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As the war rages on the island of Gamorra, the DC Universe hangs in the balance. Our heroes make their final stand as Amanda Waller plays her last card, calling in reinforcements from across the Multiverse.
With the future of the DCU at stake, this thrilling conclusion brings resolution to the chaos in a way that will leave lasting repercussions for all our favorite heroes.
Just like Amanda Waller, Nerd Initiative had to call in reinforcements to have this issue reviewed! For this epic finale, it’s a joint review by our Editor in Chief, Ken (ODPH Podcast) and yours truly! Let’s get into it!
Creative Team: Mark Waid (Writer), Dan Mora (Artist), Alejandro Sanchez (Colorist), Adriana Maher (Letters)
The Writing:
Marty:
Mark Waid delivers a pulse-pounding script in Absolute Power #4 that keeps readers at the edge of their seats. The action sequences are high-octane and tightly paced, creating a tension that builds to an explosive conclusion. While some elements may be speculated by fans, Waid’s ability to keep the full picture hidden until the final moments adds a level of unpredictability. The story wraps up the event with an impactful, satisfying ending that perfectly sets the stage for the next phase of DC Comics. Waid expertly balances large-scale conflict with intimate character moments, making this issue both emotionally resonant and action-packed.
Ken: When readers hear “Event”, there is a sense of wonder if a story will live up to the title. Waid leaves no uncertainty that this IS an event of epic proportions. The attack on Gamora kicks off with Nightwing giving another motivation speech before combat. His evolution into the face of the new DCU cannot be denied.
Once the battle starts, pacing moves the spotlight onto a few key characters. The conflict between Wonder Woman and Steel gets a proper payoff. Hearing the dialogue between Barry Allen and Hal Jordan as their play is made is vintage superhero 101. It balances out the faceoff between Waller and Nightwing before sending the story into its’ closing act.
Readers watch as Waid throws in a few surprises leading to the strong finish. An unlikely hero becomes the key component leading to victory. Another’s actions lead to a change that concludes the “Dawn Of DC” era. Waid balances out both moments to compliment the fate of Waller. Her fate is a fantastic twist that ultimately leads to a new era for DC’s heroes. Once the final page is finished, there is no question readers just witnessed true change in the DC Universe.
Check Out Absolute Power #3 Review Here!
The Art, Colors and Letters:
Marty:
Dan Mora’s artwork is a visual feast from start to finish. The detail in each panel is meticulous, capturing the intensity and heart-pounding action of every sequence. His ability to juggle an immense roster of characters within the pages, each given their moment to shine, is nothing short of masterful. Whether it’s the raw emotion of Waller and our hero’s confrontation or the chaotic warfare unfolding across Gamorra, Mora’s art amplifies every moment to cinematic levels.
Alejandro Sánchez’s colors bring a dynamic energy to the issue, elevating every emotional beat and action sequence. The vibrant hues enhance the intensity, making the scenes feel alive and explosive. Sánchez’s use of color distinguishes each character and setting beautifully, ensuring that the multiverse’s chaos is visually coherent while adding depth to the story’s emotional weight. The contrast between the dark tones in Waller’s scenes and the bright, intense clashes of the larger battles is a perfect reflection of the narrative’s stakes.
Adriana Maher’s lettering plays a critical role in driving the story forward. The placement of speech bubbles and sound effects is spot on, ensuring that the fast-paced action never feels cluttered or overwhelming. Maher’s use of bold fonts and sound effects during key moments further immerses the reader in the unfolding chaos, giving the issue that extra punch it deserves. Whether it’s the quiet moments of dialogue or the thunderous clashes, Maher’s lettering complements Mora’s art and Sánchez’s colors perfectly.
Ken:
With the ensemble cast involved, Mora’s artwork shines throughout the final chapter. The opening build for the attack on Gamora features Nightwing’s confidence set a high bar for the battle unfolding. The attack kicks off with a gorgeous near full page visual of the heroes running into the fight. The rage of Steel losing the duel connects loudly as the tide is turning. It steers the story into a more direct flow that captures the essence to the heroes fighting.
Seeing the Flash/Green Lantern team-up pops off the pages. Jordan’s smiles through the conflict reminds readers of the fearlessness he often shows. Another partner of Hal’s gets a full page splash that leas into an amazing two page spread. The closing panels with Waller demonstrates a wide scale of emotions as the event concludes on a satisfying note. Mora and Sanchez’s epilogue pages leave readers on a fitting point as a era has ended with a fresh start waiting in the wings.
Final Thoughts:
Marty:
Absolute Power #4 is a masterclass in epic event storytelling. From the thrilling script by Mark Waid to the stunning visuals by Dan Mora, Alejandro Sánchez, and Adriana Maher, this issue delivers on every front. The creative team comes together to provide a conclusion that is not only satisfying but also promises exciting things for the future of the DC Universe. For fans of DC Comics, this is a must-pull.
Overall Grade 9.8 out of 10
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Ken:
The “Dawn Of DC” officially ends with a spectacular conclusion. Waid’s incredible writing unveils the true strengths of the DCU heroes. Paired with the always impressive visuals from Mora, readers will have no doubts that the event lived up to the hype.
Overall Grade 10 out of 10
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Thanks for checking out our review for the NI Comics Bullpen. Let us know what comics you’re reading and hit us up on any social media platform – Marty and Ken