We haven’t been contributing to the ‘Infinity’ discussion in a while, but we jumped back in the game with ‘Avengers’ #21. Since the last time we reviewed an issue of the main series of Jonathan Hickman’s insanely epic event, the Avengers and their allies were facing what looked like was an unwinnable war. But the tides had turned in their favor when Thor was sent in to deal with the Builder who conquered the Kree’s home planet Hala. Meanwhile, back on Earth, Thanos continued the search for his son, Thane, but in an effort to thwart the Mad Titan’s plans, the Inhuman King and Illuminati member Black Bolt unleashed the Terrigen Bomb, which awakened the dormant Inhuman traits possessed by a number of citizens of Earth.

Now, in the most recent issue of the main title in the crossover, Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and the various forces of the Galactic Council rise up against the Builders. However, as one battle is won, an even bigger threat looms as the champions of the day (under the leadership of Captain America) learn that their home planet is under attack. With all the Avengers heading back to Earth, Thanos and his armada are in for the fight of their lives.

As I’ve said multiple times throughout this event, ‘Infinity’ is so well put together. It hits all the right notes and nothing comes too easily for our heroes. Hickman made sure that Cap, Iron Man, Thor, and the whole gang was beaten and battered to the point that the readers might have even thought that the Avengers could lose this war. The lows were so low emotionally, but that just made the highs that much better, especially with this issue. Seeing Hulk, Hawkeye, Captain Marvel, and others stand besides these worlds that were under siege was nothing short of heroic. Storytelling like this is why comic books were made!

Over the course of the event, a ton of amazing artists have contributed to the series. All are extremely talented in their own rights, but I feel like Jerome Opena, Dustin Weaver, and Justin Ponsor really shined with their work in issue five. They created some pretty iconic scenes that included other planets declaring themselves Avengers worlds. In addition to that, Thane’s containment armor has a great look to it. The character designs and that reveal of the whole outfit were well done.

Finally, I enjoyed the calm before the storm moments. Obviously, what’s coming is lined up to be legendary, but first, Thor and Captain America share a beer from another planet. That little exchange is great because we’re reminded that these larger than life heroes unwind like we do shortly before getting back into the fight. And speaking of the fight, the dialogue at the end between Gladiator, the Kree, and the Skrulls was pretty badass as well. Seriously, few things are as badass as unity and I can’t wait to see this all pay off in the final issue.

A battle for the ages looms in the final four issues of ‘Infinity’. Well, technically there’s one issue left, but ‘Avengers’ #22-23 and ‘New Avengers’ #12 count as well. You know what I mean. Look at the checklist in the back of your book. Either way, the shocking conclusion of Marvel’s best event of the year is coming soon and I’m beyond excited to see how this all ends.

Final Score:

atoms_5

 

INFINITY #5
Written by Jonathan Hickman
Art by Jerome Opena, Dustin Weaver, & Justin Ponsor
Cover by Adam Kubert & Laura Martin