Strange Adventures #3 is published by DC Comics, written by Tom King, art by Mitch Gerads and Evan “Doc” Shaner with letters by Clayton Cowles. As Mr. Terrific continues his investigation, Adam Strange begins to worry that everything isn’t all it appears to be. And while he makes some inquiries of his friends in the superhero community his wife, Alanna isn’t going to let things proceed without getting her own say in as well.
Strange Adventures #3 begins immediately after the interview Mr. Terrific begins with Strange and Alanna at the end of the last issue. This is done deliberately to keep this key moment from the readers’ view. The importance of this talk is clearly critical. Something Mr. Terrific says rubs the couple the wrong way. Sending Adam on an investigation of his own into what possible ulterior motives Terrific might be harboring. And yet, whether his concern is warranted is unknown to the reader.
The choice by King to leave the reader out of this moment is frustrating. But not in a bad way. It imparts to the story of Strange Adventures #3 the all too real feeling of being unsure of the truth. Something comic book readers are unaccustomed to. This striping of the expected omniscience from the reader left me feeling mildly uncomfortable. But, as anyone who has read King’s earlier works can attest, your comfort probably isn’t high on his list of concerns.
While the scene in the here and now unfolds, we also get transported back in time to Raan to further follow the struggle Strange and his wife experienced in the past. This sequence comprised of ritual combat for Strange to overcome while Alanna looks on. Alanna’s attitude during this sequence further built upon my feelings of discomfort in Strange Adventures #3. Everything about her felt off. Lending me to also question her indignation over Terrific’s investigation. Though the two moments are not linked that I have yet to see. But it certainly highlights the influence character can have on how we perceive and judge people.
The art by Gerads and Shaner here is perfect for its story. The illustrations lend the narrative a noir kind of feel. Further reinforcing that there is more to the story than the reader is getting. This noir impression is ever more evident thanks to the amazing colorwork in a particular poolside sequence. It’s is the perfect fusion of simplicity and skill.
Finally, the lettering work in Strange Adventures #3 is a solid presentation of the craft. Cowles delivers the story with all the skill I’ve come to expect from this veteran of the field.
As it stands, Strange Adventures #3 continues to deepen the plot of its ongoing narrative. By denying the reader of key information there are huge questions that need answering. The biggest is whether or not King and the company will deliver on all the suspense being built here. But as this story continues, my need to learn these answers is growing.
Strange Adventures #3 is available now wherever comics are sold.
Strange Adventures
TL;DR
As it stands, Strange Adventures #3 continues to deepen the plot of its ongoing narrative. By denying the reader of key information there are huge questions that need answering. The biggest is whether or not King and the company will deliver on all the suspense being built here. But as this story continues, my need to learn these answers is growing.
