Premise: The world is on fire, reality is falling apart, along with everybody in it.
As Ellipses journeys with the paybacks to reach the Dome, events unfold that will change things forever in this shocking conclusion to the “Kids Love Chains” arc! Will Ellipses succeed in returning Ava home? What will Ellipses discover as she enters the Dome? And for real, who is narrating the book!?
This series has been a wild ride full of unexpected twists and turns and this issue is no different. Cates does an excellent job stringing readers along Ellipses expedition across this reality-bending tale of comical madness. Cates writing is sharp, keeping readers on their toes making the uncertain, certain, and the certain, uncertain. His ability to give readers a plethora of epic scenery, cameos, and action, while simultaneously keeping the story’s focus on Ellipses and her trio of friends is excellent.
Very often in mainstream crossover books, the story and characters often get lost in concept and plot that can feel bloated with no payoff or surprise. For a series such as this, it’s amazing how much it feels like its namesake in definition and scope, while also being a personal story about one’s journey for truth in a world of superhero fiction. Readers will be surprised by the cliffhanger of this issue, and they will definitely have major discussions for days to come about the reveal that Cates writes in that’ll change reader’s perspective on the events that lead to this issue.
Geoff Shaw continues to deliver super powerful work, with dynamic action and visual chaos, living up to the insanity that this title contains. Dee Cunnifee’s color work is energetic, bringing Shaw’s illustrations to animated life. The combination of Shaw’s linework, Cunnifee’s color work, and John J. Hill’s lettering provides a bombastic roller coaster ride from start to finish.
Every time I read this book, I ponder how this book could exist! With multiple appearances from characters outside of Image, such as Dark Horse, IDW, Toho, Archie Comics, Bandai, etc, it’s hard to fathom such a beautiful collaboration between consented companies. Donny Cates and company continue to deliver an adventurous romp that continues to rival Roger Rabbit and crossovers as a whole. I highly recommend picking up this book and the previous issues that came before it. It’s worth adding to your pull list for new comic book day.