Review -WitchBlade #173

Review by Paul Fiander
When you jump into a long running series it can be daunting to say the least thankfully Witchblade has a previously in section on the first page guiding you to the relevant events to this particular issue. It works really well to give you an idea of the structure of the universe the story is set in. For instance we know that although the earth seems normal, Angelus and magical artefacts permeate the world. This gives the narrative a whole new direction in which to take Sara our focal character. The back matter also supports the new reader as it gives a detailed account of one of the books main players in the Magdalene sisters.

Sara’s background is interesting as she was a New York police detective but came into possession the Witchblade causing her life to alter until she was able to handle the blade over to the Vatican. She then believed she was free until there was an attempt made on her life using the pivotal Witchblade. Although lots of details in the background are missing the emphasis is apparent in the writing. The story feels simple but full of history and tension; this is helped by the strong willed Sara especially with her interactions with her old boss (the town Mayor).

Art wise the book feels it has a consistent level of quality with a few high points. These mostly revolve around the Angelus and Laura Braga (artist) together with Betsy Gonia (colours) do a great job giving this character in particular a sense of power. The art does appear at its best when the characters are static, which is the majority of the time. It may just be this issue but motion in the art does not seem to be a major tool in the visual narrative.

I would consider this a great jumping on issue as the story is well explained and the narrative contained with the front and back matter gives you a great idea of Sara’s on-going struggle. However it must be stressed this is a dialogue heavy issue with very little action I still found it intriguing and hope to catch up with Witchblade in the next issue.

Issue Rating; 3.5/5

For a little more from Image you could try

Undertow #1

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Rat Queens #1

Meet the most awesome foursome since the Beatles and jump in form the start of their comic world domination.
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