Dynamite Entertainment 2016
Written by Warren Ellis
Illustrated by Jason Masters
Coloured by Guy Major
Lettered by Simon Bowland
MI6 is under attack from both hidden forces and Her Majesty's Government itself. Why do MI5 and Whitehall want MI6 to be unable to defend itself? Where is the terrifying Beckett Hawkwood? What is EIDOLON?
Oh my goodness I really am a fan of what Warren is doing with this series. This issue kind of showcases all the aspects of subterfuge and underhandedness that the spy world is rather known for as well as the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the agencies involved. James may be one man but he’s part of a larger organisation and as such whereas he’s prone to breaking the rules he’ll back his people unconditionally. The same apparently can’t be said for other agencies since well read the story and find out.
I do like that we finally get to learn what Eidolon is and how it operates. The origins lay rooted in the past and it’s rather smart really should another full scale war break out then the sleeper cells activate and well certain aspects are saved. Only the London Cell isn’t sleeping they are active and taking matters into their own hands with a greedy and seedy tone. I have to give credit here because I really honestly thought that the infighting between 5 and 6 was just professional jealousy. Warren is pretty amazing when it comes to writing this stuff and he’s surpassed even my high expectations with this one.
Another thing that really impresses me is that everyone on James team is willing to place themselves in harm's way for the greater good. Good for the Goose and all that. While they know going into secret meetings in distant places are a sure setup for something to happen they do so anyway with full knowledge. Okay full knowledge something may happen but learning, exposing and getting the job done is more important. I like that.
The darkened scenes to open this issue were amazingly well done. There all that darkness that surrounds him with limited work in the panel shows us how dark and pitch black this area is. The offices are too stark for my tastes but that bar scene was great. It’s amazing what backgrounds can do for a scene. I also really like Jason’s Bond he’s suave, handsome, irritating and just kind of classic which is great to see.
The way this story flows through the pacing and the revelations and action sequences is extremely well done. I love the fact that we’re never bored even during the talking scenes, and it’s written like a movie or television programme in my eyes, the dialogue is littered with moments that range from a raised eyebrow to a chuckle. So even as the information is given there are great moments that will set up the events that will occur next. It’s moves along at just the right pace without having to be stretched out or condensed in any way. This really is the best version of Bond i’ve seen in a very long time.