Stories with the X-factor

With its new-wave graphic design and potent infusion of art deco, film noir and German expressionist motifs, Dean Motter's highly influential Mister X was undoubtedly one of the most stylish comics to emerge from the 1980s. The series was further distinguished by captivating early work from an array of the future stars of alternative comics, including the Hernandez Brothers, Seth (aka Gregory Gallant), Dave McKean, Paul Rivoche and Ty Templeton. Motter's vivid tales of a mysterious architect who strives to prevent a dystopian city that he designed from sending its citizens mad certainly retain their potency 25 years on, while the artwork provides further startling confirmation of what a watershed this was.