Writer: Jeff Parker
Art: Ciro Cangialosi
Publisher: Dynamite comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: February 28th, 2024
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THE DISPATCH
As we saw last issue, Negaduck has finally gained his prize, the Gauntlet of King Midas, with the help of the rest of the Fearsome Five. It’s interesting to see Negaduck finally achieve his goal, without interference from Darkwing Duck or other heroes. We see him kind of soften up a bit in his personality in Negaduck #4. He’s still evil, but he doesn’t seem to be as vitriolic and hotheaded towards his fellow rogues (particularly the rest of the Fearsome Five) as he usually seems to be, or at least it’s slightly downplayed. Some might consider this to be somewhat out of character for Negaduck though.
Nevertheless, he is still at odds with some of the other villains. This issue sees the return of both Professor Moliarty and Taurus Bulba, who both appeared in the first issue of this series. Although this series stars Negaduck, this issue really showcases Taurus Bulba as a master tactician and proves him to be a rival rogue to Negaduck, and it is fitting since they are two of Darkwing Duck’s greatest adversaries. There’s even a nod to Duckburg, home of Scrooge McDuck and friends, although “burg” is misspelled as “berg”. This issue makes good use of flashbacks and really shows how events that happened previously in this issue have led up to the current events of this issue, presenting a big plot twist for the titular villain.
ART
The art in Negaduck #4 continues to be good. It is very reflective of the Darkwing Duck animation style. Cangialosi captures the facial expressions of the characters well. Negaduck is especially emotive when he is depicted as angry in an unhinged state, and there are different colors around his pupils. There are many bright colors too that really make the art pop. This is particularly apparent as many characters and object are turned to gold. A standout page is when Negaduck turns the giant guardian creature to gold.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Negaduck #4 continues the story well and presents many plot twists. It pits two of St. Canard’s most ruthless rogues against each other, showcasing the cold, calculating, cutthroat nature of both criminals. It manages to present a compelling story with all villains and not a hero in sight. It points to the fact that fictional villains often have staying power and can hold their own in a compelling story, without the need for a hero to challenge them. Darkwing’s foes certainly show this to be true. If you love Darkwing Duck villains and clever plot twists, you will enjoy this issue.