Tragic Unity
For a semi-final issue, this really doesn't have the most compelling cover. I honestly could be extraordinarily snobby on this one, because as I examine it, I notice I really can't come up with a good reason why I don't really like it. I wanted to say the balance, a really crowded image... but when I went to analyze it I realized this actually has a nice balance. Captain Atom is the behemoth looming in the background, Nate is in the middle protecting Ranita from Atom's destruction, but it actually puts her closer to Atom. Hmmm... Pretty good actually, just off for me for some reason I can't put my finger on.
YES! Next to none of this issue is done in the obnoxious crayon style that has plagued this series, and the panel layout is really smart. The layouts are always done in a style to fully compliment the emotion of each scene. It really adds a stronger sense of immersion into the series.
That's something that really helps the tone, because after consistently casting Captain Atom as God, this series takes things to the next level to grip your heartstrings by connecting you to him. I really felt for Adam as he's forced to abandon his human self to reign in the deity lashing out with dark tendrils of good intentions. Right after he hits the peak of happiness connecting his heart to the one he always desired. Adam and Atom are inseparable, and it's such a tragic unity, the human and the divine. And yet not so divine in his mind, as the previous arc instilled in his brain. So what is he now? He's simply Captain Atom.
In Conclusion: 4.5/5
I think the only real problem is that pacing is almost TOO smooth. It's so natural that noting comes at a huge surprise or emotional bump; everything makes sense. It's all really good, it just has a very unfortunate position. I REALLY wish this wasn't the end, despite it being a good ending. I think this is a kind of story that has huge potential, seeing Atom drift through his newfound acceptance of himself and disconnect from mankind. Also it seems like this issue title would be PERFECT for the next issue, but whatever.