Written by Cecil Castellucci
Illustrated by Marley Zarcone
Published by DC Comics
This is a delightful comic book that again is coming to an end. That’s a sad thing as it’s one of the best on the stands. Maybe Castellucci and Zarcone can collaborate on a future comic book? They are both wonderful creators who work beautifully together.
This issue continues the story with Shade without a heart. It begins in a very psychedelic fashion with Shade outside of herself. It’s wonderfully drawn by Zarcone and it’s full of emotion.
The emotion Castellucci is focused on this arc is one of regret.
This issue shows how Shade has tried and failed to assimilate into this world and the effects her efforts has had on others.
Shade encounters old friends but they have moved on in a sense. They also seem rather hurt by Shade’s efforts in the past.
Castellucci gives us glimpses and it feels like a kinder David Lynch film. You may not always know what is happening but you can always feel what Castellucci is going for. It works on a different level than most comics.
The ending is there to demonstrate how much Shade has grown and changed. It’s not a simple comic with simple answers. It requires more from you. Yet, it’s so breezy and well drawn it never feels like a chore.
I don’t know where this comic is going. I don’t know how it will end. I don’t know if I’ll even be able to explain it to someone when it’s wrapped up. But I do know I’ll be thoroughly enthralled when it happens.
RATING: A
