Ronnie Raymond is dead…or is he?
After flying into the sun to destroy the Firestorm Matrix once and for all, the world perceived him gone forever.
Days later, a new version of the Nuclear Man appeared and was apprehended in New Mexico. Under the watch of the US government, Firestorm is off the grid.
A distress signal to Firehawk throws a wrench in those plans as now Lorraine Reilly looks to find out the truth!
THE FURY OF FIRESTORM #8 by Jeff Lemire, Rafael de Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo & Lucas Gattoni (DC Comics) continues its’ latest arc.
Let’s take a closer look at events.
THE FURY OF FIRESTORM #8 by Jeff Lemire, Rafael de Latorre, Marcelo Maiolo & Lucas Gattoni (DC Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Lemire builds up more mystery with this latest chapter as more parties become invested. Reilly’s talk with Jason Rusch vents her frustration of Ronnie’s situation. Rusch’s involvement has been supportive as Reilly’s theories push her sanity to dangerous places. Once their chat finishes, Reilly gets some unexpected help from a hero working in shadows. The covert nature of the talk sets forth a new path, but not one without obstacles.
Captain Atom’s attempt to bring a bond with the imprisoned Firestorm struggles to find its’ mark. It comes off jagged as the relatability factor mises mark. The writing moves gears into the internal conflict with Raymond and the Matrix. Treating this like a vintage cartoon is a unique take. It dives further into Raymond’s memories with grave reminders along the way. Its’ resolution cements the threat Firestorm truly is. This paves the way for a steady but predictable finish. Readers watch as the stage is set for another huge confrontation with time running out on the main problem at hand.
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De Latorre & Maiolo display many sides of Reilly’s thoughts in the opening panels. Her conversation with Rusch throws a few looks but ultimately leads to a lifeline for her balance. Even with the uncertainty of Ronnie’s current status, seeing Rusch show support is a welcomed sight. Panels show another party displaying quiet support. As the talk grows, readers can see Reilly’s confidence of hope strengthen as a possibility of truth lingers in the air.
Readers watch as the mood is vastly different with the Government involvement. Secretary Porter and Captain Atom’s expressions show no compassion. They are as business as one can get. Panels take a different look when they step into Ronnie’s mind. The coloring by Maiolo makes these moments stand out as the struggle for control begins. Having the classic comic book panel set-up (esp. with a full page shot) adds needed strength to this story portion. A bold two page splash ends a brief rogues struggle. The art speeds through the fallout to land on a steady place via the final page. A solid full shot sets up a great showdown for next round.
FINAL GRADE: 8.6
Firehawk’s search for answers leads her into the heart of danger as Firestorm’s fate remains unclear. Lemire’s writing adds more layers into the ever-changing story. De Latorre & Maiolo lean heavily into the emotional wear and tear Firestorm’s actions have caused. An unpredictable hero continues their downward spiral into a new unknown.
Let me know your thoughts on THE FURY OF FIRESTORM #8 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
