Malevolent #5 – Outsiders

Have you or someone you know ever struggled with the feeling of being an “outsider?” This book gives readers an inside look at two separate perspectives of “outsiders.” Giving readers a chance to experience and relate to the characters involved.

Creative Team

Justin Jordan (Writer), John Bivens (Artist), Felipe Sobreiro (Colorist), CRANK! (Letterer)

Publisher: Image Comics, Inc.

Outsiders

Issue five of Malevolent continues to give readers more information about the main character, Morgan. Followers of this series know that Morgan is an interesting being. A mix between human and alien who is “forced” to help a task force that is hunting her kind.

Within this issue readers are introduced to another alien being that has more power than the others Morgan has faced. This new creature is dealing with an internal battle about its morals and the morals of earth. This plays into an interesting dynamic where the creature realizes it is an outsider. How is one supposed to act within an unfamiliar environment? Is their behavior frowned upon within this unfamiliar environment? Readers will see this play out within this issue.

Morgan simultaneously is going through the same struggle. Being of two vastly diverse species all the while being used and not completely trusted. It is during this time of the story readers get to know Morgan on a more intimate level. While also seeing the connection between her and the newly introduced character. This is a very impactful issue within this series. Might be more impactful than the issue telling Morgan’s initial backstory.

The main take away from this book is that each person or being is different. That is what makes the world a beautiful place. Are there individuals or groups that muddy this beautiful world, of course. We as a society need to stop treating others that we may not understand like they are “outsiders.” We are all outsiders! Just because someone dresses a certain way or believes certain things does not give us the right to judge them as outsiders.

We all have feelings. In the famous words of fellow Nerd Initiative contributor, Eddie; “Be excellent to each other.”

The Writing

The writing in this issue by Justin Jordan really drives home a modern-day struggle that gets overlooked in our day to day lives. Doing so with Morgan who is very much a child and a new monster dealing with a new world. The theme of this issue is not complex or difficult to grasp. It is wonderful to see the combination of a current culture problem and the fictional world of Malevolent.

The Artwork

Absolutely stunning work by John Bivens and Felipe Sobreiro in this issue! The coloration gives highlights to the pencil work which will make you stop and bask in its glory. One aspect of the art that I love is the “facial” features of the new creature. Granted, it doesn’t really have a face, but what would be its face gives off the confusion and depression of not knowing this world. Of being an outsider. Amazing job!

Final Thoughts

Malevolent is a series that is constantly leaving me wanting more after each issue! The ever-growing plot continues to expand making readers question, “what’s next for Morgan?” This story is only going to get better with the introduction of the new monster. Absolutely love this series, get a copy of Malevolent #5 today!

Overall Grade: 9/10

Links

Comic Book Reviews & Entertainment News: Nerd Initiative
Previous Malevolent Review: Malevolent #4 – How Did We Get Here…
Travis’ NI Portfolio: TravisComicHaven – Nerd Initiative
Travis’ Personal Content: Travis’ Comic Haven

PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW!