Sirk TV Comic Review: MARVEL SMALL ISSUES (6-3-20)
Like many issues the idea of action versus consequence is contained in each character's motivations. Whether it is living up to expectations, maintaining a steadfast point of view without selling out or simply paying for sins of the past, this week's comics show that progression, especially in terms of The Punisher. Different points in life dictate differing reflections.
Avengers Of The Wasteland #5 The key in creating new characters while not losing the essence of the ones that came before them is to saddle them with expectations while understanding that they need to make their own choices whether it is necessary or not. The path in this series is Dr. Doom and his need for one last battle that shows his mettle. The question becomes the intentions of those that carry the mantle of Thor, Ant Man or Captain America, what does it mean to be that person...and where does their own identity lie. Without spoiling any of the plot points, it is about the choices being made, whether it it is good or evil and how it reflects legacy.
Force Works 2020 #3 Robots overrunning an island is not a new occurrence but when it is two different factions of evil trying to find the less damaging side, it can be an interesting paradox. The members of Force Works led by War Machine are a diametric group even if they are paler reflections of The Avengers. Quake seems like the most straightforward but understands the necessity of her work while the others seem preoccupied by the sociological and philosophical intention of tech versus the greater good. In trying to save a world where does acceptable collateral damage lie. Force Works' job as a team is to help cover up the elements of power while still maintaining to some standard of ethics. When a giant baddie in the form of Ultimo combines with a Deathlok giant it is a powerful visual image. The switched perspective in the final battle moments is well executed while the epilogue plays to the united front knowing that the greater good will prevail...for a few days.
Revenge Of The Cosmic Ghost Rider #5 Having someone as bad-ass as Frank Castle taking on the Ghost Rider mantle especially that of the Cosmic variety is a great idea. While the texture filters in with a mix of Heavy Metal and Lobo, the ride, however archetypal or metaphorical is rife with beauty. Mephisto, as a character who takes an innocent girl's soul into the underworld, has enough charm and sarcasm to build an sinister yet alluring path to lure Castle down into the depths of Hell. Unlike some cosmic plots, this issue is both clear and convoluted in the most visceral way making for brisk action and story. Mephisto sitting on his chair in Vegas with a straw in a decapitated frat boy's eye while Castle is roaring on a fire steed down Las Vegas Blvd. is the greatest kind of comic imagery. Then the resolution especially the irony of different deals made gives this story a beautiful kind of tragedy.
Scream: Curse Of Carnage #6 This continuing series with this entry "Suffer The Children Part I" shows our symbiote host finding her way through shelters just living a wandering existence. However now there seems to be a kidnapper on the loose taking young children. She feels a sense of protection for some but the symbiote inside her wants to look out for itself. At one point in the middle, she gets into a 3 way fight with Sandman and The Punisher who are all looking to dispense justice on a recent perp who is just one part of the puzzle. Each character here needs different information which all gets lost in a jumble. The more interesting story that moves towards the end is a mythical creature which, for all intents and purposes, provides a very focused point on what these kidnapped children are being groomed for.
By Tim Wassberg
