So while I'm not so sure about some of the psychological underpinnings of the characters in the latest Y: The Last Man arc, I'll be damned if I don't find the story fascinating as usual. The confrontation between Hero and Yorick comes much faster than I expected, and goes in a completely different direction than I expected, and the ability to confound my expectations remains one of the big selling points of the series for me. Vaughan's ability to blend realistic characterization, darker moments and humor is up there as well, as is Guerra's artwork.
Ever since this series started, the Amazons have been in the forefront of things as adversaries. Victoria, the leader, came across as a charismatic cult leader, and her followers dangerous because of their undying loyalty. When the involvement of Yorick's sister was involved, the danger became more personal, and when the Amazons reached Marrisville at the conclusion of the last issue, it got about as personal as it could get. Until this issue, which rapidly spirals out of control and puts Yorick and his friends (old and new) in a pretty tight spot.
There's some terrific dialogue, and excellent moments, in this issue. Victoria's "fact"-laden speech to the women of Marrisville, not to mention their reaction, was absolutely terrific. And Yorick's self-sacrificing attitude and ability to be a little flippant with Sonia makes him as likable as ever. Even though some of the characterization has been a bit strained for me, such as my difficulty buying into Hero's newfound loyalties or even Victoria's goals, which come across as completely psychotic and self-delusional for someone who is seemingly at least educated, it's usually pretty easy to forgive when the rest of the character work is so strong.
Guerra and Marzan Jr. don't get a lot to play with this issue as a result of the character focus. A lot of their job comes down to making the various players look angry or determined. But they do get some effective and fast-paced visuals to close out the issue, and though the effects of those visuals is felt more as a result of the character reactions, it wouldn't be as effective without the visceral impact that the artwork carries.
Vaughan's ability to develop character relationships so quickly serves him well in the closing of this issue as well. Because of the relationships that have developed in the travels of the protagonists through Marrisville, the ramifications of this issue feel pretty heavy and important. And as always, Vaughan leaves off with a cliffhanger that has me anxious to see the next issue, keeping Y: The Last Man on the top of my reading pile every week that it comes in.
