Before Watchmen: Minutemen #5 Review


The penultimate issue of this riveting mini-series is here, but does it honestly have a tale that’s worth telling?  Read on to find out.

The official description from DC:

“Why is mommy crying, Uncle Hollis?”

And don’t miss the latest chapter of the “Crimson Corsair” backup feature from writer/artist JOHN HIGGINS!

This is the single best issue to come forth from this corner of the Before Watchmen line-up.  What we have here is a stylistically handled and well-crafted release that simply has it all, emotions, character development, revelations and a government cover-up that will make any reader shake their head in disappointment.  If you’re looking for an excuse to turn back the clock and journey into an engaging fictional past, then this story is certainly for you.

Darwyn Cooke pens the script as his solo act continues in this latest literary work.  He seamlessly builds on his already established plot points as he accomplishes something many of these other sister-books have ultimately failed to do: find a reason for being here.  The dialogue is quite sturdy as the life and times of Hollis Mason enter into some very dark and thoroughly emotional territory.  In all honesty the most exciting thing about this jaunt is the shocking and somewhat off-putting turns the title takes as it builds toward its final outing.

I can’t say enough positive things about the unique and thoroughly engaging art by Darwyn Cooke.  Each character, every movement and all the detailed backgrounds therein are brought to believable life by some elegantly executed pencil strokes.  He handles each scene in his script with the right touch in order to convey the essence of any given story beat.  The end result is nothing short of a must own experience.

Before Watchmen: Minutemen #5 is the best release of this already sterling series.  If you’re not sold on the concept of these prequels yet that’s more than fine, but you should at least pick this book up if for no other reason than to enjoy the narrative and artistic skills on display.  Highly recommended.

4.5/5

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