Comic Review: Deadly Class #41

Deadly Class #41

Image Comics

Writer: Rick Remender

Artists: Wes Craig & Jordan Boyd

Another month, another issue of Deadly Class. Deadly Class #41 is the second issue in “Bone Machine and is filled with the politics that consume King’s Dominion. This issue isn’t as action-packed as the previous issue and instead spends time developing the characters. Still, it feels like something big is coming up, and before long the status quo will burst.

Despite the lack of bloodshed in this issue, Rick Remender ensures that it is never boring. The game that Marcus is playing is clearly affecting himself, Maria, and Saya. Even worse, a couple of surprises by the headmaster throws a wrench into Marcus’ plans. The end result is a messy issue where Marcus struggles with his situation and the thoughts that haunt him.

This is a notably wordy issue, utilizing both typical comic book storytelling methods and Remender’s trademark prose on the side of the pages. All of the text isn’t unwelcome, as it develops Marcus and also injects flavor into the book. Remender does a great job of using references to breathe life into Deadly Class‘s setting. Historical events and pop culture fill the monologues and pages, adding style to the book whether you are familiar with all of them or not.

This is a deep issue where Marcus and a few other characters are constantly fighting demons. Everyone feels human in this book. No one is static, no one is boring, and everyone has a story. Remender has the uncanny ability to convey hurt and hopelessness in pages more than any other writer. Trauma has always been a theme in this series, but it feels like it is being explored more than ever in this arc. Still, the pain never feels overbearing in Deadly Class, which I appreciate.

Wes Craig is still Wes Craig in this issue. His art complements Remender’s style in the same splendid way that we are all used to. Simple but creative layouts make the most out of Remender’s wordy script. Despite all of the white space, no page feels lazy due to the amount of detail put into each panel. What’s even better is the white space enhances the storytelling to a degree. Jordan Boyd’s use of multiple palettes always matches what’s on the page. The colors evoke the necessary emotions and add layers to the narrative.

Deadly Class #41 is quiet but evokes thought from readers. It’s a reminder that this isn’t just a wild action series, but a powerful emotional series. This is another solid issue in one of the best ongoing series out right now.

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