Review: POWERS OF X #4: The Introduction Of The Sassiest Sinister

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Jonathon Hickman’s House of X and Powers of X stories are proving to be classics and Powers of X #4 is no exception. Hickman’s dialogue is punchy and sharp, and his story is thorough and detailed. R.B Silva’s linework is equally effective, and his action scenes are visceral and destructive, and Marte Gracia’s colors are stellar as well. It can’t be said enough of what a fantastic job Hickman has done with the X-Men line so far, but my favorite innovation has been the introduction of a sassy Mr. Sinister now to be formally labeled as Sassy Sinister. Anyone with a passing interest in anything X-Men should be reading these series, and Powers of X #4 might be the best one yet.

Powers of X #4 begin with an allied Magneto and Professor Xavier approaching Bar Sinister with the intent of asking for cooperation. After that Xavier tasks his student, Cypher with constructing a Mutant language. Hickman’s introduction to Mister Sinister is perfect. As the masked sentinel removes his helmet, and it is shown that this is a Sinister clone, the irony and humor also come into play.

This sinister clone speaks as a child would with no regard for how others may interpret their words. He insults Magneto’s cape (Big no-no) and then says Xavier cannot enter the bar because he is disabled. Obviously, Mr. Sinister is a villain, so I’m not expecting him to embrace PC culture or common decency, but the forthrightness with which he says this is shocking considering he knows how powerful Xavier is. And of course how Magneto is, as Magneto throws him through the wall.

But this is also a fantastic introduction to the outright insanity of the main Mr. Sinister, aka Sassy Sinister. Not only speak like the first Sinister but even more childlike, but he also treats everything, and everyone is a plaything. When Sassy Sinister orders the execution of his Butler clone because he did not suggest that he have a cape, he does so maniacally. This action works double as it also is a showing of ruthlessness and power. The ending of the Sinister introduction cements his ruthlessness and puts his loyalty into consideration.

If there is one fault to this story, it is the number of things going on, if anything it is merely difficult to keep track of several stories happening in three separate timelines in the same book. Due to this, the scene in the Year 1000 can be a tad jarring. It is also difficult to decipher the intent of this chapter. Is this still the natural evolution of the mutant/human/machine conflict or is this the actual ending of it as the tiny blue alien Librarian is negotiating with the human/machine Phalanx. It’s exceptionally heady and convoluted, so casual readers may be turned off. However, if you have been paying attention, this is the stuff you live for.

R.B Silva, Marte Gracia, and VC’s Clayton Cowles’s combined efforts for the dream art department for Powers of X #4. Silva shows a real talent for luring the reader in with quick small frames only for them to be blown away with gorgeously detailed splash panels. The initial conversation between Sentinel Sinister, Magneto, and Professor X seems like it will just be tense dialogue, but then Silva’s’s detailed action scene shocks the reader into attention. The detail of all the tiny pieces of crystal in the aftermath of Magneto’s throw is fantastic.

A Brief Conversation With The Sassiest Sinister

Gracia’s colors add a nice touch to the comic as he gives each scene its designated color. Sinister’s is purple-red, Cypher’s mission to form the Mutant language is basked in yellow, and the future is a muted blue/gray before it’s climactic finale. These tones set the mood for each of the stories, but his colors in the individual scenes are also successful. And Clayton Cowles’s letters feel weighty. When the sinister clones are dismembering Butler Sinister, the chop in panel looks like it echoes throughout the room.

Readers should know just by following the reviews how monumental Powers of X and House of X have been. Powers of X #4 is further testament to that claim, as even a chapter with little plot advancement where no one died can feel so impactful and memorable. Jonathan Hickman, R.B Silva, Marte Gracia, and Clayton Cowles should all be commended, as this is another fantastic entry in a fantastic run of comics.

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Review: THE FLASH #78 shows off the Terror of the Black Flash

By

Jose "Jody" Cardona

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The Black Flash Lashes Out Against the Forces

The Forces are in danger of collapsing. As the Sage, Strength, and Still Forces continue to make waves on Earth, the Speed Force is beginning to grow weaker. As Barry, Wally and Avery try to figure out what is wrong; the Flash Museum gets a surprising guest: The Black Flash. The speedster of death, however, isn’t here to claim the life of a speedster. His targets are the other Force users, attacking the Still Force’s avatar, Steadfast first.

Barry is able to save his new ally and cause the speedster to vanish but realizes he needs to gather the other users to keep them safe. He is able to convince Fuerza and Psych to meet up, but the latter sees a vision of the Black Flash. Afraid for his life, Psych uses his Sage force powers to cause Steadfast to lash out. Can the Force users get their act together, or are they doomed to die at the hands of the Black Flash?

**Some Spoilers Below**

Story:

After a brief opening of Barry saying he’s felt the Black Flash always right behind him, we return to the present where the Force users are fighting each other. Psych refuses to believe he could keep any of them safe and uses Steadfast lashing out as an escape. Using the lessons he learned from Year One, Barry is able to short out Steadfast’s powers and free him from Psych’s control. Realizing this could cause their powers to drain faster, the Force users fall back to the Flash Museum. Meanwhile, CaptainCold searches for the next Rogues to recruit: Mirror Master and Golden Glider.

This issue will definitely be a let down for a few people, as most of it is exposition of how dangerous the Black Flash is. We do get an epic opening battle between the Force users as well as glimpses of action between the younger members of the Flash Family, but for the most part, it’s catch up. On the one hand, a new reader might want to know how dangerous of a threat this Black Flash is. We are able to see the full effect of him with the monster claiming his first victim at the end of the book. However, when Commander Cold explains how they can’t outrun him, he has no proof to show it.

On the subject of Cold, the rogues building back up in the side story feels forced. It has no impact on the current story and while seeing the new designs are cool, it feels like this was added at the last minute for Year of the Villain. There is no doubt this will be a great story in the future, but for now, our focus should be on the Flash and the other Force users.

Art:

While my gripes with the story are large, the art from Rafa Sandoval continues to be amazing. The designs for each of the characters and their powers are breathtaking, especially the new Rogues and Black Flash. The villains look more threatening than ever, with an actual chill running down my spine after Black Flash claims his first victim. Add that with incredible colorwork, and we have a great looking comic.

Conclusion:

This issue was a bit of a letdown. While the art is very well done, this issue slows down a bit on the action. We get a cool explanation of the Black Flash, but it can get a bit boring without a battle against the speedster of death. The ending certainly gets this reviewer excited for next issue, but not enough to praise this one.

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Review: DAREDEVIL #11 Walks The Fine Line Between Right And Wrong

By

Corey Patterson

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DAREDEVIL readers are undoubtedly still reeling after the explosive events that took place in issue #10. They saw Matt Murdock dive face-first into his affair with Mindy and witnessed an attack on Detective Cole North occur within his own precinct, but the biggest surprise came in the duo’s unexpected team-up against dirty cops. Now the hero formerly known as “Daredevil” questions whether he’s really decided to give up crime-fighting or if it was just a lie he was telling himself. At the same time, Spider-Man returns onto the scene, and he has a few questions he’d like to pose to Cole following the previous issue’s incident.

Readers will get to experience even more action alongside Matt in DAREDEVIL #11, available in comic book stores on Wednesday, September 11.

Story

Following the shootout with the crooked cops last issue, Matt takes to the rooftops once again, only to be confronted by none other than Elektra. His rival and former lover asks him why he seems to be half-heartedly continuing the fight despite swearing off of it. In her mind, he needs to find a new way of combating the evils that plague Hell’s Kitchen. But with the lingering guilt of his accidental killing as Daredevil, coupled with his affair with Mindy, the Man Without Fear realizes the line between good and evil is more complicated than he once believed.

At the other end of the spectrum lies Cole, who’s been reevaluating his own particular brand of black and white thinking (in this case regarding the law). After patrolling the streets for a while he’s apprehended by Spider-Man, the one hero who felt it was his duty to encourage Matt to relinquish the Daredevil identity for a time. Cole questions whether the Wall-Crawler believes he’s above the law, to which the hero replies,

Yeah. I kinda do. Happy now? What kind of laws are there about a guy who can throw cars and jump over buildings and save thousands of people but needs to wear a mask to keep his loved ones safe?

Cole takes all of this in and decides to act, but it’s unclear whether he still believes superheros should be punished according to the traditional laws or not. One thing is certain, though: Cole now knows more about the complexities that arise when one equates following the law with being morally right.

Artwork

Marco Checchetto’s pencils and inks, Nolan Woodard colors, and Clayton Cowles’ letters are spot on in this issue. The coloring of the copycat Daredevil vigilantes use an almost identical shade of red to trick readers into believing they’re the real deal. The penciling contains the slightest details that distinguish it from Matt’s official suit, forcing us to analyze everything going on in these action-heavy scenes. In addition, the lettering boxes give us great insight into each character’s internal dialogue, clearly differentiating it alongside their spoken words.

Comic Covers

Main Cover

Julian Totino Tedesco’s cover artwork features an image of Spider-Man’s face bursting forth out of Matt’s own. This surreal illustration reminds readers of the hero’s close connection, especially in regards to Matt’s decision to quit being Daredevil.

Immortal Wraparound Variant Cover

Koi Pham and Romulo Fajardo Jr.’s Immortal Wraparound variant art is a sight to behold; it features all of the iterations of Matt/Daredevil, hearkening back to the internal war within our hero as he tries to decide what kind of identity to adopt.

Conclusion

DAREDEVIL #11 asks hard questions about morality, offering an intriguing philosophical approach to this action-heavy series. We’re excited to see what Matt and Cole do next in issue #12.

What did you think of Spider-Man’s guest appearance in this issue? Let us know the comments below!

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Review: RONIN ISLAND #6: Will Hana Fight For The Island?

By

Corey Patterson

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Hana and Kenichi—the dynamic duo who put aside their differences to fight the monstrous Byonin—have been separated for quite some time. After the warriors learned the region’s Shogun was the one who unleashed the Byonin in order to conquer the world, the latter fled to warn Ronin Island of the army’s impending assault. At the same time, Hana realized she must work within the Shogun’s military to prevent the attack. But will she be able to make a difference?

Story

One would think learning the Shogun’s forces created the Byonin would be horrific enough, but the maniacal overlord outdoes himself in this issue—he instructs his soldiers to shackle up the creatures and prepare them to be used as a weapon. He plans to set them against all the innocent people living on the Island and its surrounding areas.

Hana is mortified by this new battle tactic, and understandably so. But her fellow peasants enlisted in his army don’t seem as appalled by the Shogun’s actions. Many are simply grateful to be a part of a powerful army that will keep them safe, especially after leaving their lives of poverty. To this Hana implores them to seek rather the community on the Island, a group she claims will accept them. But one of her comrades questions why they should trust her community when they haven’t even accepted her.

Greg Pak touches on important themes through Hana’s interactions with her fellow peasants, including loyalty, resentment, and forgiveness. The reader has the privilege of joining alongside her as she questions the merits of both her homeland and new community.

Artwork

The artwork within RONIN ISLAND #6 captures the hopelessness facing Hana and Kenichi through its desert landscapes and hideous Byonin. Giannis Milonogiannis’ penciling and inking, combined with Irma Kniivila’s coloring, offers intricate detailed illustrations of their fights with the Byonin throughout each protagonists’ journey. However, the backgrounds offer little to help readers imagine the land the Shogun is currently conquering. The scenery isn’t the point of the story, but it would have been great to see more details. Still, the artists’ gruesome depictions of the Byonin’s mutated flesh as it’s sliced into pieces by samurai swords makes up for much of what detail is missing in the background illustrations.

Simon Bowland’s lettering for the issue fits well within the action of this story. Readers can shift between the fighting scenes and dialogue easily, taking in the deep storytelling from both the illustrations and the dialogue.

Comic Covers

Main Cover

Milonogiannis’ and MSASSYK’s main covert art depicts a samurai sword stuck in a skull with both objects covered in the fungal residue left by Byonin. This offers an ominous vision for the story ahead, asking an important question: Will it be the samurais or the Byonin who are ultimately destroyed?

Preorder Cover

Ethan Young’s preorder version depicts a monochromatic illustration reminiscent of traditional East Asian art forms. It features an army of highly detailed Byonin charging an opposing force, implying an impending attack upon the story’s humans.

Unlocked Retailer Variant Cover

Takeshi Miyazawa’s and Raúl Angulo’s unlocked retailer variant artwork features Kenichi fighting with the band of outlaws who captured him last issue; this suggests an unlikely alliance in the near future.

Conclusion

RONIN ISLAND #6 is a philosophical look at what makes a group worth fighting for. Readers will see how Hana, who represents all of us, discerns the difference between an unaccepting, morally depraved empire and her own country that acts the same way while professing to adhere to higher values.

What did you think of Hana’s diplomacy in this issue? Let us know in the comments below!

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WONDER TWINS #7 Returns With Life Lessons

By

Jason Jeffords Jr

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After a quick hiatus, DC Comics WONDER TWINS #7 returns to comic stands this Wednesday, keeping the wonderful wit and heartfelt messages it was beloved for.

Originally announced as a six-issue-mini-series, Wonder Twins hit the ground running and surprised just about everyone. With how well the comic was received there’s no surprise that it was bumped up to a 12-issue series. The much anticipated ‘second season’ finally begins with Wonder Twins #7: “Trails and Twinulations”. Who doesn’t love some fun wordplay in titles?

Wonder Words

Writer Mark Russell has a way with words. He has the ability to deconstruct an idea in the superhero genre so well and so subtly that, once you realize what happened, you have to reread the issue. These subtle messages aren’t always hidden in between the lines, but even when he isn’t being coy, it doesn’t feel like he is force feeding you to think one way. That’s how Wonder Twins #7 feels, with Jayna expressing guilt over the events of her friend’s arrest in the previous issue, explaining to Superman that even though she did everything correct, it doesn’t end as wonderful has she thought it would.

The moment between Jayna and Superman is beautifully written, and could easily have paragraphs spent upon deconstructing it. Russell continues to show amazing plotting, pacing, and a great understanding of characters in the DC Universe, especially in Superman’s speech during said interaction. Big Blue gives the great life lesson that heroes don’t work for rewards. It’s a lonely road, and even when you do everything right, you may lose. Wonder Twins #7 isn’t just limited to life lessons, as Russell keeps the comedy and action throughout.

Wonderlust Art

The quality of art by Stephen Byrne continues to astound even seven issues in. Using bright colors, mixed with his cartoonesque pencils, Byrne’s art helps Russell’s fun demeanor. But Byrne’s art style never tilts to the full cartoon style side, as he keeps realistic anatomy and realism in the interactions characters have with objects or their powers. This art style meshes well with Russell’s story being told, as he brings up serious points in a funny matter, which Byrne’s art then breaths to live.

Byrne injects the same amount of detail in an action scene compared to a dialogue heavy moment. If Russell’s writing was the meat in a sandwich, Byrne’s art would be the buns holding it together.

But what is a hamburger without veggies? That’s where letterer Dave Sharpe comes into the picture. With the Saturday Morning Cartoon art style, and life lesson of the episode theme, Sharpe has the opportunity to play around with the font style in multiple situations. When a character shouts something as loud as they can, or gets extremely surprised, Sharpe makes their words burst out of their bubbles to signify this attitude. In some moments when they are screaming at the top of their lungs, he adds colors to these broken word bubbles, helping convey the weight of the words.

Wonderful Conclusions

Although it doesn’t feature much of the plot present in the previous issues, between the character development and message behind it, Wonder Twins #7 is another wonderful installment in what may be DC’s best series in 2019.

Memorable Quote: “Apparently, there’s a meteor heading straight for earth…so we’re all probably going to die…but the good news is we’re letting you out of school early!” – Principal.

Although it had a lot of moments that are quotable, this one had me laughing the most!

Our Wonderful Readers

Wonder Twins has been a fantastic series thus far, and with this newest issue proves the first six weren’t a fluke, the big question is: have you been reading it? If so what did you think of this return?

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GOTHAM CITY MONSTERS #1 Explores Gotham’s Grotesque Underbelly

By

Jason Jeffords Jr

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Diving deeper into the underbelly of Gotham City, DC Comics Gotham City Monsters #1 explores the uneasy corner known as Monster City, with dusky shades of light, and grotesque monsters to boot.

With the events in DC Comics’ Event Leviathan, monster hunting organization S.H.A.D.E. has dissolved, thus leaving Frankenstein without a job. That is until Frankenstein’s past mentor Melmoth makes his return, killing those close to the team of monsters and others in Monster City, setting up an unexpected team of characters.

Interior art by Amancay Nahuelpan and Trish Mulvihill.

A Monster Tale

Gotham City Monster’s core ‘hero’ characters consists of Frankenstein, Andrew Bennett (I, Vampire), Orca, Killer Croc, and Lady Clayface. As this is the first issue, Steve Orlando spends it setting up the stakes and reasons why this unlikely team would band together. Using more than one issue to set up the team is a nice change of pace with a team-up (mini) series, as in some cases the teaming can feel unnatural, or make no sense story wise. Orlando has each character go through a tragedy of some kind, thus setting up the future formation of the team.

With only two of the characters meeting so far (Frankenstien/Andrew Bennet), Orlando showcases just how much of an uneasy alliance this team-up will be with a grotesque, gore-filled splash page. Even though it was only one instance in Gotham City Monsters #1, this sentiment works greatly, showing this band of monsters won’t get along, but must in order to deal with the threat to Monster City/The Multiverse. As the saying goes, mess with one monster in Monster City, mess with them all. Or something akin to that.

Monster City Graffiti

With Gotham City Monsters #1 taking place in the underbelly of a city as corrupt and unlawful as Gotham is, the art should match the tone of ‘not wanting to visit said town’. Amancay Nahuelpan’s art exudes these themes magnificently. With each monster introduced, Nahuelpan seems to put on a new spin or disgusting appearance that makes you want to steer clear of vacationing here. Nahuelpan’s architecture for work perfectly for the Gothic themes of the city, while drawing the few locations seen in Monster City as broken down, amplifying the sense that no one cares for this city.

Taking the uneasiness feeling of Nahuelpan’s art one step further is the gritty coloring of Trish Mulvihill. The colorist has worked on Batman titles before, and this background shows in Gotham City Monsters #1. Understanding how dark and dirty the colors should look in Gotham, Mulvihill gives Nahuelpan’s pencils a great boost in that unsettling feeling. But her use of colors aren’t just limited to darks, as she uses bright vivid colors in contrast to make moments come to life.

On the lettering side, Tom Napolitano changes the font styles and dialogue balloons for each monster, helping each characters’ dialogue stand out, while giving each one a distinct voice.

Gotham City Monsters Unite (Conclusion)

Although it doesn’t bring anything new to the table, and it may only be for a niche group of superhero comics readers, Gotham City Monsters #1 is a good first issue that introduces the reader to Monster City while leaving breadcrumbs for the inevitable team-up. This easy to access first issue is benefited by the grotesque art and grim color scheme. The few moments heavy with gore and violence may not be for everyone, but for those that love horror in their superhero comics Gotham City Monsters #1 is worth checking out!

Memorable Quote: “Only a fool would cry for life to a dead man.” – Frankenstein

Yeah, that moment was insanely bad ass.

Dear Human Readers

Did you visit Monster City? If so let us know what you think!

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Review: CANTO #4 – Amazing Adventures To Save An Admirer

By

Cody Walker

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Canto #4, out this week from IDW, takes you on a fantastic adventure full of humor and lovable characters that will pull at your heart strings.

Canto is a fantastic and original adventure fantasy that is hard to compare to anything else out there. The character designs remind me of Dark Crystal and The Neverending Story, and that is where any comparisons end. David M. Booher has created a world of wonder and humor that feels unique.

Booher writes Canto while Drew Zucker pencils and Vittorio Astone colors. Deron Bennet takes care of the lettering to round out the creative team. Each issue begins with a passage from a fable that Canto was reading at the beginning of the story. This story of a knight reads like it could also be someone telling the story we’re reading. It is told with pale colors and lettering that looks like old parchment to keep each narrative separate.

Zucker treats us to a few two-page spreads in this issue to give the world of Canto perspective. Walls surround huge cities, and it appears the buildings and homes are crammed together. Long distances have to be covered to get to each town and giants guard the doors; inferring that outside these large walled-off cities are all kinds of dangers.

WARNING: SPOILERS FOLLOW

Canto is the brave little hero with a clock where his heart should be. Not one of his people has a name except for him, and he learns what it means in this issue. This story has an uncanny ability to make me feel delighted and depressed at the same moment. Jeff Lemire is my favorite author because of his ability to do this in just about any story he’s ever written.

Adventure films like Indiana Jones and National Treasure have always been something that I love. Searching unknown and dangerous locations for treasure and fame while details are only revealed as the information becomes necessary. Mystery and intrigue is the draw of those adventure stories, but neither matter if we don’t care for the characters.

Canto has vulnerable characters that you can’t help but root for, and thus pulls you further into this fantastic fantasy world. This story has the feel of an expansive online video game. So much seems to be happening around them that our adventurers could be easily distracted, but they push on towards their goal.

Our party of adventurers grows and shrinks throughout the story. Canto is consistently meeting people and making friends along his journey, and they always have some help or advice to lend. Canto is a story for all ages, and this shows that being kind and willing to learn from others attracts friends that can help you through problems that may arise. Every adventurer is stronger in numbers; especially when that adventure is life.

While just about any comic out there is getting picked up by film studios trying to capitalize off of the success of shows like The Walking Dead, Canto feels like it could easily be destined for a film adaptation. Plenty of exciting characters, conflicts, and an expansive world that can be built on for years, even after the comic ends. Many of the conflicts so far are also relatable to the current events in our real lives; another factor that possibly gets Canto on a screen near you.

“Live in a cage long enough you no longer see the bars.” Just about everyone can relate to that, even if you refuse to admit it. Canto is a fantastic adventure that has plenty to teach us if we open our minds.

What did you think of Canto #4? Let us know what you think of this series so far in the comments below.

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How Gwen’s Planning Needs Work in GWENPOOL STRIKES BACK #2

By

Cat Wyatt

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Gwenpool is still trying to keep herself relevant in GWENPOOL STRIKES BACK #2, out this Wednesday from Marvel Comics. So fans of the spunky blond should make a point of picking up her latest issue.

Gwenpool causing mayhem. Sounds about right.

***SPOILER WARNING***

Gwenpool’s fourth-wall-breaking allows for a unique series, in that she’s completely aware of her fate should her series continue their run of getting canceled. That is why she is literally fighting to keep her series alive in Gwenpool Strikes Back #2.

In the last issue, we saw Gwen take on Spider-Man – though her intent had been to get bitten. Naturally, her plan got a little messed up along the way. This issue brings us another crazy plan from the girl in pink, and it’s…different.

There are several cameos to be found in this issue, from the promised Fantastic Four to Deadpool himself. After all, he’s the only one who might actually understand what she’s talking about here. Maybe.

A good look at the creative team – who clearly are having a blast.

Leah Williams is still writing for this miniseries, and thank goodness for that. You can tell that she’s having a lot of fun writing for this chaotic character and with good reason. She’s given Gwen back all of her unique powers, and then let her off the leash.

This miniseries may be Gwenpool’s last chance to maintain a solo series, and it’s a fact that comes up on more than one occasion. The transparency of the situation is actually quite refreshing. And of course, it’s humorous as well.

There are several truly laugh out loud moments to be found in Gwenpool Strikes Back #2, starting right away on the first panel, and carrying through to the end. The conclusion did a brilliant job of leaving just enough of a cliffhanger to make readers want to come back for more.

Along with Williams, the rest of the creative team clearly enjoyed working on this issue. David Baldeon (artist), Jesus Aburtov (colorist) had their work cut out for them in this issue. Not only did they have to portray all of Gwen’s antics, but they also had to deal with Deadpool’s insanity as well. Not to mention the other cameos.

VC’s Joe Caramagna, the letterer for this issue, must have had a field day. Here are two characters that always get altered speak and thought bubbles, and they’re both appearing in the same issue. It certainly made for a vibrant issue.

Gwenpool and the Hulk. Now THAT will be interesting!

Gwenpool Strikes Back #2 is another fun read for fans of Gwen and all of her antics. If you’re looking for a good laugh, odds are that you’ll find it within these pages. And if not, Gwen (or Deadpool) has some words for you.

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How STEEPLE #1 Launches a New Series

By

Cat Wyatt

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STEEPLE #1 is the start of an all-new series from Dark Horse, out this Wednesday. Get ready for a world of ghost and ghoulies, with only an understaffed church standing as protection against the dark.

A dramatic cover for a first issue; gets your attention, doesn’t it?

***SPOILER WARNING***

Steeple #1 is the start of a new series, and the cover art alone is likely enough to draw in a few new readers right away. They say that Tredregyn is a land that the sea (or the devils) want back. And they would be right. Here only one lonely priest stands between the land and the beasts that wish to take it back.

That is until Billie Baker came to town. She’s an over-enthusiastic priest in training. And while she asked for a difficult assignment – she probably didn’t have this in mind. But already we can tell that she’s not the type to give up or run away.

An iconic cover, full of lots of promises.

John Allison is the writer and lead artist behind this project; which explains why the whole issue felt so cohesive. The first issue didn’t waste any time in introducing the plot, main characters, or the setting (which in this case is actually fairly important). Yet, despite all of that being established, this issue didn’t feel dry in the least.

Steeple #1 found plenty of time to let our characters shine, and to sneak in some witty or comedic moments as well. And then, of course, there’s the intensity of the fighting and implied threat. It all balances out very well.

A car bursting into flames as you head to a new job…no that’s not ominous at all.

Also involved in the artwork was Sarah Stern, who provided the colors for this issue. Together, Allison and Stern bring this world full of demons and ghouls to life. And the end result is something shockingly charming.

The characters portrayed are all unusual but in subtle ways. And then there are the monsters themselves, which are worth taking a look at. So far they’re leaning more towards classic b list horror than truly haunting, but that fits the tone of this series perfectly.

Lastly, Jim Campbell provided the lettering for this issue. His final touches allowed the story to flow in an organic way. The thought boxes weren’t in the least bit intrusive, which is always fantastic to see.

Steeple looks like it’ll be perfect for any readers looking for a fun and quirky escape. The series is full of energy and life, yet has plenty of twists and turns in store for readers. That promises for an entertaining read, while still being relaxing in its own way.

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Review: SILVER SURFER: BLACK #4 – Cataclysmic & Calamitous Intent

By

Cody Walker

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Silver Surfer: Black #4, out this week from Marvel comics, dives deeper into the origin of Galactus.

This issue is an absolutely gorgeous cosmic adventure from Donny Cates and Tradd Moore. Dave Stewart adds vibrant colors to the beautiful panels while Clayton Cowles has the subtle lettering down pat.

WARNING: SPOILERS FOLLOW

Moore’s graffiti/street art style shines in this space crusade. Vivid colors and unimaginable horrors paint a fierce battle between the infant Galactus and the Silver Surfer. Beasts of red and silver sprawl across the pages as they attempt to intimidate each other.

Moore uses stunning two page spreads to show the sheer magnitude and spectacle of this encounter. He draws like someone told him never to use straight lines, and it keeps my eyes immersed in the details. Oceans of blood and obliteration of worlds have never looked so divine.

Silver Surfer: Black #4 takes the surfer back before his maker was born for a story the Marvel historians will love. In the last issue, as the surfer is trying to help ease intolerable pain for Ego, Norrin discovered the cause was the incubator of Galactus. Norrin believes this is his opportunity to end it all and save billions of lives by killing Galactus before he becomes the Devourer of Worlds.

One part of the story that doesn’t make much sense to me involves Uatu, the Watcher. Uatu interferes and stops Norrin from hurling the Galactus incubator into a white dwarf star, ultimately ending his cataclysmic future before it even begins. The Watcher tells Norrin they have declared there must be a balance of light and dark, except later he says a growing darkness will be the end of everything they know, yet he will not interfere.

If this is on purpose, it would appear that Uatu prefers chaos, protecting the calamitous future of Galactus while allowing Knull to end everything. Perhaps Uatu is not so much a watcher as he is an ally for the darkness. Cates has been leaving his mark on the Marvel universe, and a manipulative watcher would be an excellent catalyst for future stories and timelines.

While unveiling an origin for Galactus, Cates leaves the details open for either himself or someone else to elaborate on that tale. Norrin is telling us about Galactus’s universe but says “when his universe died or perhaps was killed”, so Cates is not handcuffing anyone’s creativity when Marvel chooses to tell that story.

Continuity in comic books is always changing, and being vague about the past of the characters is the easiest way to avoid having to retcon something later on. This is a masterful storytelling ploy and almost assures that we will get a mini-series to explain Galactus’s life further before the hunger consumes him.

Silver Surfer: Black #4 also reveals that the “Thanos Wins” story, where the surfer appears as the Fallen One while wielding mjolnir, is an alternate timeline, his decisions create branches of new realities and the current proposition is one of those branches as well. Norrin has tremendous guilt for what he watched Galactus do as his herald, but still can’t bring himself to kill him, because Uatu reminds him that nothing will change except he has to live with the guilt of what he does this day.

Silver Surfer: Black #4 is another gorgeous issue packed with cosmic battles, hard decisions, revelations, and sets up an intriguing finale that I cannot wait to read.

What did you think of the latest Silver Surfer: Black? What do you think about the new reveal of Galactus’s past? Let us know in the comments below.

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