“Love is transformative, Steve. Always” – Diana
Phillip Creary February 5, 2025
Summary
With the Tetracide unleashed, the battle for survival reaches a fever pitch! Diana, facing insurmountable odds, throws herself into the fray. Crimson lasso blazing, buster swords flashing, and a masterful combination of both forming a lethal, whirling weapon – she fights with every fiber of her being. Yet, even amidst this breathtaking display of power, it’s the profound sacrifice that defines this issue. Kelly Thompson’s narrative and Hayden Sherman’s art combine to forge an unforgettable moment, enshrining Absolute Wonder Woman’s ultimate act of heroism. But will her sacrifice be enough to vanquish the ancient evil that threatens all? Let’s find out!
Credits: DC Comics
Inside Gateway City’s Natural History Museum, Barbara Minerva—or is it Absolute Cheetah?—is mesmerized by Wonder Woman’s struggle against the Tetracide. This pivotal moment marks the first time Diana is formally called “Wonder Woman” in this world. Following a tense standoff where she buys time for the city, Diana tells the devastating truth about the Tetracide: it erases fear, replacing it with a fatal attraction. People willingly walk into its grasp. Diana, of course, refuses to accept this fate.
We then shift to the Wild Isle of Hell, Diana and Steve facing a monstrous hydra, with Diana’s unwavering strength forcing its surrender. Their dialogue reveals Steve’s deep longing for home. The exchange ignites an idea in Diana, a plan to send Steve back. It’s a plan that requires a significant sacrifice, one that reflects the core of Wonder Woman’s heroism. Returning to the present, Diana’s battle with the Tetracide reaches a critical point. With few options left, she makes a daring, potentially devastating move to save Gateway City.
Credits: DC Comics
Kelly Thompson’s “Absolute Wonder Woman” is a masterclass in showcasing Diana’s greatness. Her passion, ambition, and sheer creativity are evident on every page. Thompson pulls out all the stops, highlighting not just Diana’s combat prowess, but her unwavering character. She embodies the heroic ideal, the strength we seek in leaders and loved ones. Diana’s ultimate sacrifice, made without hesitation, perfectly captures why we adore her.
Hayden Sherman’s art is equally impressive. The sheer scale of the Tetracide is terrifying, even in its relative inactivity. Sherman’s design evokes a palpable sense of danger. His dynamic paneling and layouts convey motion and grace, while the characters’ vivid, emotive expressions are a testament to his skill. And that meta moment with Barbara yelling, “I’m in the book!”? Brilliant.
Jordie Bellaire again demonstrates her exceptional skill in bringing Sherman’s art to life with vibrant color. The subtle but powerful shift in Diana’s eye color, from blue to red, effectively conveys her transition into battle mode. Bellaire’s nuanced use of red, showcasing its diverse applications across various elements, is a testament to her technical mastery. Becca Carey’s lettering choices, particularly the onomatopoeic ‘Squuulcch’ and ‘Sliiice’ of Diana’s blade entering and leaving the creature also enhances the immersive quality of the art.
Absolute Wonder Woman #3 delivers a powerful narrative of Diana’s ultimate sacrifice, showcasing her unwavering heroism. Kelly Thompson’s writing and Hayden Sherman’s dynamic art combine for an emotionally resonant issue, emphasizing Diana’s strength and compassion. The story masterfully balances intense action with poignant character moments, highlighting Diana’s willingness to give everything for others. The issue is a visual and emotional triumph, solidifying Wonder Woman’s legendary status.
Absolute Wonder Woman #3 delivers a powerful narrative of Diana’s ultimate sacrifice, showcasing her unwavering heroism. Kelly Thompson’s writing and Hayden Sherman’s dynamic art combine for an emotionally resonant issue, emphasizing Diana’s strength and compassion. The story masterfully balances intense action with poignant character moments, highlighting Diana’s willingness to give everything for others. The issue is a visual and emotional triumph, solidifying Wonder Woman’s legendary status.
Rating 10 “Kaboom!”