It’s the end of season one for Second Coming from Mark Russell and Richard Pace (with finishes by Leonard Kirk), which means conclusions are in order. Of a sort. This is a series that pissed a lot of people off by merely existing thanks to its depiction of Jesus, God, and Satan himself. In this final, 30-page issue, Sunstar and Shiela head out on a honeymoon and leave Jesus in charge of the apartment. This is an issue that cuts between the past and the present as Jesus comes to a new realization.
Issue #6 opens with group therapy for Sunstar as he contemplates changes in his life. Russell brings up an interesting point here as he realizes his honeymoon is going to mean not saving lives — he literally counts the lives that will be lost because he’s taking time off. There’s a heavy weight on his shoulders, similar to Jesus who wants to save all of humanity, but they both can’t be perfect. They’re only human, right?
In a lot of ways, this issue feels like a race to the finish, for better or worse. It’s nice to get these characters further along, but it also reads as if more pages were required, or maybe even another issue entirely. That being said, there are some interesting points made about Jesus, Judas, and Jesus’ perspective on his mission. Meanwhile, Sunstar shows how clever he can be, but also how devoted. By the end of this issue, it’s clear both characters have grown and changed which sets up a good second season of new discoveries as these two characters better understand their purpose. Plus, there’s a great message about bowling. No, really!
The art by Pace and Kirk, with colors by Andy Troy and letters by Rob Steen, bounces between flashbacks and the present quite well. The flashbacks have a sketchy, rougher style that suits the time. The superhero scenes are smashingly good and have a modern feel. Seeing Sunstar kick ass is always a treat with this series. Lettering is efficient and the caption boxes are done up like scrolls that suit the messaging.
Following this is a preview of Billionaire Island by Russell and Steve Pugh, which looks excellent, and then two short stories. I love the addition of different genres because even if the comic is a quick read or not the best you still have bang for your buck.
Overall, issue #6 serves as a good finish to the first season of Second Coming, though it does read like a rush to the end. Still, Russell and Pace have left things off in a great place to pick up again in the future. There’s a lot to be had here, from some humor and even more great criticism and reflection on faith, Christianity, and what it means to be a martyr.
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