“Secret Wars” #2 builds a stunning new world that defies the previous incarnations of the Marvel Universe in new and fascinating ways. It’s engaging and thought provoking, and perhaps the best introduction to battleworld that readers could have asked for. So far, Jonathan Hickman and Esad Ribic’s mega event series is two for two.
WRITTEN BY: Jonathan Hickman
ART BY: Esad Ribic
PUBLISHER: Marvel Comics
PRICE: $4.99
RELEASE: May 13th, 2015
Right away, we’re introduced to the Thors. This is a new legion of protectors who are charged with carrying out the law in this new Marvel Universe. A new recruit acts as a stand-in for the reader, and it works magnificently in walking us through the rules of battleworld. Many questions remain about the construction of the universe, the apparent creation of many Thors in an instant and just how Victor Von Doom comes to preside over it all.
Yet, somehow the questions are where “Secret Wars” #2 thrives. The world that Hickman is building not only feels dense but incredibly well defined. There is an internal hierarchy with well-known characters playing very new roles in something akin to a Game of Thrones esque power struggle for the throne governing battleworld. Secret Wars seems to be just as concerned about the internal politics governing this new world as it is about the war happening on the ground.
Esad Ribic is built for event comics. His line work is stellar and emotive. There have been criticisms of his facial expressions, but this is something that most will be able to get over. His rich painterly style lends credence to the sweeping feel of the conflict, and there are many moments here where the artist makes an imposing script challenge look like a walk in the part. It’s particularly impressive because he’s able to shift styles as the scene calls. From thoughtful and emotive in the throne room, to haunting and imposing when cast on the other side of the shield.
And well, then there is the final page reveal for those who have been wondering about the events of last issue. It serves as the perfect tease heading into the next issue and sets the stage quite nicely for the story to follow. There is still a ton of heavy lifting to be done with the series before it wraps in September, but somehow it is all gelling with such flawless style that is hard to see it faltering anytime soon. It’s not that Marvel desperately needed a win right now, but this may cement them as the more dominant of the big two publisher because when all is said and done, Secret Wars is something to remember.
This issue proves Secret Wars is an accessible and digestible new status quo even for newcomers.