In SONJAVERSAL #5, available from Dynamite Comics on June 16th, 2021, the final issue brings the Sonja Squad together to confront the malignant entity masquerading as each Sonja’s god.
The Details
- Written By: Christopher Hastings
- Art By: Pasquale Qualano
- Colors By: Kike J. Diaz
- Letters By: Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou
- Cover Art By: Jae Lee, June Chung (cover A)
- Cover Price: $3.99
- Release Date: June 16, 2021
Was It Good?
Yes, it was good because it matters in the context of the Red Sonja mythos, or at least in this version of the Red Sonja mythos.
Status quo changes are a good thing IF they don’t change the core of the character but change the potential of what the character can do and the stories they can tell. It remains to be seen if this status quo change will carry forward into other Red Sonja titles, but it would be a welcome change if it does.
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Qualano’s art is fluid and energetic. You get a strong feel of action almost throughout the entire issue, and the page turns are quite good.
You can see for yourself in our SONJAVERSAL #5 preview.
What’s It About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
We pick up with the bait-and-switch revelation about Warrick’s death. Read our SONJAVERSAL #4 review to get the scoop on Warrick.
To be clear, this issue spends a large amount of time revealing all the mysteries and very quick amounts of time on actual action. The resolution to all the open questions is very satisfying, and what makes it more satisfying is the artwork put into seeing each Sonja react to the answer simultaneously as the reader.
So what are these big revelations? All Sonjas are granted their power by the same malignant entity, masquerading as their respective gods. The entity makes them swear an oath that involves killing so the entity can receive a steady diet of souls. The power can’t be taken back once granted. And nothing will happen if a Sonja breaks her oath.
With these revelations, the Sonja Squad decide they’ve had enough and join forces to strike down the entity. There’s not much to say other than it’s an Avengers: Endgame level final fight filled with big hits, some witty banter, and more than a few fist pump moments.
We conclude the issue (and the arc) with all Sonjas now free to explore their worlds without the burden of an oath.
How Does It End?
Warrick is now completely gone. Opening the gates of Hell has residual consequences. There are more possibilities than ever.
Final Thoughts
SONJAVERSAL #5 is a perfect example of doing a big event the right way. The main character’s life is changed without changing the core of the character, leading to an infinite array of storytelling possibilities.
Score: 9/10
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