injustice of the world around him. The drama is enhanced by Bess' black-and-white aesthetic, which twists the perception of tragedy to the fullest. Overall, it's an interesting adaptation and a reason to remember a famous story.

      Georges Bess "Notre Dame de Paris" (18+, 2025). Our rating: 5/5.