ADVANCE REVIEW! Michael Turner’s Fathom: Kiani (vol.3) #3

Does this latest release dive deep or simply stick to shallow waters? Read on to find out.

The official description from Aspen:

Kiani has risen!

Kiani severs her ties with Luzhin and the Volna after discovering the true dangers such a powerful research facility is capable of. However, her escape does not go according to plan—as the Russians prove they are not easily dissuaded from their attempts to become the world’s greatest nation—even if it means killing her in the process!

This was easily the most entertaining entry in this volume. It carried the players through the cogs of the plot while maintaining a forward sense of momentum. As the creative team offered lots of worthwhile details, such as a reunion and even a double-cross, I closed the book eagerly anticipating the next round of this water based shindig.

The script by Vince Hernandez is rock solid, and most certainly strong enough to prove not just its own worth but the purpose of yet another return for its titular character. Kiani, when she was first introduced, sparked my interest but quickly became a cast member that seemed forgettable to the greater narrative. Even so, thanks in large part to the events that took place in 2013 and now spillover into 2014, she’s more necessary. And in this outing we have an author that showcases that fact without feeling too heavy handed, despite delivering some corny bits of dialogue.

The visual component of this comic book is just as strong as the written word. Giuseppe Cafaro captures the grace, beauty and ultimate destruction of this warrior with a mission. But its the subtle facial ques and slight changes in demeanor that really sell the key moments found within the confines of this release. Hats off to Wes Hartman who gives each panel just enough color to make instances functional and without a doubt memorable.

Michael Turner’s Fathom: Kiani (vol.3) #3 may not raise the bar for this particular property, but it does rise to the occasion. In the end it yields plenty of material for its already dedicated audience as it easily comes recommended.