Final Boss #7 – Owl’s Nest

Tommy Brazen is having a difficult time figuring out his powers and how they come and go. We rejoin Tommy and Knight Owl as they continue their battle within the Tournament of Champions. Can Tommy figure out his abilities without risking being taken out of the running to be the Final Boss?

Creative Team

Tyler Kirkham (Writer/Artist), David Miller (Artist), Ifansyah Noor (Colorist), Zen (Letterer/Editor)

Publisher: Image Comics

Owl’s Nest

Issue seven of Final Boss takes readers one step further in discovering what truly happened to Tommy’s grandfather during World War II. The first half of this issue continues to shed light on the never-ending struggle his grandfather endured while at the ancient temple of a secluded island. Though there are not many words, the art speaks for the story allowing readers to fully understand what is going on. It is also very difficult to speak when you are fully submerged under water.

The second half of this issue takes readers back to the Tournament of Champions on that same secluded island his grandfather was on decades earlier. The story takes off right where issue six left off. Tommy is in the middle of his first round of the tournament against a fierce warrior, Knight Owl. Tommy is going through a learning curve regarding his powers or abilities. Which can be relatable in a sense that being unfamiliar with something new but being reliant upon it at the same time.

Tommy is using his powers to their max until they die off. The battle is surely his during this point. No hesitation in believing so. But once his powers recede, he is left open to the onslaught Knight Owl is about to unleash on him. Aggression is his biggest trait when his powers emerge. After taking multiple attacks the rage and aggression return. Just as Tommy is about to put an end to this fight, Knight Owl says something to him that makes him stop mid-strike in disbelief.

The organizer of this tournament is not thrilled with Tommy’s first performance. He is fighting well but it is his moral compass and something else on his mind that is holding Tommy back from bringing the desired fighting the organizer wants to see. Now it’s time to alter the tournament rounds. This could mean more struggles for Tommy moving forward to become the Final Boss.

The Writing

Tyler Kirkham tells this story is two very different ways. The first half of the story is strictly by the art alone. Yes, there are some words, but it’s mostly grunting. The rest of the issue is giving readers the opportunity to get inside Tommy’s head while he struggles with his powers but also his opponent. The story continues to build adding subtle plot twists when not expected. The style in which this issue is written helps to navigate Tommy’s inner thoughts and concerns. Easy to read and follow along. Still hooked on this story!

The Artwork

Tyler Kirkham, David Miller and Ifansyah Noor are exceptional at bringing the finer grittier details of these fight scenes to visual life. Muscle definition, wounds, torn clothing, blood splatter are all so realistic. Some of the most mesmerizing art for this issue is in the beginning. All of the water and details within it is masterful! The coloration is bold making readers look at the panels with their full attention! Beautiful work on this issue!

Variant Covers

Final Thoughts

Issue seven is a great continuation for this story and the struggles that Tommy is facing. The plot continues to grow and surprise with the twist and turns that it is making. The artwork speaks for itself. If you are reading this series, you will understand that for sure. Some readers may be frustrated by the number of pages that are in use for the telling of the grandfather’s story. I can see and understand that but also understand that Tommy’s grandfather’s story has a significant role to play in Tommy’s story. I am enjoying this series and look forward to Tommy’s next battle! Get this newest issue today at your local comic shops.

Overall Grade: 9/10

Links

Comic Book Reviews & Entertainment News: Nerd Initiative
Previous Final Boss Review: Final Boss #6 – Birdcage
Travis’ NI Portfolio: TravisComicHaven – Nerd Initiative
Travis’ Personal Content: Travis’ Comic Haven

PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW!