The conclusion to this creative team’s second arc is here, but is it a successful finish?  Read on to find out.

The official description from Image:

“BREAKING DARK” CONCLUSION!

There is something terribly, terribly wrong with Jackie Estacado’s daughter Hope. But with Jenny’s fragile mental state and the empire he created for himself crumbling around him, Jackie has failed to notice that his greatest problem isn’t the Bulgarian mob, Aram the Witch King, or the ancient powers he’s allowed back into the world – it’s Hope!

If there’s one thing that can be said about the people behind this run, it’s that they’re hungry to make their tale into something special.  Somehow they’ve found the right perspective in order to make a more than storied property feel bold, new and fresh.  They’ve turned this series into the horror it was always meant to be and this latest issue is further proof of that accomplishment.

The script by David Hine is executed with precision and finesse as it pushes our protagonist to a very bleak and lonely place.  A lot of fans may look upon what happens to Jackie Estacado and honestly consider the fact that after what he did to this universe he may deserve what’s happening to him.  But trust me that sentiment will melt away as soon as you realize what’s left literally unleashed upon the world.  The author brilliantly hits the right cords with some stellar dialogue as the written word offers terror, remorse and ultimately regret.

Jeremy Haun continues to beautifully illustrate this dark but thoroughly engaging opus.  His sophisticated design sense oozes forth from ever panel, as the talent offers that right level of authenticity which is simply anchored by madness.  His character work at times may seem a bit stiff but trust me you won’t even notice this as each proverbial pencil stroke yields lush visual depth.  Simply put this is one world that will hold your attention from start to finish.

The Darkness #110 is not perfect.  But it’s still what I would call a masterful issue that’s easily worth any readers time.  Highly recommended.

4.5/5