Publisher: DC/Vertigo
Writer: Eric Kripke
Artists: John Higgins, Marc Olivent
Colourist: SotoColor
Editor: Ellie Pyle
Release Date: OUT NOW!
Price: $3.99

In Jacked #5 it’s a showdown between crack dealer Damon and middle-aged loser Josh, who’s tripping balls while taking the eponymous drug Jacked. But neighbour bad-girl Jessica, whom Josh saved from her abusive lover, has manipulated Josh into a weapon.

Josh’s hallucinations have taken the form of his younger self, anthropomorphic snack cakes, superheroes and a talking haemorrhoid. Josh thinks Jessica is Firestorm, or as he calls her, “Torch Girl.” But his visions escort Josh through a spirit quest to find the core of his own character. Is middle age the death of potential and hope, as the haemorrhoid says?

Jacked is a perfect vehicle to explore the human psyche. Writer Eric Kripke  explores in depth the psychology of aging, heroism, addiction, violence and relationships without the plot missing a beat or getting lost in the mix. John Higgins artwork is funky and loose, just like the character Josh.

Jacked #5 has more depth and meaning than most pieces of adventure fiction, but still remains entertaining and engaging.  Resulting in Jacked #5 being one of the most interesting comic books currently available.

Get jacked up by Jacked #5, you will not be disappointed.

 

Reviewer: Joe Lovece
Reviews Editor: Steve Hooker