The psychic invasion escalates in Absolute Martian Manhunter #2 from Deniz Camp and Javier Rodríguez. Watch as the otherworldly being calling itself ‘the Martian’ continues to warp John Jones’ mind. The Absolute Universe’s wildest hero gets even stranger in this soul-baring, mind-bending issue. Just how wild can things possibly get for John? Let’s find out!
The comic throws us straight into John Jones’s breakdown as a mysterious, smoke-like entity insists he isn’t crazy. This being identifies as “Martian”—not from Mars, but alien in a way humans would comprehend—and reveals humanity is under attack from a “psycho-toxic” buildup of fear and paranoia. The being grants John “Martian Vision,” a form of mind-reading brought to life through Javier Rodríguez’s stunningly colorful and trippy art, and declares its mission is to hunt, eliminate this influence, and heal the world. Writer Deniz Camp effectively grounds this fantastical plot in anxieties disturbingly close to our reality.
The story then shifts abruptly to a harrowing mass shooting scene, where the gunman targets those he deems “alien invaders,” echoing real-world extremist rhetoric with chilling accuracy. Rodríguez depicts this horror skillfully, rendering the gunman in stark black while the chaos he causes is literally sketched onto his form in red—a visually arresting and thoughtful approach. This intense sequence culminates in a powerful cliffhanger, ending the issue with a bang that leaves you contemplating the story’s themes and effectively setting up a formidable adversary for the Martian MindF****. It’s a potent conclusion that builds strong anticipation for the next installment.
Credit: DC Comics
Absolute Martian Manhunter #2 picks up immediately after the first issue, keeping the pace strong as it delves into darker themes. Writer Deniz Camp layers intriguing ideas that are not only unique in their presentation but feel very relevant to today’s world.
The comic delves into heavy themes like paranoia, hate, and human cruelty. I particularly appreciated how J’onn’s Martian powers were used in these moments. Seeing victims’ final thoughts, wishes, and regrets through his telepathy creates poignant, personal, and moving scenes. It’s great work by Camp, brought beautifully to life by Javier Rodríguez’s illustrations. This ability to witness entire life experiences also serves as a powerful story tool, especially when J’onn accesses a gunman’s thoughts and uses them against him in a compelling way.
Artistically, Javier Rodríguez is simply outstanding. His command of visual plotting, panel placement, and perspective elevates every page – the book is magnitudes better because of his contribution. There’s no limit to the praise his skills deserve. I especially love how he depicts the Martian Manhunter appearing in multiple places and forms, rendered with fantastic and sometimes even funny detail.
Camp’s flashbacks and memories of John’s life are also a highlight. It’s not entirely clear whether John is actively recalling these memories or if they’re surfacing randomly, but it’s an interesting way to learn more about him—his childhood and life—in a non-linear fashion that makes him feel quite relatable.
Credit: DC Comics
The book’s colors remain a vibrant visual feast, with a sheer range of blended shades that makes the month-to-month wait worthwhile. The lettering is equally impressive; the repeated “BLAM” from the gunshots effectively conveys impact and dread. Furthermore, the generally colorful lettering adds visual interest and an element of fun, creating a stark contrast with the serious subject matter.
Absolute Martian Manhunter #2 effectively tackles heavy, real-world themes like paranoia and mass violence. With relevant writing by Deniz Camp and Javier Rodríguez’s stunningly vibrant and impactful artwork, the issue builds intrigue with poignant character moments and ends on a powerful cliffhanger. If you are not reading Absolute Martian Manhunter, what the f***?
‘Absolute Martian Manhunter’ #2 Review: The Psychic Invasion Escalates!
Absolute Martian Manhunter #2 effectively tackles heavy, real-world themes like paranoia and mass violence. With relevant writing by Deniz Camp and Javier Rodríguez’s stunningly vibrant and impactful artwork, the issue builds intrigue with poignant character moments and ends on a powerful cliffhanger. If you are not reading Absolute Martian Manhunter, what the f***?
