The slow reveal of what The Maker does in another universe continues in Ultimate Invasion #3 this week. It’s Jonathan Hickman and Bryan Hitch’s gamble to, most likely, bring back the Ultimate universe! We already know it’s coming, so how does this series launch it? Or, if you’re a character-driven reader, how does Tony Stark’s dad play into The Maker’s plans? We find out today!
In the last issue, The Maker had the world’s most powerful heroes help him fight off an army of heroes from the far future. Clearly in a state of shock, Howard Stark buries his friend, Obadiah Stane, as his son, Tony, watches on. Even if you start reading here, readers will note the strange twist in characters right from the start. The Maker has been meddling with this universe and has crafted a scenario where he has ultimate power, and in this issue, we learn how he’s convinced the world’s heroes to enact a kind of peace.
I say “a kind of peace” because, as explained here, it’s more manipulation of mass populations. Ignoring the fact that Hitch draws The Maker with an evil grin and ulterior motives, the plan makes some sense. Conspiracy theorists will certainly see the logic behind it, and it’s explained well. The first third of this issue explains how heroes like Hulk and Magik participate in theater to make the public think there are good and bad guys. Given The Maker is ultra smart, it’s interesting to see a geopolitical angle on the supervillain strategy.
Howard Stark is in a tight spot here.
Credit: Marvel
At the center of it all is Howard, who wants to ensure the world is still safe for his teenage son but also doesn’t like what The Maker is up to. Hitch’s art supplies a super detailed and grounded feel to everything, be it Howard’s dismayed look or the incredible vehicles at his disposal. Even though much of this book involves characters explaining things to Howard, Hitch keeps your interest up with Dutch angles and incredibly detailed backdrops. The room in which Howard learns the truth of peace and war has flowery crown molding and art frames that seem to crisscross and create a chaotic effect. Given the conspiracy’s dark and complex, the visuals match the truth.
Also supplied here are Hickman’s classic data pages and chapter breaks, giving the comic an extra glint of importance. A map of the world and the centers of power is an intriguing notion that helps convey The Maker truly has taken charge of things. And yet, he needs Howard Stark’s help. The cliffhanger isn’t a game-changer per se, but it does continue to show how far this world has tumbled from the 616 universe. One can guess who it might be under the mask, and Hitch supplies a cool riff on a classic villain.
If you’re expecting tons of action, this issue is not it. The slow boil of the series continues to rear its head as a negative, which is hard to swallow given the $5.99 price tag. That said, it’s nice knowing this is only four issues instead of a cash grab of six or 12 all to sell filler issues! There’s only one more issue to go and it’s quite clear the smartest minds in the universe are being drawn together for some kind of final battle.
There’s no denying Ultimate Invasion is an epic chapter in a larger masterpiece. The quality of writing, big ideas, and exceptional art combine into something that feels important and a cornerstone of what comes next in the Marvel universe.
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