It’s been 49 days since the last Doctor Strange issue, and this issue brings the final clash between the two Stranges in the second part of “Nebraska.” We’ve seen Stephen Strange solve problems, battle foes, and face adversity after adversity thus far. However, he’s always done it as a doctor. This issue is no different, as we see the true nature of Doctor Strange. Through this story, Jed MacKay and Pasqual Ferry deliver a spectacular finale.
As the story opens up, we see something built up since issue #1: the classic team-up of Doctor Strange and Wong. Wong and Clea (and Batts) are the most important people in Stephen’s current life, and Wong has been there practically since the beginning. Seeing their dynamic change over time has only further cemented their partnership as iconic. In this issue, Wong plays an important role which helps bring resolution to the conflict.
The story has one primary tone from start to finish, and it seems to perfectly encapsulate Doctor Strange. Stephen Strange could be considered a surgeon, a magician, or even a general. But at the end of the day, Stephen, at least our Stephen, is a Doctor with tools on his tray to utilize. MacKay seems to understand this, as the issue carries a heavy weight to it. This may not be an earth-shattering story with rippling effects across the larger Marvel Universe, but it carries a perfect delivery and lands seamlessly as the ending to this arc.
Learning about General Strange’s history and motives has been imperative to the delivery of this story. MacKay’s extensive knowledge of the history of Doctor Strange was certainly paramount to raising the stakes of the story, and this issue includes an unexpected twist to the General. A major part of the success of this issue was how MacKay took a character made for this story, built on writers from the past, and provided a new perspective on him. This helps the conclusion of the story resonate as a landing success.
Pasqual Ferry and Heather Moore collaborate on the art and deliver another vibrant issue. Ferry’s lavish line work varies throughout the issue from overly detailed to soft. This helps the more intense magical moments pop and conversely makes the softer moments feel more somber. Furthermore, his work feels very expressive and carries the emotional weight of the story. In addition, Heather Moore’s colors give the story a beautiful vibrance. The series has continued to have a pastel softness to it, and this issue continues through the light intensity of the coloring. Overall, the art in this issue is spectacular.
Doctor Strange #10 is a great conclusion to the battle of the two Stranges. With some mild setup for future conflict, the issue’s overall tone is rather final and ends rather positively. This issue is a perfect ending to the latest challenge for Doctor Strange and his companions.
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