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Creative Team – Jason Loo(writer). Rafael Loureiro & Alan Robinson(artists). Java Tartaglia(color artist). VC’s Ariana Maher(letterer). Terry Dodson & Rachel Dodson(cover artists). Jenny Frison & Luciano Vecchio(variant cover artists).
Published by Marvel Entertainment
Catch up with Dazzler #3 here!
There was so much excitement for Dazzler #4, so this article is written by two Nerd Initiative reviewers! Please enjoy this review written by Nerd Initiative reviewer, Thomas, and yours truly, NI Brand Advisor/Vigilante Vibes Podcast, Megan Nichole!
“THE FINAL CURTAIN! Dazzler hits center stage in New York City — and the mastermind behind all of the attacks on her concerts is finally revealed! Action, heartbreak, surprise guests and one heck of a light show!”
The Story
At the Grand Garden Arena in New York City, Congresswoman Stevie Hunter and Mayor Luke Cage are taking a stand against the hatred towards the mutants. The politicians are there to recognize Alison Blaire, AKA Dazzler. She fights for what’s right through her music and declare it officially Dazzler Day. To celebrate this amazing event, Alison is performing at the Grand Garden Arena for the last performance on her tour. We remember in Dazzler #3, tour dates and locations were canceling left and right because of security risks. She is on her last show.
If this comic run has shown us anything, it’s that a show can’t go on unless there’s someone there to ruin it. That proves true for Alison’s final show. But will it be the big bad that’s been tormenting her entire tour?
The Writing
Megan: I thought it was a very satisfying ending. I really couldn’t have guessed the main villain being who they are. It was a lot of fun seeing the characters from NYX join in on the fun after their crossover(you can read about it here!). I think Jason Loo had as much fun writing this as I did reading it. It was all around a great time. It was really well balanced with the excitement of the pop star life and the heaviness of dealing with the hatred from the people who were anti-mutant.
Thomas: Dazzler #4 starts off on a high note but quickly becomes a convoluted spectacle. Initially, the comic draws us in with the festive inauguration of Dazzler Day by Mayor Luke Cage and Congresswoman Stevie Hunter. This event sets a jubilant tone as Dazzler reunites with Dale at her Manhattan show, surrounded by an array of new mutants. These scenes capture the essence of what has made the series appealing so far—dynamic characters in vibrant, realistic settings.
The Art
Megan: Rafael Loureiro, Java Tartaglia, Alan Robinson, and Ariana Maher truly shone in Dazzler #4 as they have in every previous installment! The mix of pinks and blues brought a fluid, dreamlike quality to the artwork. The artists showcased their talents by perfectly capturing Dazzler’s essence on and off of the stage. The intricate details and vivid colors on every page elevated the comic into a genuine masterpiece.
Thomas: Artistically, “Dazzler, issue #4” marks a noticeable departure from the earlier issues. Rafael Loureiro’s artwork, which previously enchanted us with its precision and vibrancy, seems diminished here. The inconsistencies in scale and setting are apparent and detract from the visual narrative. Additionally, Alan Robinson’s involvement introduces a different aesthetic that unfortunately does not produce the quality of the first couple issues.
Final Grade: 8
Megan: 10/10. I loved so much about this run, and I’m so bummed to see it’s over. What I am excited for is to see what Jason Loo writes next!
Thomas: 6/10. While the first two issues were solid 8/10, “Dazzler, issue #4” only manages a 6/10. Fans may find elements to enjoy, particularly in the early scenes, but those seeking the consistency and depth of earlier issues might be disappointed.
