In Doctor Strange #4, Jed Mackay and Pasqual Ferry take a break from the adventures of Stephen and Clea Strange’s superheroics. Rather, Mackay partners with artist Andy MacDonald to elaborate on the W.A.N.D investigation into the magical murders occurring. In this issue, Wong teams with Pandora Peters in a fast-paced issue that focuses on some well-earned world-building for the series. Not only is Wong an important character in the world of Doctor Strange, but his partnership with Pandora and W.A.N.D has been slowly building up over the last few issues. Now, readers can finally see some of the payoffs of this.
The issue opens with a classic crime-busting that any spy organization needs. Through this, another key player in the issue is introduced. Mackay has worked in the magical side of Marvel for a long time now, and it’s clear that he understands the importance of incorporating all sorts of players into the story. After all, the world of Doctor Strange is bigger than just Stephen. Although it may be confusing why the issue pauses Clea and Stephen’s wedding invitation, this seems like the perfect time for a breather. While the assassination that kicked the series off has taken a backseat, the overarching presence of W.A.N.D. reminds readers not to get too comfortable.
Throughout the issue, Wong and Pandora Peters are put at the forefront. Mackay does a great job writing Wong, and it shows how well he understands the character. There’s a page right around the end of the issue where Wong takes center stage, and his unique perception of leading is put on display. It’s a great way to remind readers how important the character is to the story and the Doctor Strange mythos. Pandora Peters reappeared in the recent series Strange, also written by Jed Mackay, and it’s clear she’s going to be very important to the story. Not only will she seemingly balance out Wong’s approach to the super secret magic organization W.A.N.D., but she’ll also be an important character for readers to keep an eye on.
Andy MacDonald nails the art responsibilities as he partners with colorist Kike J Díaz for the issue. The two do a great job depicting the more magical parts of the issue while keeping an overall light and soft tone. Altogether, the pair shows another side of the world of Doctor Strange.
Overall, Doctor Strange #4 is another strong issue in the series. Although there is a brief pause from the titular character’s main presence, Wong and Pandora carry an important role in the series. Throughout this story, it becomes more clear just what that role is and how it may play out in the coming issues.
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