Monday, October 11, 2010

S.H.I.E.L.D. #4

(Almost back to normal, everyone, and so are the reviews.)

As I've mentioned before, writer Jonathan Hickman has been criticized for the fact that his stories are complex and sometimes difficult to follow. For that reason, they're not for everyone, but for those readers with the patience and the desire to sort out the puzzle, his stories pay great dividends.

Nowhere is that more true than with S.H.I.E.L.D.

This story spans centuries, includes famous historical figures in quite unexpected ways, and mixes in healthy doses of Marvel's cosmic tapestry. The end result is a real delight, if a very improbable one.

In this issue we have Leonardo da Vinci, one of the key architects of the organization (which may or may not be related to the modern-day SHIELD), somehow turning up alive in 1956 to take part in a cosmic event.

Also taking part in events is an immortal Isaac Newton, whose motives seem quite dark, and other famous names that I won't spoil here.

It's great fun to follow along as Hickman continues to weave his story, revealing events slowly and carefully. There are also some "Easter Eggs" for longtime fans to enjoy.

The story is well served by the amazing art of Dustin Weaver, who provides images with breathtaking scope and amazing detail.

This comic isn't for everyone, but if you liked Lost and The DaVinci Code, you'll probably get a kick out of this, too.

Recommended!

Grade: A-

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2 comments:

BobbyNash said...

Glad you're feeling better, Chuck.

Bobby

Chuck said...

Thanks, Bobby! I always figured that if I missed a day of reviewing, it would be because of a sudden illness or being sent unexpectedly out of town for work reasons (which happens on rare occasions). So far, I've been lucky - though I wasn't sure I was going to make it Saturday!