As this latest era grows in size and scope, can we find enough substance to make this journey worthwhile in the end?  Read on to find out.

The official description from Image:

A HISTORY OF WAR—AND THE ORIGIN OF THE DEAD ZONE!

Jim’s struggle to control his new life is put into perspective as Cogliostro reveals the secrets of the Dead Zone. From the temptations of Eden to the wars of today, the whole of human history has been tainted with conflict. While Cogliostro’s motives may not be clear, his first lesson for Jim just may change his life…and alter the course of Heaven and Hell’s eternal war… FOREVER!!!

There’s a simple fact that my fellow fanboys and fangirls need to understand about this creative team: they never cease to impress.  I’ve picked up Spawn on and off again over the years, sampling the different forces behind it, and I have to say this is my favorite era.

And this latest release is case and point, as Todd McFarlane unleashed yet another script that jumps off the page in a way that’s sure to make us all think. You may have been expecting me to say something more scintillating but the truth is we’re faced with a deep conversation.  It goes to the roots of humanity and beyond, as the author displays his literary prowess through the voice of the one and only Cogliostro.  By the conclusion, we’re given a lot of narrative meat but there’s very little action to help wash it fhidown.

Szymon Kudranski will leave you speechless as he tackles mankind with a supernatural twist.  He uses familiar imagery to call attention to important events, while illustrating the underlying terror of these revelations.  It’s what makes the whole affair more than worthwhile as the talent effortlessly builds something that’s destined to be memorable to all who get to view it.  I was particularly taken with the pictures depicting known world leaders, simply put, he his the right tone.

Spawn #238 is another comic that offers up plenty of substance while it continues to thrive on its roots.  Recommended.

4/5