Comic Review: Middlewest #4

Middlewest #4

Image Comics

Writer: Skottie Young

Artists: Jorge Corona & Jean-Francois Beaulieu

Despite being a new series, Middlewest is already primed to be Skottie Young’s best work. In just a few issues, Skottie Young, Jorge Corona, and Jean-Francois Beaulieu have crafted an imaginative world full of awe and wonder. The creative team has introduced the readers and characters to a number of creative locations, from mystical to terrifying. Now, Abel and the fox are wondering into “The most fun place in Middlewest.”

After a hectic few issues, Abel and the fox have wondered into a carnival in search of a healer. The two quickly realize that they are hungry and find themselves needing to gather food in order to survive. The issue has a few callbacks to Abel’s activities in the first chapter, making this issue feel a bit familiar at times. While the plot doesn’t see too much progression in the first act of this issue, it is still entertaining.

While I am in love with Middlewest‘s worldbuilding, the characters continue to impress me with each issue. Abel still has a lot to learn about both ethics and survival, and Fox’s mentorship makes these lessons both provocative and comical. The introduction of a couple of new characters makes the second half of this issue delightful.

This was a fun issue, but quite a few panels felt like filler at times. Of course, some of the exceptional world building and character growth wouldn’t be possible without these moments, but I still want to see the story progress just a little faster. A chase sequence felt particularly long, despite looking wonderful thanks to Jorge Corona and Jean-Francois Beaulieu’s art. I’m not saying that cutting some of these panels would be the right decision for the book, but it feels like very little has happened over the last few issues.

The art in Middlewest #4 literally shines thanks to the creative team’s drawing of the carnival. While the team has had a lot of bright outdoor environments to work with, this issue gives them an opportunity to use more color. The carnival is full of detail and personality, and not a single panel feels rushed or underdeveloped. The new character designs are wonderful, especially Wrench’s. Middlewest is still one of the best-looking books on the stands today.

Middlewest is a great coming-of-age story. Every location, character, and interaction brings a sense of wonder. Be sure to pick this one up on Wednesday.