THOR #42
"Taking Charge, Part 2 of 3"
Recommended (8/10)
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Marvel Comics
Writer: Dan Jurgens
Pencils: Stuart Immonen
Inks: Scott Koblish
Colors: Avalon Studios
Letters: Comicraft
Editor: Tom Brevoort
Price: $2.25 US/$3.50 CAN |
I'm amazed that the same writer whose work on Captain America so consistently disappoints lately is doing such an incredible job with a far more challenging title character in Thor. Jurgens has done an excellent job of humanizing the Thunder God in this death-of-Odin storyline, and the touching tone of the script is matched by dark but down-to-earth quality in the art by Immonen and Koblish as well.
Thor continues to struggle with his father's death, refusing to accept it. Of course, he has good cause, as this isn't the first time the Allfather has been believed to be deceased, so the heir to the Asgardian throne seeks out an oracle for the answers he doesn't want to learn. Meanwhile, back on Earth, Jake Olson adapts to life without a super-powered alter ego. The timing sucks, since he's trapped in a burning building.
Immonen's soft, realistic style brings a much-needed sense of humanity to the otherworldly characters that are an integral part of the series. We needn't be told Thor is drunk and angry; we can see it. I'm also impressed with Koblish's heavy inks. He brings a gritty quality to the art, as well as a sombre and mature tone. Furthermore, the colors reinforce that tone nicely while still remaining bright.
There's a lot of potential in the new direction Jurgens is taking with this book. I hope he sticks to his guns and focuses on Thor's adjustment to the role of ruler of Asgard as opposed to simply an adventurer and protector. Summoning lightning and smiting villains is old hat to him, but politics and diplomacy are a whole new ball game.
While this is far from a good jumping-on point for new readers (a number of elements aren't explained, such as Olson's connection to Thor, or that his partner is actually one of Thor's enemies in disguise), it's still a strong read. I'm impressed that Jurgens has taken time out to use not one issue, but an entire story arc for this emotionally driven plotline. Thor is usually characterizated by cosmic action, and this quieter, more reflective atmosphere is a nice change of pace.
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