REVIEW: ‘Namor the Sub-Mariner – Conquered Shores,’ Issue #3

Namor the Sub-Mariner – Conquered Shores #3 is published by Marvel Comics, written by Christopher Cantwell, art by Pasqual Ferry, colours by Matt Hollingsworth, and letters by Joe Caramagna. Believing that the Human Torch is leading a robot uprising, Namor and Luke Cage head to Latveria for answers.

The adventure continues on new shores and with a new set of problems. As Luke and Namor enter Doom’s city, there comes more exposition, but this is a world where you want to know more. The history of the story is fascinating, especially when there is an absence of heroes. The glimmers of hope come side by side with threats and a feeling of dread. The custodian of Latveria is the biggest surprise of the series so far. Those that have been left behind after the big heroes went to space may have been forgotten, but the deep cuts lead to some excellent inclusions.

That balance of tone between hope and despair reaches extremities, with the tension constantly rising and falling. The sudden explosions of violence fit the insecure and volatile nature of the world on the verge of demise. The last page brings in a character that has been presented as both a saviour and a potential scourge of the humans left alive. 

The cast isn’t this expansive list of whoever remains on Earth. Instead, it slowly brings a couple of individuals into the fold. It allows for really personal, in-depth conversations with the few involved. This is a comic centred in both the past and the present. Namor’s relationships are being questioned and analysed in each issue, with this one focusing on his alliances with Doctor Doom. He is such a unique character, represented by each of these deep dives into those he fought against and alongside. There are confessions and apologies far too late for them to matter. The two new characters introduced are some of the more unusual figures who have been in Marvel Comics for a long time, just not at the forefront. There is now unpredictability and excitement towards who might show up next.

The art is again glorious. Most of the fighters involved are physical brawlers, such as Namor, Luke Cage, and those brought in this issue. But Ferry has made every fight so far a riveting and exhilarating battle that changes location quickly. The power that ripples from every punch is incredible. And, throughout it all, that sense of place is never lost as Latveria is torn through by battle superhumans. Half beautiful, half tragic as the Ferry’s style is excellent at, verging on cartoonish in regards to the shape of the eyes for the characters. The facial expressions are extraordinary and sometimes haunting. Both of the newcomers have horror elements to their creation, especially how Ferry illustrates them. 

The colours are brilliant at creating an atmosphere. The difference between Atlantis with its serene, calm blues and the surface world is immense. On land, the colours are angry and malevolent. When there is light, either from a superpower or from another source, it is like they have been painted or brushed onto the scene. The brightness is alarming, considering the relative darkness everywhere else on Earth, so its intensity is purposely ramped up. The lettering is very effective and always easy to read.

Namor the Sub-Mariner – Conquered Shores #3 is expanding the world whilst staying focused. It is so fascinating to see Cantwell explore the remnants of the Marvel Universe, with aged characters and broken landmarks. But the book doesn’t get ahead of itself or throw easter eggs in for the sake of it. If it appears, it has a purpose, a reason to still be alive. The art and the dialogue are all incredibly emotive and full of personality. It is so lovely that Cantwell is bringing some characters that I haven’t seen in years, tapping into decades of history for an alternate universe. 

Namor the Sub-Mariner – Conquered Shores #3 is available where comics are sold.