Comics / Comic Reviews / Marvel Comics

1602 #3

By Loretta Ramirez
October 12, 2003 - 11:06

Rain clatters and lightning crackles; startled or inspired, the characters move. Movement, in fact, is the theme for Part 3 of Neil Gaiman and Andy Kubert’s 1602. In this continuing saga of Marvel superheroes transposed to Renaissance Europe, secrets begin to unravel only to reveal further secrets.

In this deeply layered story, Gaiman’s pacing is perfect. Answers are barely plucked before new questions bud in their place. The effect is swift plot progression. The Grand Inquisitor is a mutant, so why hunt fellow mutants? John Grey is a girl, but why hide this fact in a place of sanctuary? The queen favors Von Doom, so why arrange her murder? Virginia Dare has shape-changing powers, but how does she generate a global storm?

The most noteworthy art scenes in this issue also deal with movement. In the form of a giant owl, Virginia must be captured. As she swoops towards Doctor Strange, the strength of her wings blows man and candles across the dark castle parapet. The scene is so masterfully drawn that the force of wind seems concrete. Another impressive scene is a fast-paced fight between Sir Nicholas Fury and a prisoner.

Overall: A-

Last Updated: January 17, 2025 - 08:20