After a kind of reset with The Department of Truth #0, The Department of Truth #34 kicks a new story arc into gear where the U.S. government is in the conspiracy theory business. Doesn’t sound so far-fetched, but how do you combat it? You get the sense of where things are going after reading the latest issue.
The Department of Truth #34 opens with Cole Turner hiding out in an off-the-grid cabin. He’s solemn, though happy enough with his partner. In the basement is something not solemn at all, and longtime fans will be pleased to see its return. Artist Martin Simmonds brings the ultra-creepy painting to a high level with these monster depictions, reminding us that truly awful things live under the bed at night.
Meanwhile, writer James Tynion IV shows us the utter gutting the Department of Truth is going through. Ruby stands tough, but longtime fans will be pleased to see familiar faces as well. All the while, a character seen in the zero issue roams the halls, very much reminiscent of the QAnon Shaman. He’s quite haunting, especially in his confidence. It could even trigger you; it’s just that visually triggering.
The atmosphere is amazing in this issue.
Credit: Image
Outside of that, not much can be said without spoiling, though most of it is table setting. One can see the gears moving and guess at what comes next, but the story here feels a touch slow as it keeps its card close to the vest.
This issue continues Scott Snyder and Joshua Hixson’s backup involving an Elvis entity. Or maybe Elvis was always a conspiracy? Snyder does a good job of showing how Elvis could fit into this world, with some believable logic, given Elvis’s many iconic looks. Woven into the story is an evident love for Elvis, as the Department of Truth agent reflects on the genius of Elvis.
This chapter also features plenty of action, which Hixson pulls off splendidly. The visual of bullets piercing Elvis is quite cool, and the trippy reveal works thanks to Hixson’s skillful portrayal of Elvis’ likeness.
The Department of Truth #34 is a chilling, carefully composed relaunch of the main narrative, blending political paranoia, returning nightmares, and new threats rooted in real-world conspiracy culture. While it’s clearly setting the chessboard for what’s next, its eerie tone, character reintroductions, and knockout backup story make it a compelling new beginning for longtime fans.
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