The Good
Let me begin this by telling you, the people of the internet, that I've never really been all that much of a Thor fan. I've enjoyed some stories here and there in previous runs, but the character never grew on me. So, why am I telling you this? It's to make it crystal clear just how phenomenal THOR: GOD OF THUNDER really is. Opinions might have been somewhat mixed on the last arc (I thoroughly enjoyed it), but this is undeniably epic.
Jason Aaron continues to prove he's an exceptional match for the God of Thunder's universe. First and foremost, praise is required for the recap page. The way it has each character's bio link to the next was a deliciously lighthearted way to kick-off such an epic and joyous book. I don't know if Aaron's the one who wrote it, but credit should be given to the person behind that. As for the core of the issue, it'll have you 100% absorbed. The scenes on Earth's distant future are smile-inducing and absolutely full of joy. Seeing King Thor and "Old Galactus" argue back and forth about Earth is a priceless experience and without question the most enjoyable debate you'll read in this week's comics. And the way it ends? Oh man, it'll have you setting aside $3.99 for the next issue right away. Even when the scope is massive, sprinkled with an important message and painting a bleak future, Aaron still makes the experience hugely enjoyable.
Aaron instills just as much wonder and charm in the modern timeline, too. The writer primarily focuses on building a bond between Thor and Roz Solomon -- which is an honestly pleasant and absorbing dialogue -- but the mind behind the series really cranks up the intrigue with Dario Agger and how Roxxon will combat the God of Thunder. Given his nickname, we all saw his twist coming a mile away, but the reveal still manages to be thoroughly awesome.
Artist Esad Ribic and colorist Ive Svorcina are perfect additions to this book. The scenes on Earth's future are grand in scale and do a tremendous job complimenting Aaron's script. I'm sure some will claim there's a lack of detail, but I view that as the thick and harsh atmosphere taking a toll on visibility. There's so many pages here which are sure to bring a crazy amount of pleasure to your eyes, but one splash page is certain to drop your jaw. Funnily enough, the page has one line of dialogue: "wow me." Well, that's exactly what the page is doing to each and every reader that sets their eyes on it. It's a legitimately stellar looking book.
The Bad
I have a couple of minor gripes with the art (I noticed one eye was completely green, another was blue, and sometimes backgrounds seem rushed), but, like I just said, they're pretty minor complaints. The good vastly outweighs the bad.
The Verdict
This is yet another issue that'll make you exclaim "another!" once you finish it. Even though Aaron's hitting us with a serious overall message, he's doing it without being blatantly preachy and still manages to include a ridiculous amount of fun. THOR: GOD OF THUNDER continues to be worthy of a God. This issue is exceptionally well-written, loaded with excitement and packed with stunning artwork. Seriously, this is guaranteed to turn you into a Thor fan.
14 Comments