Star Trek: Khan #5 Review

What will Khan do now that he’s learned the truth? Read on to find out.

The official description from IDW:

It’s the climactic chapter of the origin of STAR TREK’s greatest villain! But how did he come to be called “John Harrison”? How did his vendetta against Admiral Marcus and Section 31 begin? All is revealed in this all-new story overseen by STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS writer/producer Roberto Orci!

Khan Noonien Singh is possibly one of the most prolific Star Trek villains of all time, with Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal only enhancing him as a villain. It’s as Spock would say, “logical” that they’d make a mini-series based around this captivating character, and what better way than to show the event prior to Into Darkness.

Mike Johnson manages to give a fitting end for this mini-series but I can’t help but feel that there was some missed opportunities. In saying that as the main part of this story takes place prior to Into Darkness you don’t want it to overshadow the film, as there’d be questions as to why no one bar Admiral Marcus knew he was a threat. Johnson does however do justice to Khan as a character, showing his emotions and reactions towards Marcus’ deception perfectly, with Khan’s trial sequences exuding intensity. Another thing that Johnson gets right is the ending, as without spoiling anything he handles it in such a way that doesn’t affect the film in any shape or form.

David Messina produced some wicked art on this issue, with it feeling as if I was watching a episodic continuation of the film. The immense detail along with the perfect characteristics made this a perfect fit for the recent film, with the intensity of the layouts adding more oomph. Messina also gave great impact through the scenery, as whether it was simplistic blocked out colour or lavish interiors it gave the perfect tone for each panel. Merge all this with the fabulous colours of Claudia ScarletGothica and visually this is a comic that any Star Trek fan will love, irrelevant of whether you like the story.

Star Trek: Khan #5 is a fitting end to Khan’s origin, as despite there being some missed opportunities it showed the powerful presence and depth of this enigmatic character perfectly. Recommended.