Divinity #0
Valiant Entertainment 2017
Written by Matt Kindt
Illustrated by Renato Guedes
Lettered by Dave Lanphear
DIVINITY, a lost Russian cosmonaut newly returned to Earth with god-like powers, has successfully restored the world to order after the reality-altering event known as the Stalinverse. But how can a man – even one with near-divine abilities – know for certain that the planet has been truly restored in full? To make sure, Divinity must bear witness to the world as it now stands – heroes, villains, gods, and all – to ensure the rightful order of the Valiant Universe!
Well if you are still on the fence about the Valiant Universe and want a look see at what’s been happening in an easy to read and follow story this issue right here is for you. With everything that happened with the Stalinverse and with the new look of some familiar franchises it’s a great way to see not only how Divinity fits into the scheme of things but how he’ll move forward with them as well.
I do like that while we don’t see the Harbingers right now because it means that’s a group he’s had no contact with and that leaves him meeting them for down the road. Since he has met and knows Harada that’ll be interesting to see if it comes into play. Speaking of which the fact that my favourite Valiant character is one that Abram admires and thinks is as close to his equal as there can be makes me super happy. Well that and it’s nice to see Matt’s characterisation of these folks through “one of their owns” eyes.
Renato’s interior work here is stunningly fabulous! The painted aspect is beyond what I could have hoped for as well as the attention to detail he brought to it. Right from the opening that book and the words we can actually read set the stage for what’s to come beautifully. Also it doesn’t matter what the subject matter is either it’s tone, mood and feel are flawless. The use of page layouts through angles, perspective and the utilisation of backgrounds fleshes out the story extremely well.
I’m really rather impressed with the kind of characterisation that Matt brings us on Abram. The maturity and dignity that he possesses is kind of refreshing and dangerous at the same time. There’s danger in him and his way of seeing things, that the Red Brigade is now a part of continuity and something he allowed to stay will have consequences as the ending of the issue undoubtedly will. So the potential is here for some great adventures that will continue to shape and mold the Valiant universe.
There’s some great excitement coming from this. I mean the potential for new stories and new series alone is unlimited and as varied as can be. That Matt was able to bring us Abram and make it all about him while still roaming the Valiant Universe’s cast of characters was impressive. That Myshka still plays a role with Abram is a nice touch and let’s us see how their relationship has changed. Also on a personal note I think the opening and ending tying in together like they do is utterly brilliant!