The Beginning of the End
Northlanders, the 'Viking' anthology series, is to conclude with issue 50. Thus was recently decreed. A damn shame it is, as the book has continuously grown in quality and become a staple of the ever-receding Vertigo brand. But so goes the universe.
It is ever-so fitting then, that the final arc of the series be its largest and as evident from this stunning initial issue, its inevitable best. Few things can be counted on, ever so less in this medium. The quality of Northlanders is one of those rarities.
Wood, whose strengths lie in character and concept, has with the end on the horizon, finally mastered his Northlands odyssey. Ever so methodically is the tale crafted. Absolutely defined, yet still startling. Add in the magic of Azaceta's understanding and breath-taking depiction.
There is simply no better that can be done here and unfamiliar or lapsed readers have the wondrous benefit Northlanders has always offered, which is the accessibility of a new tale for every fresh arc. Only veterans, though, will appreciate how far its come.