Skybound/Image Comics 2014
Created & Written by Joshua Williamson
Created & Illustrated by Andrei Bressan
Coloured by Adriano Lucas
Lettered by Pat Brosseau
Alright well this series has been among my favorites since the first issue. Joshua’s amazing storytelling ability along with Andrei’s amazing interiors have catapulted this series into the stratosphere. With this incredible premise and captivating characters we’re being taken on this journey that is full of twists turns and surprises that continue to captivate the imagination and stun us with the scope of what’s real and not.
We’ve seen that Brennan has had glimpses of what’s attached to his brother in the past but the last encounter left him with more questions that need answering. I love this because now we’re not sure if what Mikey is telling Brennan is the truth. It’s one thing to have lost your little brother only to get him back again as this adult barbarian type but to slowly lose trust in him after everything they’ve been through that’s harder. The characterization here is beyond incredible and the fact that these two brothers have such a relationship and love for each other and they are being put through the ultimate test like this is amazing to experience.
While part of believes that everything that Mikey tells Brennan is true about the Dragons and going to this island it’s the end I have a problem with. That however isn’t nearly as important as we see the background information regarding the dragons unfold. Andrei and Adriano here are giving us some stunning visuals with this. Oh my it’s that whole fantasy world that really does capture the imagination so wonderfully. It’s also seeing a slightly older Mikey going there after a wee bit of training.
I see what he’s saying about what’s happening there and it sounds like Mikey that belligerent kid wanting to help people who hasn’t been hardened yet. I also see a little bit of embellishment making him seem a bit more brave and heroic than he probably was but again that’s pretty natural. That Joshua makes them so completely relatable as brothers is incredible.
It’s Mikey’s depiction of his first encounter with the Lore’s Nevermind that doesn’t ring true. We’ll see over time if the true story of how Mikey became infected with it and how much it control’s him or vice versa. What is crystal clear is that now it’s up to Brennan to do whatever he can to try and save Mikey’s soul.
I missed seeing their parents and what they are up to this issue. Especially since a very pregnant wife/girlfriend is running around with mom. Plus that handsome as all get out father who needs to get involved with his wife and have them all evading the FBI and catching up with the kids. Oh and it’s been awhile since we’ve seen agents chase them so it’ll be good to see how much progress they are making and if anyone can get to another mage here on Earth.
With such incredible characterization and a stunning backdrop it’s no wonder that month after month this continues to be one of if not the strongest ongoing title currently available.