The Phantom – L’Ombre Qui Marche

The Phantom – L’Ombre Qui Marche (which translates to The Phantom – The Ghost Who Walks) is a comic book series published by Editions Dante in France commencing in 2009. The series contains three comic books focusing on reprinting modern stories originally published by the American company Moonstone Books.

Founded with a mission to bring modern American comic book storytelling to the French market, Editions Dante (also known as Dante Production) is a specialized publisher based in France, currently operating out of Serre-les-Sapins. The company gained significant recognition among European collectors in 2009 for its high-quality hardcover series, The Phantom: L’Ombre Qui Marche…. This series was a major milestone for French fans, as it provided the first major translations of the contemporary Moonstone Books era, featuring acclaimed creators like Chuck Dixon, Graham Nolan, and Ben Raab, while utilizing striking cover art from artists like Doug Klauba and Ruben Procopio.

Beyond its initial 2009 run, the publisher has experienced a creative resurgence in the 2020s, significantly expanding its catalog to include more Golden Age and Silver Age material. Recent projects include the publication of The Phantom: L’Intégrale (The Complete Collection), which pivots from modern reprints to meticulously restored versions of the classic Charlton Comics era. These newer volumes often showcase the legendary artwork of Jim Aparo and Don Newton, catering to a nostalgic demographic of readers who value the historical evolution of the character’s 90-year legacy.

Today, Editions Dante has diversified its offerings to include various pop culture collectibles, ranging from limited-edition lithographs and thematic posters to Omnibus editions of other vintage properties like Miss Fury, Doc Savage, and Samson. The publisher is known for its online Dante Store, which serves as a hub for enthusiasts of the Golden Age of comics, horror, and science fiction. By blending high-end production values with a deep respect for comic book history, Editions Dante remains a pivotal name for international collectors seeking premium French editions of iconic masked heroes.

Volume 1 was published in 2009, containing a hard cover with 174 full color pages measuring 18.5cm x 26.5cm. Volume 1 contains six specific chapters:

  • Damnation Game (Parts 1 & 2) – Written by Rafael Nieves, illustrated by Jerry DeCaire.
  • Stones of Blood (Parts 1 & 2) – Written by Ben Raab, illustrated by Pat Quinn.
  • Curse of the Phantom (Parts 1 & 2) – Written by Ben Raab, illustrated by Nick Derington.

The striking cover for Volume 1 was illustrated by Doug Klauba. It depicts the 21st Phantom in a tropical rainstorm, dual-wielding his signature M1911 pistols. The front and back covers can be seen below.

Volume 2 was published in 2022, containing a hard cover with 158 full color pages measuring 22cm x 30cm. Volume 2 contains six specific chapters:

  • Enitan – Written by Mike Bullock, illustrated by Silvestre Szilagyi and Sergio Mulko.
  • End War (Parts 1, 2 & 3) – Written by Mike Bullock, illustrated by David Michelinie and Silvestre Szilagyi.
  • Return of The Eastern Dark (Parts 1 & 2) – Written by Mike Bullock, illustrated by Silvestre Szilagyi.

The artwork for this volume is by Doug Klauba. It features a classic, muscular rendition of the Phantom against a misty, blue-toned backdrop. The front and back covers can be seen below.

Volume 3 was published in 2024, containing a hard cover with 144 full color pages measuring 22cm x 30cm. Volume 3 contains six specific chapters:

  • The Aviatrix (Parts 1 & 2) – Written by Ben Raab, illustrated by Pat Quinn and Ken Wheaton.
  • Slave Trade (Parts 1 & 2) – Written by Chuck Dixon, illustrated by Eric Johnson and Peter Guzman.
  • Nanamaru – Written by Ben Raab, illustrated by Rich Burchett.
  • Tiger’s Blood (Part 1) – Written by Mike Bullock, illustrated by Gabriel Rearte.

The front cover illustration on this volume is by Rick Leonardi, Terry Austin and Bob Pedroza, showing the Phantom from behind, overlooking a city under fire, specifically Mawitaan, a setting from the storylines within. The front and back covers can be seen below.