Josh Wiliamson and Carmen Carnero wrap up their first story arc this week in Iron Man #5. As Williamson’s first big Marvel Comics series, I’m looking for three things:
- Payoff to what was set up
- Emotional impact that sticks
- A sense of forward momentum
Iron Man #5 has all of those things, starting with a solid recap of how we got here in the first issue, and then an immediate confrontation with Fixer, who now wears an Advanced Iron Man armor. Using the genius of those he kidnapped, it’s the culmination of A.I.M.’s work. This confrontation directly impacts Tony’s group of geniuses in the moment and is a promise for more from them going forward. As story arcs go, Williamson has done a lot to change the trajectory of this series from lone egomaniac superhero to open-minded teacher.
The emotional impact is clear thanks to Tony and Madame Masque’s prior relationship building towards some last-minute choices. Pairing that with the epilogue, there’s a lot to look forward to between the two.
Nice recap.
Credit: Marvel
This issue has a lot of forward momentum, from a new school being formed to an epilogue that does a lot to establish a new threat. Sure, this threat is a bit of a cliché, given accidents always seem to turn people super, but giving Tony a new foil is an interesting turn.
Art by Carnero is fantastic as always, from character acting to the shininess of the armor in the issue. Later in the issue, when we get to see Tony in his workshop, there’s so much detail to take in, you’ll linger, and the detail in the fire effects is also excellent.
As far as gripes, the action isn’t the most interesting to follow. Carnero does a great job with what is on the page, but this issue features Tony mostly running for his life and luring the Fixer into a trap. That trap is a bit tricky to understand. I think he’s being crushed, making the danger seem limited. As far as a story arc finale, it feels limited in big action. The epilogue certainly lacks action, but it’s a great setup for something far more dangerous for Tony to overcome. The character’s electrification is visually great.
Iron Man #5 is everything you’d want in the end of an arc. Josh Williamson brings the story full circle with a clear payoff, especially in how Tony has evolved from a closed-off genius into someone willing to lead and teach. The emotional thread with Madame Masque’s lands gives the issue weight beyond the action. While the spectacle may not reach the heights some expect from a finale, the forward momentum is undeniable, with a new status quo and looming danger that makes the next arc feel essential. Carmen Carnero’s art continues to shine, adding polish and personality to every scene.
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