Comic Review: Immortal Hulk (2018-) #27

Immortal Hulk #27

Marvel Comics

Writer: Al Ewing

Artist: Joe Bennett

Building on the discourse from the last issue, #27 of Immortal Hulk kicks Bruce Banner’s plans into high gear. He is planning a raid on a key Roxxon facility, the opening salvo in his war on the human world. Meanwhile, Dario Agger talks to his board about Roxxon’s plans and about their concerns over Banner. Their parallel perspectives come to a head in an issue full of interesting ideas and dynamic action.

After his cameo at the end of the last issue, this is a meatier appearance from the Minotaur CEO of Roxxon. He is an imposing figure, and Bennett plays with his physicality effectively. The power dynamic in panels where he dwarfs his board members is great. His physical form is scary, but his words are scarier. His speech about controlling the narrative to make a profit is chilling and all too real.

Meanwhile, Bruce goes ahead with his attack on the Roxxon facility despite Dr. McGowan’s cautions. The last issue he was talkative, this issue he’s quieter, more determined. Even when he transforms into Devil Hulk, he’s angry, but it’s a controlled rage. Banner and Devil are cooperating more than ever before. He knows exactly what he’s doing, even when the action heats up later. I won’t spoil what happens, but this issue builds to a final page that marks a fairly significant change in the way Hulk operates going forward. We have entered the second act of Ewing’s run and it is clear he still has many surprises in store.

The art team continues to be consistently stellar. Bennett’s pencils bring out the fear and tension in the boardroom scenes, and the classic “Hulk Smash” action has never looked better. I’m not sure why there are four inkers on this issue (Ruy José, Belardino Brabo, Marc Deering, and Sean Parsons), but they keep it consistent and add the eerie shade that this book usually has. Paul Mount’s evocative colours perfectly compliment the linework, adding a rich and grotesque palette. I have to give a shout-out to letterer Cory Petits too, as Agger’s jagged font fits his physicality nicely.

I don’t know how many ways I can tell you that this is one of the best, if not the best, books Marvel is putting out, but I’ll say it again. Ewing continues to weave a compelling and horrifying tale, with one of the most consistent art teams in the business to bring his stories to life.