After the shocking revelation of the first issue of Jed Mackay’s new Doctor Strange series, it’s time for the good doctor to visit a new patient, and it’s not the one you think. Reunited with his wife Clea, things couldn’t be better for the pair. And given that, this issue does something readers have yearned for: more of the happy couple working together. In true Doctor Strange spirit, this issue collides both the doctor part of Stephen’s life with the mystic arts for a journey to save a life!
The issue begins with the Stranges visiting Moon Knight, and things aren’t looking good. As is often the case, life is in danger, and only the Sorcerers Supreme are up to the task. It’s a bit of a shift from where the last issue left off, but it also succeeds in showing the passage of time since then. As is often the case, comics tend to have each issue pick up where the last left off. However, much of the weight of the issue’s opening sequence is further intensified by the fact time has passed since a certain death occurred. Nonetheless, the story moves along seamlessly, as the focus is on the mission at hand.
Artist Pasqual Ferry is partnered with Matt Hollingsworth on colors for this issue, making for a soft tone across the pages. It’s not necessarily the most detailed art, but it’s balanced by a realistic look for the characters which helps bring them to life. Additionally, Hollingsworth is a blessing on this issue, with colorful splashes that make some of the more mystical elements pop. There’s a specific page in the second half of the issue where Strange and Clea are faced with a shocking magical revelation that is drawn and highlighted in such a way that it looks like an X-ray. Overall, the art helps make the story more enjoyable.
Overall, Doctor Strange #2 is a fun issue that brings a new level of suspense to the series. A majority of the story is filled with an adventure that, although light in nature, holds some depth to it. It may seem a little out of the left field after the last issue, but it is clear MacKay has a plan for Stephen and Clea. What this plan has in store is yet to be seen, but it’s sure to be exciting. This makes for an enjoyable story that later raises the stakes in its final pages.
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