Publisher: Marvel Comics
Writer: James Robinson
Artists: Leonard Kirk, Paolo Villanelli, Paul Neary
Colourist: Chris Sotomayor
Editors: Katie Kubert, Christina Harrington
Release Date: OUT NOW!
Price: $3.99
So, deep breath, Doctor Spectrum wants answers and the Doc gets some life-changing ones in Squadron Supreme #8. Her big beef though: when the Illuminati destroyed her universe why did Inhuman King Black Bolt save her? But she’s not so innocent either when she aided in the killing of Namor the Sub-Mariner. In the backdrop Kyle Richmond/Nighthawk is fighting another version of himself, leading to a surprising outcome. And Warrior Woman lurks around the fringes, either waiting to attack or become an interesting subplot.
After helping defeat a rogue alien cabal called Myriad, Spectrum meets Inhuman Tom Raymond, a.k.a. the original Human Torch’s sidekick Toro and Namor’s pal. She follows them to the Inhuman home New Attilan for her answers. “Still can’t decide if you’re one of the good guys or the bad ones,” says Tom to her. “You little psycho,” he adds. And with good reason, as Spectrum proves to be a rude guest.
The answers to Spectrum makes her re-evaluate her life, but also create more questions. She sees in Black Bolt great remorse and pain as she considers whether to pursue revenge.
The artwork by Leonard Kirk, Paolo Villanelli and Paul Neary maintains its high standards. Many panels cause the eye to linger and that’s no bad thing.
The story here is complicated and there are only three action pages; but Squadron Supreme #8 never bores the reader. Emotions are laid bare and both Spectrum and Black Bolt never stop soul-searching; bravo to writer James Robinson for giving these characters’ depth.
‘Hey, Mr. Postman, look and see, if the next issue’s in your bag for me. Pleaseeeeee, Mr. Postman, won’t you look for me…….’ I can do this all day and will until the next issue turns up…..a one, a one, a one-two, there-four….’Hey, Mr. Postman, look and see…’
Reviewer: Joe Lovece
Reviews Editor: Steve Hooker