Civil War #4 (Marvel Comics)
by Mark Millar, Steve McNiven & Dexter Vines
Remember Avengers #500-503? The “Disassembled” story arc? And Identity Crisis? This issue of Civil War reminds me of those stories quite a bit, mainly because the plot is mired in the unnecessary and difficult-to-accept deaths of several characters, more for impact than anything else. This issue has already irked a number of readers, though I would imagine the ill will that its lateness fostered might have something to do with it. After reading this issue, I was a bit torn. There were elements I just didn’t buy — such as Reed’s and Tony’s willingness to accept that former allies would have to die for their cause, not to mention their new “recruits,” as revealed on the final page. But other elements in the book are strong. We finally get to see the long-promised rift in the Fantastic Four, and it’s a subplot in which the character of the Invisible Woman really shines. And McNiven’s art is, as always, powerfully detailed and effective in conveying the dire atmosphere of the story. In the end, though, the plot is quickly losing credibility despite some interesting character bits. 5/10
Recent Comments