Marvel Comics 2018
Written by Gerry Duggan
Illustrated by Greg Smallwood
Lettered by VC’s Cory Petit
In a desolate, barren landscape, the Master of the Mystic Arts fights what may well prove to be his final battle—alone, unaided, friendless…except…what’s in that bag that Stephen Strange is carrying with him?
I would like meet Gerry at some point, I am not sure if I missed my opportunity or not but with this and with Infinite Horizon, Analog and the Dead Rabbit which I want to see finished because tits up that’s something spectacular he has become someone who’s work generally outside the “norm” I find interesting. That he wrote this story about Stephen and it has his complete signature stamp on it made me extremely happy. The writing here is phenomenal and it’s people like this that make me want to see them do more with the character.
I am enjoying the way that this book is structured. The opening here is great I love seeing the old man walking in what looks like a dessert that is as barren as barren can be. Watching him and seeing what he does was weird, fascinating and kind of gross—and by kind of I mean really very gross. Still it does so much for grabbing the readers attention and making them want to know what the hell is going on here. It really is that hook, line and sinker deal as as soon as you see that one thing happen it’s over.
The way that the whole story moves along is extremely well done. Seeing Stephen doing whatever it is he’s doing and talking to whom or what ever is in that satchel well it’s kind of crazy weird. Still at whatever age he’s supposed to be and whenever this time is supposed to take place is almost immaterial but tie into the story very nicely. Also the revelations and information that is given is done in such a way that only strengthens that love for the character that was instilled so very long ago, somewhere in the June 1974-February 1987 run to be more precise. Oddly enough is was his more aloof personality with that hint of coldness alongside the colourful costume and idea of magic and the psychedelic way of it being brought to life.
Speaking of which major kudos here to Greg and the work he does on the interiors. I love a man who can do it all and does it this well, doesn’t hurt he’s a cutie either. The way he’s able to use the linework so effectively to bring this elderly version of Stephen to life and shows in those images in the backgrounds letting us see the state of the world he has some of the most beautifully talented hands and eyes. The creativity and imagination in seeing Dormammu’s hound creatures is a perfect example. The utilisation of the page layouts and how we see the angles and perspective in the panels shows off an excellent eye for storytelling. The first half is so nice and then the second half with it’s vivid vibrant work that makes everything so amazing to see.
While I am not sure how this actually ties into the new Invaders series that’s coming, if I am completely honest I don’t care at all. This is an amazing story that shows off the creators abilities and talents in storytelling. Doctor Strange has been this interesting and appealing to me since ‘79/’80 when I first discovered him. Also that double page spread, sigh DAMN what an homage. There is some great characterisation and a nice little look at his life, his character and the kind of man he is and it’s way more than enough for us all to want to see more. So hopefully his own ongoing will keep growing and morphing into more of this.