REVIEW: ‘A Thing Called Truth,’ Issue #4

A Thing Called Truth #4 is published by Image Comics, written by Iolanda Zanfardino, with art by Elisa Romboli. After completing their tasks in the Eternal City, Mag and Dorian head off to Madrid. But even as Mag comes to acclimate to doing so many things outside of her comfort zone, someone has taken note of her disappearance.

This month’s installment in Mag and Dorian’s adventure opens with the duo’s arrival in Madrid. Upon our protagonists checking into a hotel room, we are instantly reminded of the differences in life experience the two have. While Dorian is blown over by the luxury of their temporary lodging, Mag finds it to be simply adequate. Dorian’s wonder at how soft the pillows are or the fact that her feet don’t hang off the end of the bed is overflowing with an endearing warmth.

From here, A Thing Called Truth #4 follows the ladies as they begin to ponder how they will complete their missions in Madrid. While considering this conundrum over a meal at a local restaurant, Dorian and Mag come under the scrutiny of an older couple that takes offense at “their kind” being so open about themselves in public. Not willing to let such bigotry go unanswered, Dorian concocts a perfectly Dorian way of putting the snobby couple in their place. I love seeing bigots get their comeuppance.

After completing their final mission in Madrid, one that sees Dorian embarrassed for once instead of Mag, A Thing Called Truth #4 heads off to the City of Lights herself: Paris. Here we see Mag truly begin to embrace the energy of their journey. But when one objective hits a little too close to home for Dorian, the ladies call it a night.

While this book mainly focuses on humor, Zanfardino continues to do a great job of naturally developing the starring pair. Even as jokes fly and the pair embrace one another, Mag and Dorian are seen slipping into that phase of courtship where the other almost can’t help but be cute. Every little thing is framed from a place of warmth. Even running frustrations, like Dorian’s insistence on referring to Mag as Doc, have grown into a fond moniker instead of the frustration it originally was.

The art in A Thing Called Truth #4 continues to build up the story’s characters and energy wonderfully. Romboli’s ability to deliver the humor, heart, and charm of the story continues to impress. The artist manages to utilize every aspect of the craft, combining them so each element of the panels, whether its perspective, color, or expression, always comes together to enhance the purpose of the moment. The only other I can recall art delivering its tale with such cohesive skill is Jamal Campbell’s work on Far Sector or Sana Takeda’s work on Monstress.

The final element to the book’s presentation is the lettering. The lettering throughout the book delivers the tone and energy of the characters wonderfully. The lettering’s highlight moment comes when some of the characters engage in some singing. The font and design of the letters in this sequence help to further create the energy of this moment perfectly.

A Thing Called Truth #4 continues to build up the amazing personalities and stories of the series. With only one issue remaining, I find myself waiting with eager anticipation to see how Dorian and Mag’s journey will end.

A Thing Called Truth #4 is available now wherever comics are sold.