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Ten people are picked to live in a paradise when the world is collapsing all around them. It is a tempting offer to survive but at what cost? That is the premise behind 2021’s The Nice House By The Lake.
The second chapter arc of the mysterious saga returned in 2024. It is also fitting that this series will now be running under a returning and legendary banner of DC Comics with its’ latest issue.
The Nice House By The Sea #4 by James Tynion IV, Álvaro Martínez Bueno, Jordie Belaire and Andworld Design debuts the new incarnation of DC VERTIGO (announced at this years’ NYCC event)!
Let’s take a closer look at where things now stand!
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Tynion keeps this issue grounded around Oliver and his struggles. The conflicting personalities of the “second” house begin to wear on the actor. In comparison to the first series, the common bond of friends is lacking with the new set. It is based on their profession status. Being placed on a pedestal leads to a growth in ego. It also leads to a false sense of invulnerability.
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Oliver and Walter’s backstory gets strong points of clarity. The tragic heart break unleashes a bold reaction from Walter. Readers watch as this builds into a breaking point in the story. The fallout examines the brooding tactics between strangers knowing their future isn’t guaranteed. Readers watch as a shocking action takes place which might seal one group’s future or fate. The closing page leaves events off with an ominous feel. A parting panel concludes a deep ride into quite the engaging tale.
Bueno and Bellaire lead off events with a powerful two page spread. The initial moment between Walter chasing Oliver sets the tone for the deeper decent into their history. The security footage compliments Walter’s frustration at previous moves. Readers get a fun “road map” full page explaining events in recap.
Once entering the final act, the art shows off the true horror of the story. Bueno and Bellaire leave nothing behind showing one character’s fate for breaking rules. Each image cements the mounting horror. It ultimately leads into a full, wordless page. The imagery spotlights the devious actions taken. In its wake, the following panels conclude an impactful tale with a chilling statement before leaving. Rest assured, the art sells the grave stakes of actions leading into its’ next phase.
FINAL POINT: 9.3
It is fitting that The Nice House By The Sea leads Vertigo’s return. Tynion pens a powerful tale of loss and extreme measures. Bueno and Bellaire lock the audience in with the bold imagery of a paradise crumbling. The story dropped a major bombshell and readers will need to brace for impact as to what lies ahead.
Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on The Nice House By The Sea #4. Thanks for reading!
