Posted in: Comics, Review, Valiant | Tagged: Andrew Dalhouse, comedy, eliot rahal, Francis Portela, harbinger wars ii, Quantum & Woody, sci-fi, superheroes, valiant entertainment
Quantum + Woody #6 Review: A Surprisingly Visceral Issue for the Comedy Series
All power in the city has gone out. Electricity, cars, and all electronics have ceased functioning. Quantum is trying to save everyone he can, but Woody believes they're out of their depth. Worse yet, their powers and quantum armband don't seem to be working either. Despite that, Eric rushes into a burning apartment building to save everyone inside. Woody reluctantly follows.
Quantum + Woody #6 shifts gears significantly by not being a comedy at all. This installment is quite dramatic and, at times, pretty damn gut-wrenching. Thankfully, it works really well. In fact, this might be my favorite issue of the series so far.
Instead of the clash of personalities being used to set up jokes, it's just a strain in a desperate situation. The world is falling apart, and Eric is just trying to keep what's left of it together. Woody is more the realist here, but he goes along with his brother because he loves him.
The comic is shockingly grounded too, especially considering the normal tone of the series. It might cause tonal whiplash for some readers, but the book handles it well with consistency and genuinely heartfelt moments. Eliot Rahal is the writer here, stepping in for Daniel Kibblesmith. Rahal succeeds in making an impression for sure.
Francis Portela's artwork carries this all very well too. It's sleek and highly detailed, but there is a simplicity in the look that fits the comic book setting. On top of that, it handles the emotional weight. The heavier moments are held up by well-defined expressions and body language. Andrew Dalhouse's color work is solid too, giving a good amount of color even in the muted lighting.
Quantum + Woody #6 is a great read, showing how this book can handle a more serious tone. While it doesn't have the humor of prior issues, it's nice to be reminded that your superhero comedy duo is indeed human. Plus, as an implicit tie-in to Harbinger Wars II, it shows the weight of what's going down while the gods fight. This one definitely earns a recommendation. Give it a read.