MIDNIGHT WESTERN THEATRE: WITCH TRIAL #5, by Scout Comics on 1/24/24, concludes the prequel miniseries where finally learn the true nature of Ortensia Thomas’s powers, how she became a magic-based monster hunter, and where that journey leads her into the main series.
The Details
- Written by: Louis Southard
- Art by: Butch Mapa
- Colors by: Sean Peacock
- Letters by: Buddy Beaudoin
- Cover art by: Julianne Griepp
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover price: $4.99
- Release date: January 24, 2024
Is MIDNIGHT WESTERN THEATRE: WITCH TRIAL #5 Good?
MIDNIGHT WESTERN THEATRE: WITCH TRIAL #5 is a great way to wrap up the miniseries. We get a lot of deep information and clarity about Ortensia Thomas’s powers, why she’s so important, and how the end of this journey sets her on the path she experiences in the main title. If you go back and read our reviews for the main Midnight Western Theatre comic, one of the big questions left unanswered is who Ortensia Thomas is, what she’s all about, and why she’s powerful (or not) and how it all comes into play. This miniseries does a fantastic job of answering that question and giving you an understanding of Ortensia’s past and why it informs her future.
Previously, Ortensia confronted Corson after he killed her surrogate mother, Sarah, a western witch. During that experience, she encountered the Plague Doctor, who revealed he came from ancient Egypt and has been shepherding Ortensia’s life since the beginning because she’s part of a vision he saw long ago. Now, with her conflict with Corson coming to a head, the Plague Doctor tries to guide her, but Ortensia decides she’s tired of being everyone’s pawn. Through a dark vision, she learns she’s the avatar of the Angel of Death, empowered by a cosmic entity known as the Fireman.
Now, Ortensia, now accepting her role as the Fireman’s Avatar (aka Earth’s Angel of Death), goes to reclaim her belongings from the Plague Doctor. She declares she’s confronting Corson, despite the Doctor’s warnings. While initially outmatched, when Corson attacks her in the spiritual realm to claim her soul, he gets a nasty surprise: Ortensia is the Fireman’s Avatar, a much more powerful entity. The Fireman isn’t happy with Corson’s actions, and things get pretty bloody for Corson (not something you expect from preview issues!).
By the end, Ortensia is on her future path, with Corson dealt with permanently (and gorily). Now, empowered and owning her life, she pursues her path as the Angel of Death, but not really, as she chooses to live life on her own terms.
If you’re curious how this title leads into the main Midnight Western Theater series, it does and doesn’t. It establishes where she comes from but doesn’t delve into her future partnership with the vampire. However, it’s a great way to understand Ortensia’s background and enriches the main story, which is what a prequel miniseries should do.
What did we like about MIDNIGHT WESTERN THEATRE: WITCH TRIAL #5? It really establishes Ortensia’s character, motivations, and the trauma she’s been through. It also shows her gaining confidence and ownership of her life. Plus, it clarifies the forces influencing her and allows her to move forward on her own terms.
What didn’t we like MIDNIGHT WESTERN THEATRE: WITCH TRIAL #5? Not much! There’s a lot of exposition and grandstanding, but ultimately, it’s a solid issue. If you were curious about Ortensia from the main title, this miniseries definitely fills in the gaps and makes the story richer.
A quick word about the art: As you can see from the preview pages, it’s a unique style, not your traditional comic book art. There’s a straightness to the characters and lines, but it fits the old west vibe well. If it’s not your cup of tea, give it a chance! The story is strong and stands on its own.
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Final Thoughts
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MIDNIGHT WESTERN THEATRE: WITCH TRIAL #5 is a solid way to end the miniseries, just as strong as its beginning. If you want to know more about Ortensia Thomas, this is the way to go!
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