Writer: Zeb Wells
Art: Stephen Segovia, David Curiel, VC’s Ariana Maher, Tom Muller, and Rain Beredo
Publisher: MARVEL COMICS
Price: $3.99
Release Date: May 5th, 2021
Yanking chains like the game master he is, Arcade has managed to exploit Mastermind into apprehending the HELLIONS within their own nightmares and terrors. Each frightful agony was designed by some of their greatest fears. Why? Well, for Arcade’s personal enjoyment of course! And, something else too… Confirmed! Let’s dive into HELLIONS #11 by Zeb Wells to see what else Arcade has in store for this HELLIONS team. However, they need to be careful. One false step and it could be GAME OVER!
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WHOSE MURDERWORLD IS IT REALLY?
Initially, readers will find this issue a bit confusing and choppy. However, after a second robust read-through, I’m confident things will become more clear. Before this issue of HELLIONS concludes, readers will begin to see who the real “mastermind” was the entire time… and it might not be who you think. All this reviewer can say is… it’s hard to scheme against a schemer. Confirmed? Yet, jumping back into this story after an extra-long hiatus between issues didn’t help the mild confusion. Therefore, this reviewer strongly recommends a reread of HELLIONS #10 before diving in!
GREAT EXPECTATIONS
Additionally, Wells continues his quintessential portrayal of Sinister by making him the snarky, sarcastic, cornerstone that appears to be foundational for this series. Nonetheless, readers will also discover a blossoming relationship between John Greycrow and Kwannon. One that’s been scratching at the surface for months now. And might I add, I want to see where that romance is heading! This relationship is brewing on the surface and tensions have been gradually rising from issue to issue.
I sincerely hope Wells cultivates this into something more than a passing fling. I don’t know about other readers, but something’s there. I can feel it! However, Wells continues to place a wedge between the two while simultaneously giving us something to connect with. It’s just more narrative signs that truly showcase Wells range within the book while using a band of misfits and rejects to get the point across. Come on… that’s a $&@$ good writer!
ART
Stephen Segovia is an artistic wizard. The irony is, many of his designs aren’t extremely detailed, which is what this reviewer loves the most. However, the images and illustrations are sharp and hold expressions well. Just look at the pain in Mastermind’s face or the sadistic glare in Arcade’s eyes that makes him look like the lunatic he truly is. Moreover, Segovia always knows the perfect time to jettison the focus of the issue to the foreground, drop out the background images, and render specific scenes with more intensity. Readers, the talent literally flows off each page.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Think about it… Wells and Segovia took a steaming turd sandwich of characters and practically made it a steak dinner. These characters shouldn’t work. They’re rejected misfits. The villains they’ve faced are practically B or C listers. Yet, the stories are hilarious, strong, and well designed. The illustrations are brilliant, rich, and distinct. The premise is almost insanity. But, somehow, it works!
Now again, this issue of HELLIONS was certainly a bit harder to digest at first. Still, I think you’ll find that Wells and Segovia manage to stick the landing leaving readers curious for what’s to come. I highly recommend grabbing this issue and adding this series to your pull list. HELLIONS #11 may be a difficult jumping-on point for brand new readers. Nevertheless, the next issue should start a new arc making it the perfect time to see what your missing! Let me know what you think, have a great week, and God bless!