Seven issues in, and Kelly Thompson’s Absolute Wonder Woman continues its impressive run with issue #8. Following Diana’s harrowing two-issue detour through hell, this installment, featuring the highly anticipated return of artist Hayden Sherman, throws the Amazonian Princess headfirst into the enigmatic secrets of Area 41 and its Black Box Maze. Prepare for a journey into uncharted territory and the promise of a significant revelation!
The issue opens with a charming scene showcasing Diana’s resourcefulness as she dispatches a flurry of messages via a flock of birds. Sherman’s rendering of this moment is delightful, setting a visually engaging tone right from the start. We then transition to the shadowy confines of Area 41, where we are introduced to a radically reimagined Doctor Poison. Encased in a bizarre containment suit, this iteration of the classic villain is revealed to be not even human in this universe, but a sentient corporal form, a genuinely intriguing and unsettling twist!
Meanwhile, we catch up with Diana and her companions in a visually stunning sequence. Forget excavation; Diana is undertaking the monumental task of building a temple to the gods! Hayden Sherman’s artwork in this scene is truly breathtaking. The sheer detail and layering in the stonework are phenomenal, undoubtedly a labor-intensive feat that pays off in spades.
Credit: DC Comics
Kelly Thompson continues her captivating reimagining of Wonder Woman in this issue, the first part of the arc titled As My Mothers Made Me. She expertly navigates the complexities of Diana’s unique upbringing and her ongoing immersion into the often perplexing and treacherous world of humanity. Thompson’s writing remains sharp and insightful, skillfully balancing Diana’s inherent nobility with the naiveté of someone still learning the nuances of the surface world. The dialogue is crisp, and Diana’s internal monologue offers a fascinating glimpse into her evolving understanding of human nature, which she now perceives as far more intricate and “evil” than the threats she initially faced. This thematic contrast is handled with both nuance and care.
Hayden Sherman’s artistic contribution is, as always, a significant highlight. His stylized and dynamic panels perfectly capture the story’s otherworldly elements while grounding it in a visually compelling reality. The character expressions are particularly noteworthy, effectively conveying a wide range of emotions, from Diana’s determined curiosity to the unsettling aura of the newly introduced Doctor Poison. Sherman’s return to art duties after a brief absence is a welcome one, as his unique visual language is integral to the overall tone and atmosphere of Absolute Wonder Woman.
Issue #8 marks a significant turning point with the introduction of the mysterious Area 41 and its Black Box Maze. This new setting immediately injects a palpable sense of suspense and intrigue, promising to challenge Diana in unprecedented ways. The radical reimagining of Doctor Poison is a masterstroke, presented as a sentient gas contained within a specialized suit. Finally, the controlled alliance between Doctor Poison and Veronica Cale adds another layer of complexity, hinting at a larger, potentially long-term scheme.
Credit: DC Comics
The issue expertly lays the groundwork for future conflicts and mysteries. The true nature of Area 41, the secrets concealed within the Black Box Maze, and the ultimate purpose behind Cale’s manipulations involving Doctor Poison all contribute to a compelling story hook that leaves the reader eagerly anticipating the next installment. The only minor drawbacks are a somewhat abrupt jump into the present at the beginning, which can be slightly disorienting, though the story quickly catches you up. Additionally, the issue feels short, with a significant portion dedicated to Diana dealing with small mechanical spider-like bugs.
Absolute Wonder Woman #8 is a strong continuation of an already excellent series. Kelly Thompson’s compelling writing, perfectly complemented by Hayden Sherman’s distinctive and evocative artwork, delivers an engaging and thought-provoking issue. The introduction of a reimagined classic villain and the exploration of the mysteries surrounding Area 41 make this a must-read for Wonder Woman fans eager to see what exciting challenges and revelations lie ahead for the Amazonian Princess.
‘Absolute Wonder Woman’ #8 Review: Deep Dive into Area 41
Absolute Wonder Woman #8 continues Kelly Thompson’s compelling writing, perfectly complemented by Hayden Sherman’s distinctive and evocative artwork. The introduction of a reimagined classic villain and the exploration of the mysteries surrounding Area 41 make this a must-read for Wonder Woman fans eager to see what exciting challenges and revelations lie ahead for the Amazonian Princess.
