It’s been a while since I’ve read The Wake and I have to admit, I’m rather anxious to see what happens next after leaving off on that cliffhanger. So let’s not waste any more time and get right to it. Is it good?
The Wake #4 (Vertigo Comics)
So going to the sub was a bust as thousands of mermaids/sea monsters descend upon the hapless crew members of the rig. More people die and even when the survivors gets back onto the rig, so what? These things are tearing it apart and there are no vehicles left to escape in. What’s Harper and the survivors supposed to do then?
All I know is this is going to be a bloodbath.
This issue continues the high pace and frantic nature from last issue before slowing down in the second half to allow the characters to reflect on what the hell had just happened. This is a good choice since it pulls the readers in quickly and then gives them a moment to think about everything. Plus, it still throws in another “oh crap” ending and a great twist in the middle that is just awesome. This comic really knows how to keep everyone around and wanting to see more.
The rest of the issue works pretty well. The characters remain likeable and with so few left now, we get a bit more characterization that defines and makes them more relatable. The pacing is good and everything moves well. It has another one of those stories the characters tell that relates back to their situation and slows everything down, though this time it is confined to one page. The dialogue was good as well and I especially liked the scene where the survivors are talking about their regrets.
The artwork remains as great as always. If this is why the comic is being delayed, so that the artist can incorporate all of this detail and amazing panel layouts, then I say give him all the time he needs. Everything looks great, from the large scale monster attack to the moment where the characters are walking through the flooded and quite hallway of the rig. Outside of maybe one moment with an odd facial expression, this is a damn good looking book as always.
Simple, yet beautiful in an eerie way.
9.5
- The storytelling, pacing, and ending are all great.
- Relatable characters.
- The artwork by Sean Murphy is a sight to be seen.
- Oh sure, now we see some characterization for some of these people.
Is It Good?
It certainly is. The Wake continues to be a fantastic horror/sci-fi comic that should be read by everyone. From great writing and pacing to gorgeous artwork there is no better DC/Vertigo book this week you could be buying than this.
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