Wildfire #4 Review

Will Wildfire spread it’s clever developments into an enthralling conclusion? Or will the flame wither away? Read on to find out.

The official description from Top Cow:

THE CONCLUSION OF THE INAUGURAL WILDFIRE ARC! The government is prepared to firebomb Los Angeles to prevent the spread of the genetically altered plants that are growing out of control and destroying the city. How will Dan Miller stop what he’s helped unleash and the government from destroying LA?

Wildfire has grown from a rather clever concept to a very exciting series, with the first volume coming to an end. Being full of amazing character development, and some very dramatic moments this closing chapter really shows the dire moments that our characters are in, with the countdown scenario only adding tension on top of tension.

Matt Hawkins has been doing a fabulous job with this great creator owned series. The way he manages to balance the drama and reality of the situation that Dan is in is what really impressed me, as not only do we get some very thrilling moment, but there’s never a point where it becomes the kind of over the top flashiness that you’d expect from a Hollywood blockbuster. Despite this I did find the ending of this story a little anticlimactic, as though realistic, it just lacked energy. I did however like how things set-up next years sequel.

Laura Šejić‘s artwork has been amazing from start to finish. Yes I’ve found her unique layouts a little jarring at times, and yes there are moments like this in this issue. That however is a very minor quibble, and takes nothing away from the highly detailed art, and wonderful scenery. In this issue she also continues to build a sense of dread, with there being one moment in particular that had me on the edge of my seat. Additionally her colours also give a rich finish to this tale, with the colours irradiating at every moment.

Wildfire has been a marvellous series so far, with this first volume coming to a relatively exciting end (if you discount the way it actually ended). It also sets up the future of the series nicely, though with such a big gap fans will need to be a little patient. Highly recommended.