Rai #4 Review


Will Rai be able to stay in control, now that he knows his secret? Read on to find out.

The official description from Valiant:

The most daring comic book launch of the year unleashes a cascade of shocking revelations as RAI rockets toward its second arc!

In 4001 A.D., as the nation of Japan soars above the Earth, Rai unravels the mystery of the first murder in a thousand years…and discovers his own profound connection to the crime. Everything Rai knows — about his existence, about his country, and about the benevolent Father he serves — is about to be thrown out of orbit. Do not miss this masterpiece in the making…Matt Kindt and Clayton Crain’s RAI!

Rai #4 variantValiant have been impressing with their latest series’, with the Valiant First initiative being amazing so far. It has however been Rai that has stood out the most for me, with every moment so far being pure entertainment. Having found out the secret of his existence in the last issue, we see how Rai handles the news, and whether he’ll act differently than the previous Rai’s.

Matt Kindt has been doing some wonderful work of late, as though his work at Marvel and DC has at times left a lot to be desired, his independent work has been amazing. Rai is however amongst his best work, and I’d gladly put it in the same league as his ever popular Mind MGMT series. The way that he balances emotion, and shows the inner turmoil of Rai really appealed to me, as though there were times I felt things were moving a little fast, the overall experience was pure joy. Kindt also managed to both create a symbolic ending to this first arc, whilst setting up the next, and I know I for one can’t wait for December to come.

Clayton Crain‘s art is just as impressive, with his lavish visuals being phenomenal on so many levels. Between the sensational scenery, and fabulous layouts Crain really captures the beauty of this futuristic world, giving something that’s impressive without going too far over the top. He also gives us some intense, and gory action, embodying the turmoil of Rai perfectly. In addition to this his sleek colours, and vivid pallet also give a smooth finish to his work, helping solidify this futuristic look.

Rai‘s first arc comes to a symbolic end, setting up the series’ future perfectly. Highly recommended.

OUR RATING
9.5
  • + Matt Kindt brings this first arc to a stunning conclusion.
  • + Clayton Crain’s art is phenomenal on so many levels.
  • + Rai's inner turmoil was a wonder to behold.
  • - Moved a little too quickly at times.

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