After two long months we finally get to return to The Wake, which wraps up the first part of the story before going on another two month break. Annoying to be sure, but let’s not let that get in the way of enjoying this issue. Is it good?
The Wake #5 (Vertigo Comics)
I’ll forego the usual opening paragraph talking about the story for this issue. This is the ending to the first part of The Wake and for the sake of avoiding spoilers, I won’t discuss what happens therein too much. It is certainly shocking, brutal, and transitions quite well into the second half of the story. You simply need to see it for yourself.
This was an action-packed and rather brutal finish to the first half of the story. It could be said it was written on the wall for how this first part would end but it still leaves an impression on you: the characters’ final fates, their dialogue, the complete tone (in particular the ending) and scope, the reveals, and so much more. All of it works quite well and will leave you thinking about what just happened.
You see this image? This is all you are getting!
I said I would mostly avoid spoilers and I will, but I will say this: The Wake #5 pulls one of my biggest pet peeves of all time story-wise. If you know what it is, you can probably predict how annoyed I was by what happened and admittedly, I was. Alas, I predicted it would come and it happened; doesn’t mean it was any less effective and if you don’t share this pet peeve of mine, you’ll be just fine here.
Last note is on the artwork itself. Sean Murphy brings its home and completely delivers on everything. He captures the mood, the tone, and emotion superbly. The final few pages, for instance? Just incredible.
9.0
- The conclusion leaves an indelible impression.
- The artwork truly delivers here.
- Oh monologues and exposition, can’t just take a break for an issue, can you?
Is It Good?
The Wake #5 is a fantastic way to end the first half of the story, despite it having a pet peeve of mine in it. I’m sorry I can’t talk about it more, but you really need to read it and experience for yourself. Worth the price of admission and I hope to see you back when it returns in February.
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