Sunday, May 15, 2011

FF #3

I stand in awe of the juggling act writer Jonathan Hickman is presenting in the pages of FF (the comic formerly known as Fantastic Four).

In his relatively short time on the title, he has populated it with a number of new allies, enemies and potential future threats for the team, and with each issue he draws the net tighter around the cast.

At the center is Dr. Doom and his goddaughter Valeria (who is the daughter of Reed and Sue Richards). Here an amazing cast of characters are gathered to find a way to defeat Reed - but not the one you might expect.

We see plots unfold, odd alliances form, and a very real threat of worldwide destruction building, all playing out on a cosmic scale. It's a complex, challenging story, but one well worth tackling.

The art by Steve Epting continues to be spot on - dark and ominous, but powerful with striking layouts and great characterizations.

If you like your stories simple and straightforward, then this comic isn't for you.

But if you're looking for a smart, intelligent story, this is one you should not miss.

Grade: A

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