GUNSLINGER SPAWN #36, by Image Comics on 10/9/24, finds Javi grappling with the long arm of the law when he’s put in jail for murder and he exercises his right to remain silent.
Credits:
- Writer: Todd McFarlane
- Artist: Carlo Barberi
- Colorist: Ivan Nunes
- Letterer: Tom Orzechowski
- Cover Artist: Paul Renaud (cover A)
- Publisher: Image Comics
- Release Date: October 9, 2024
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover Price: $2.99
- Page Count: 28
- Format: Single Issue
Covers:
Analysis of GUNSLINGER SPAWN #36:
First Impressions:
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, there’s not much to review in this issue because nothing of significance happens, an increasingly common theme in this series. Todd McFarlane brings a broader and harsher spotlight to Javi now that his face is plastered all over the news, but awareness doesn’t mean much if it doesn’t result in action and change. Things are changing, for sure, but not in any discernible direction or pace that could outrun a snail.
Plot Analysis:
When last we left Javi in GunSlinger Spawn #35, readers received an issue-long flashback showing Javi’s fight with an Angel in the past. The issue ended with a man in the present recognizing Javi’s face from news reports, and that man may or may not be Javi’s father.
In GunSlinger Spawn #36, we begin with several high-ranking officials in multiple countries discussing Javi’s incarceration. At least one high-ranking official, name and position withheld, believes Javi is his son, so he wants him released ASAP.
Bluntly, the opening scene is confusing. We don’t have an easily identifiable way to figure out who is talking to who on what appears to be a multi-party call. Todd McFarlane succeeds in making it clear that powerful individuals are interested in Javi’s situation, but everything else is frustratingly vague.
Meanwhile, the medical staff at the hospital where Javi is recovering are baffled by his physical condition. In short, the scarred damage on the outside doesn’t match the relative health of his insides. Without any obvious signs of life-threatening damage, Javi is released into police custody. Later, a court-appointed lawyer visits Javi in his cell to gather information. Javi doesn’t offer much other than to say Thomas Neely is dead because of his involvement in the death of Javi’s sister.
The issue ends with Linda getting an earful from the Shaman, the lawyer getting pressure from the F.B.I., and a cartel fixer getting a visit from Monolith.
Overall, GunSlinger Spawn #36 could, at best, be regarded as an okay transition comic that slightly moves the players around for whatever comes next. Todd McFarlane does a perfectly fine job setting up the scenes and the overall narrative flow, but this issue accomplishes almost nothing.
Artwork and Presentation:
Contrary to the lack of satisfaction with the script, Carlo Barberi’s artwork looks fantastic. Barberi has a strong grasp on the trademark McFarlane style to make even mundane scenes with characters chatting look slick and full of energy.
Art Samples:
The Bigger Picture:
Series Continuity:
Of all the Spawnverse titles, GunSlinger Spawn appears the least concerned by the outcome of the Heaven/Hell War, which cut all Spawn off from their powers. Javi continues on his path to revenge for the death of his sister, but his mortal status plays no part in his actions, nor is he doing anything to get them back.
Final Thoughts:
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GUNSLINGER SPAWN #36 looks fantastic but goes practically nowhere. Todd McFarlane turns in what could generously be described as a transition issue that mildly moves the characters into position for whatever comes next. If you skip this issue, you won’t miss a thing.
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