MASTERMINDS #3: Be Careful Who You Trust

Welcome to level three in the game of Masterminds, where Edward is about to find out he cannot trust anyone, as the Masterminds are everywhere at all times and always watching.

Creative Team: Zack Kaplan (WRITER), Thiago Rocha (COLORS), Stephen Thompson (ART and COVER), and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou (LETTERS).

*SPOILERS AHEAD*

The Story:

The previous issues Zack made me feel as though we were on a thrilling adventure full of curiosity. However, in this issue, as we started where the last issue left us, that is most certainly not the case. There are more clever riddles and puzzles to be solved as Zack is moving us into thriller-mystery territory now, and his ability to blend genres stands out so much, no matter what story he writes. Edward and Angie share some truly tender moments coming closer, and their connection bleeds through the pages in every letter that is put on the panels by Hassan. The duo is in sync, capturing the slower and emotional moments before Zack thrusts us back into utter chaos. Once again this issue sees Edward coming to the brink of death and now Angie must save him and yet we are no closer to the answer of what The Masterminds want and who they are!

The Art:

There is a lot of great detail laid out by Thiago and Stephen. When the story takes us into the house and library of Mr. Wu, the way the duo casts shadows and lights on things we are meant to see and the things that are shrouded in mystery adds to the mystery and suspenseful feeling that is building up. There are subtle details laying hints and breadcrumbs as well, especially with Noah, as he alludes to not trusting anybody. We are met with a masked Mastermind who may or may not have been Noah, which creates fun theories.

Final Thoughts:

Masterminds #3 blends genres as we move from adventure into a suspenseful thriller in the hunt to uncover The Masterminds organization. The issue is ripe with hints and clues, leaving us mulling over every detail Stephen and Thiago draw out as Zack and Hassan drop subtle hints through the story and lettering. The ante has been upped. I cannot get enough of this run!

Overall Grade: 10/10

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