Prophet #43 Review

Is it just me, or does it feel like forever since Prophet was on the shelves? Well, it’s back. The only question is if Prophet #43 manages to sustain interest?

The official description from Image:

An Empire Red-Mother is sent to investigate a fallen Prophet arc.

Prophet #34 is complicated, segmented and, at times, a little slow. Still, it’s good to be back. There is a very unique setting and atmosphere here that the issue instantly recaptures, entering into a world of science fiction stuck somewhere between beautiful and grotesque. This is seen in the story itself, opening with a look into Hiyohonian before getting back into the present. The two contradict each other well and adds more depth to the title.

In terms of this writing, there’s a definite feeling Brandon Graham and Simon Roy have a set direction in mind. The main characters are well known and being explored in more detail. While the main plot line of Troll versus Badrock is only touched upon briefly, Prophet #34 nonetheless feels significant.

Visually, Prophet #34 is a strong as it’s ever been. This issue has two different art styles, with Bayard Baudoin, Giannis Milonogiannis,  Simon Roy, Matt Sheean and Malachi Ward on art duties, with colors from Joseph Bergin III, Bayard Baudoin, Matt Sheelan and Malachi Ward providing colors. That’s a lot of people on one issue, but the art works. Most the issue is the regular style readers are use to, but the new approach – mostly seen in Hiyohonian’s sections – is simply beautiful. It oozes detail and is strikingly vibrant. For the rest of the issue, it still showcases the strange and wonderful designs and settings Prophet is known for.

In short, it might not always make the most sense, but this is an example of Prophet at its best. It’s beautiful to look at, interesting to read and enough variation to ensure nothing stays the same for too long. Of course, the downside to this is that it never is friendly for new readers, as it tends to dive into its own background and setting far too easily.