And Then I Read: MISTER MIRACLE 4

Image © DC Entertainment. Written by Tom King, art and colors by Mitch Gerads, letters by Clayton Cowles.

The fine cover of this issue by Nick Derrington is kind of a bait and switch. It’s much more in the mainstream DC and Kirby tradition, while the art inside is definitely not. If the cover promises a Kirbyesque action-filled cosmic adventure,  that also is not what the interior delivers. Despite that, I find this book quite entertaining, possibly because it goes so against expectations.

The entire issue is nine-panel grids. Many are medium shots of characters, or head shots, often repeated. Much of the issue is an impromptu trial of Scott Free by the current Highfather, Orion, acting as judge and jury, with Lightray along and Barda there with Scott. This was expected. She ordered a veggie and dip tray. (Perfect comic relief.) Orion reduces the trial to a series of true or false questions that Scott must answer. MUST answer. Sounds boring, doesn’t it? I found it anything but. Writer Tom King skillfully turns this very restrictive scenario into riveting, soul-wrenching confessions from Scott, and some from the others as well. You have to read it, there’s no good way to explain it. Mitch Gerads’ art is perfect for this issue, even with the occasional trippy effect panel. The characters are in costume, but completely believable as real people…assuming they are real people. The tension that builds in this story is finally released in a single punch that carries far more impact because of that. I am quite impressed.

Highly recommended.