REVIEW: ‘Oliver,’ Issue #2

Anytime I start a comic series that had a spectacular first issue, I always worry as to how the rest of the story will play out. It’s even more worrying when a comic decides to adapt its story from such a famous piece of literature. Luckily, Oliver #2 quickly took any worry I had and turned it into genuine excitement.

Oliver #2  is published by Image Comics, written by Gary Whitta, drawn by Darick Robertson while Diego Rodriguez serves as the colorist, and the lettering is done by Simon Bowland. In this issue, Oliver must come to terms with a major revelation about where he comes from. What he decides to do next may very well put his community at risk. Elsewhere, mysterious forces are at work hunting down Oliver.

I have to say, this issue is quite the page-turner. Whitta spectacularly introduces new aspects of the world these characters live in and the dangers in it. The opening segment alone was enough to convince me that this will be an incredible and unique adaptation of Dickens’ classic novel. I’m very much looking forward to seeing how Oliver and the other IVC soldiers handle the oppressive regime that’s looking for Oliver.

Oliver learning more about his past was excellently done. It has enough tension between Oliver and his mentor Prospero that will hopefully be expanded on in future issues. After what transpired between the two of them, I’m even more interested to see if their relationship will ever be the same again.

Once again, the art style perfectly conveys a unique post-war environment. Seeing all those IVC soldiers and Oliver marching to the factories grabbed my attention. Being able to see this rather than have it be described only adds more excitement to reading this story. I could write an entire essay as to just how impactful the panel I included above is in terms of labor, which is something  I greatly appreciate.

The main conflict inside the factory involving Oliver is something I definitely did not expect. It’s his call to action which will surely shape his beliefs in the world he lives in and what the community he’s a part of means to him. Even after living with them for years, it still seems as if everyone but Prospero likes and respects Oliver. But he was still willing to help out those in need without even thinking of the consequences. That’s the definition of a real hero. I’m excited to see more elements of his hero’s journey as the story progresses.

Overall, I really enjoyed reading this comic. I read this comic at least three different times before writing this review. From the cover to the last page, I love everything about this issue. With the next issue coming out until April, I’ll definitely go back and re-read both issues that have been released. This has easily become one of my favorite comic series of all time.

Oliver #2 is available now wherever comic books are sold.