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Like Father, Like Son…..
That has been a central theme surrounding a breakout series from Image Comics. At a twilight anniversary, Ruben Kwan turned from ordinary middle-aged man into an unlikely super-hero.
While trying to discover the reasons behind his new identity, Ruben is also dealing with living up to his father’s legacy. The journey has been anything but easy.
CHECK OUT LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW!
Now at the conclusion of the first arc, more secrets are poised to be revealed. Will it burn down Ruben’s super hero career before it starts?
MIDLIFE (or How To Be a Hero at Fifty) #6 by Brian Buccellato, Stefano Simeone, and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou via IMAGE COMICS looks to give readers those answers and much much more!
That’s why for this review, it’s a N.I. Bullpen group discussion with Assistant Editor Marty Stoked, and yours truly (Ken – ODPH podcast/NI Comics EIC) breaking down this chapter (Possible Spoiler Warning):
HOW WAS THE STORY?
KEN: Starting with a flashback to 1979, Buccellato features the youthful ignorance of Ruben struggling to see how his mother’s job is equal to his fire-fighting dad. With the foreshadowing of protecting Ruben, the dynamic of his relationship with his parents heavily impacts his present. The constant struggle to live up to his perceived expectation plays such a factor in each of Ruben’s actions.
The present day drama plays out as well as a rookie hero could expect. Not everything goes as plan, but where would the excitement be if it did? The pacing will keep readers locked in until its’ completion. However, that won’t be the moment they will be talking about. The closing act gives major clarity to Ruben’s past and future being a super-hero. There is a wide range of emotions following Buccellato’s words in those ending moments. The parting page end this story on a high note. One door may close, but will another one open? Readers will have to be patient and see. In the meantime, they have a fantastic story to recap with.
MARTY: In the electrifying conclusion of the debut arc, “Midlife or How to Hero at 50 #6” delivers a thrilling mix of action, emotion, and family drama. Ruben faces the ultimate challenge as he embarks on a mission to rescue his closest ally from the clutches of the Maroon Suits while simultaneously navigating a tense truce negotiation. Meanwhile, on the personal front, Ruben delves into his family history, unearthing shocking revelations that shake the foundation of his world.
Buccellato, Simeone, and Otsmane-Elhaou masterfully weave together the past and present, providing essential backstory while propelling the narrative forward with tantalizing plot threads. The incorporation of Ruben’s family history adds layers of depth to the storyline, fostering a relatable connection for readers of all ages. The pacing is impeccable, balancing world-building, character development, and pulse-pounding action in a harmonious crescendo that sets the stage for future arcs. With each turn of the page, anticipation builds, leaving readers eager to unravel the mysteries yet to unfold.
LET’S TALK ART AND LETTERING!
KEN: Simeone paints a telling lesson of young Ruben’s life right from the start. The interactions of Ruben and his parents mirror one of a young child not grasping what it right in front of him. The mother being patient with a child’s irrational thoughts carry through to the present time with ease. Once the action picks up with Ruben and the Maroon Suits, Simeone takes things up a notch to intensify the mood.
With the superb lettering of Otsmane-Elhaou, Ruben’s plan to free Shaun pops right off the page. taking a simple bell alarm and amplifying its’ noise, the panels show the change of momentum heading into the building showdown. The images of fire are another stand-out element of the book. The creative team takes every advantage to display its’ usefulness under Ruben’s eye.
That said, there is no more impactful moment than a conversation in the final act. Matching the heartfelt dialogue, the imagery begins with a full page image of Ruben addressing his biggest huddle. The intense discussion leads to an array of feelings. This all leads into a parting shot indicating not everything has gone up in smoke. It’s a credit to the creative team for giving a solid balance to the emotion and action that is Ruben Kwan’s life.
MARTY: Simeone’s artistry, complemented by a vibrant color palette, elevates the intensity of the action sequences, particularly through the strategic use of fiery red hues that mirror Ruben’s elemental powers. Otsmane-Elhaou’s lettering amplifies the urgency of the narrative, driving home the gravity of each moment with precision. The visual storytelling is further enhanced by the thoughtful incorporation of color symbolism, with flashes of yellow for joyful flashbacks, somber blues for moments of reflection, and the striking contrast of red during scenes of heightened tension. Close-up shots masterfully capture the raw emotions etched across the characters’ faces, drawing readers deeper into the heart of the story.
N.I. BULLPEN FINAL GRADE: 9
KEN: 9 out of 10
With its’ first arc at the end of its’ light, the saga of Ruban Kwan closes with a powerful parting chapter. With Buccellato’s strong writing leading the charge, Ruben faces many of his greatest challenges head-on. Simeone and Otsmane-Elhaou bring the heat with action sequences that stand toe-to-toe with the emotions of a man coming (truly) of age before readers’ eyes. The final page will leave readers looking for more of this incredible series.
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MARTY: 9 out of 10
Midlife (or How to Hero at fifty) #6 delivers a knockout punch with its blend of gripping narrative and stunning visuals. Buccellato, Simeone, and Otsmane-Elhaou have crafted a comic that resonates on multiple levels, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Ruben’s heroic journey. With its seamless fusion of action-packed excitement and heartfelt drama, this issue earns a well-deserved spot among the must-reads of the year.
