“Wild’s End” hits its penultimate chapter this month with what ends up being a bit of a mixed bag. For an issue almost entirely encompassed by running there’s not much real plot progression and no reveals to speak of. Abnett is definitely saving some of his juicy twists for next month’s finale, although I bet that issue will completely satisfy it leaves this month’s chapter a wee thin. It’s still a good read just one with a few more hiccups than normal.
WRITTEN BY: Dan Abnett
ART BY: I.N.J Culbard
PUBLISHER: BOOM! Studios
PRICE: $2.99
RELEASE: January 14, 2015
Reviewed By: Torin Chambers
Wasting absolutely no time Wild’s End #5 picks up immediately after issue #4’s cliffhanger ending. Mr. Slipaway rushes back to the bar which is now engulfed in flames, in an attempt to save Mr. Blatchley and Alph. Mr. Blatchley, as we all know was incinerated last issue but little Alph manages to make it out. Although with horribly burned hands from trying, in vain, to save Mr. Blatchley. It’s almost heart breaking to see this little guy go through so much pain, both mentally and physically. He’s visibly shaken by the ordeal and is sort of aloof for the rest of the issue. Not being able to fully come to terms with what’s happened and still is happening around him.
The remainder of the issue follows our heroes as they try to make their way back to Lower Crowchurch, using any means at their disposal. A couple interesting dynamics form this issue as Mr. Slipaway and Mr. Fawkes become something of a leadership team and Ms. Peardew and Mr. Minks strike up an intriguing friendship. While these new dynamics are refreshing they don’t add much to the plot.
Visually this is the most beautiful Wild’s End has looked yet. I.N.J Culbard flourishes during a gorgeous night scene. The first page of the river side at night is absolutely stunning and it just keeps getting prettier. The starry night sky is dotted with a massive amount of stars that gives a sense of just how much is out there. Out there, where these space-things have come from. Thematically I love it.
While the plot barely advances this month, instead there’s some excellent character work happening and the visuals are at an all-time high. Wild’s End’s finale next month is sure to bring it all home in a big way and I’ll be counting down the days.