Reviews: The Magic Order and American Jesus
From Image Comics
The Magic Order returns with the fourth story arc after the revelations of the previous story, and American Jesus: Revelation concludes from Image Comics.
American Jesus: Revelation #3
Christ faces the Antichrist himself-the president of the United States-when a 2000-year-old prophecy is finally fulfilled. The third and final volume in the MILLAR/GROSS trilogy comes to a close here.
by Mark Millar (Author), Jodie Muir (Cover Art), Peter Gross (Artist)
That was an interesting conclusion to the story.
The confrontation is here, with the children of above and below meeting at the final battle.
What follows is excellent character work as the two discuss the world, the plans and what went before. It doesn’t go the way that you suspect.
After the initial prologue, which details what happened directly after the birth of the Antichrist, we get an interesting look at God’s plan, the reason for the fall and also at mankind. The opposing views are very interesting and make this a compelling read.
Further flashbacks towards the end wrap things up nicely as we get a finish and hope for the future.
The artwork plays out well, with the threats, flashbacks and confrontations being portrayed in a variety of means. I especially liked the depiction of the Seraph.
This final issue is very different to what I expected, but well played by all.
The Magic Order 4 #1
BRAND NEW ARC! The Magic Order is in turmoil after Cordelia is forced to expel her brother. Whispers of discontent persist among the other wizards. They’re tired of the rules they’ve all been living under—and now a coup is brewing.
by Mark Millar (Author), Dike Ruan (Cover Art, Artist)
Things are kicking off in the world of the Magic Order, and we get a good look at how bad things are going.
There are some very inventive deaths as the rebellion against the status quo progresses. Each of these is artfully shown, with some excellent scenes and framing. Things are looking bad, and these rebels are looking to recruit as many as possible to their cause.
Cordelia is still struggling because she had to expel her brother from the Order and magic in general, and things look to be taking a turn for the worse for her in this issue.
This was a bombastic beginning and reads well and fast. I like how it flitted from all the characters and shows what the members do, as well as the different methods of death.
A note for readers, though - I think there are some aspects in this story featuring Cordelia, which will be referred to in probably the final issue. Call me paranoid, but some aspects jumped out at me - perhaps I am not trusting enough when it comes to magic.
Time will tell…
