THE AVENGERS #36 (MARVEL COMICS)
It’s the end of an era of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes.
After defeating Kang the Conqueror, Captain Marvel has much on her mind. The leader of The Avengers has doubts after their latest encounter. It leaves a question she can’t shake: “What’s Next?”
THE AVENGERS #36 by Jed MacKay, Farid Karami, Federico Blee & Cory Petit (Marvel Comics) concludes MacKay’s three year run with the series.
Let’s take a closer look at this series finale.
THE AVENGERS #36 by Jed MacKay, Farid Karami, Federico Blee & Cory Petit (Marvel Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
MacKay opens with a quick epilogue for Kang after the last event. His current situation is not ideal and show signs of doubt. In a weird sense, this echoes Carol Danvers current mood. Readers watch as she goes through the current roster of the team with discussion. Each has their own one-on-one time with her to give feedback. In all honesty, it feels more like exit interviews than conversations.
The pairings offer different views of Carol’s thoughts. Black Panther’s is more direct on her actions. Scarlet Witch & Storm’s deal with more of accepting the choice and re-affirming it. The one that stands out from the rest is Sam Wilson. Their discussion puts a clearer picture on events. Wilson’s perspective showcases a greater insight readers may not think. This moves events to a bittersweet farewell to Camelot. The writing spotlights the impact the Avengers represent. They are not perfect but aspire to do better. It is a theme that allows Carol’s choice to be accepted. The fallout closes up events with a solid tease of the future. A fitting end for one tenure, a solid promise for another.
Karami & Blee start off events with Kang trying to survive a prison attack. The panels show him broken after being defeated. It is an odd look that gets answered later in the chapter. Black panther starts the exit interviews with their talk. His joy of watching Wakanda from the distance is a solid moment before breaking down Carol’s choice. Scarlet Witch pages present the quirky world of Magic in-between their reflection. Storm’s time is very calm and teases some happiness within her sanctuary. Readers will enjoy these quieter moments.
Sam Wilson’s talk is the one that steals the show. His response to Carol’s inquires covers a few reactions. It is the stern response needed to cement her doubts. It leads to a solid full page group image before addressing Camelot. The time with the Twilight Court locks in the heartfelt gratitude shown to the team. Seeing their reactions breaks down the mystique of Avengers into mortal beings. This concludes with another great full page before Carol makes her call. One last parting image closes this Avengers run. The same can be said for Kang. His final full page wraps up events for wherever they lead next.
FINAL GRADE: 8.4
One door closes, another will open again. After three years, MacKay says farewell to the Avengers with a bittersweet reflection of events. The art team hits the emotional weight of Carol’s decision and effect to reader’s delight. It is a goodbye for now but Marvel heroes will never stop saying “Avengers Assemble” in some fashion. Until then, check this finale out.
Let me know your thoughts on THE AVENGERS #36 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
