Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! On this edition, we’re checking out one of the most consistently imaginative and entertaining books at the LCS! Once and Future #26 by Kieron Gillen, Dan Mora, Tamra Bonvillain & Ed Dukeshire from Boom Studios always delivers on bringing something special to readers each issue. Let’s jump in and see where the latest chapter takes us, shall we?

Once and Future #26 - On sale June 1st
Creative: Kieron Gillen, Dan Mora, Tamra Bonvillain & Ed Dukeshire (Cover: Dan Mora)
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

On Otherworld, Bridgette, Duncan and Rose attempt to make their way back to Sherwood Forrest after recently recruiting the one and only Robin Hood in their fight. While on their way back to the forest, Bridgette unveils her master plan. It’s a gamble but one that has a fighting chance. Meanwhile at the Grail Castle, Bridgette’s daughter Elaine starts making her own moves. One that will cause some waves is the recruitment of Lancelot & his mission.

However, there is no time to focus there as readers are fast forwarded to Christmas time. There’s some great character moments with our trio of heroes to offset what will be unfolding on Christmas Day. New readers will appreciate these moments and regulars will have a nice sequence to build upon until the finals panels of this book and the last image which will have readers buzzing in anticipation.

“Otherworld is a magical place” to paraphrase Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. There might not be a better written character in comics than Bridgette McGuire. Gillen continues to add layers to her character and the overall direction of this story. For the reveal of her plan, it’s delivered in such a fun way that any other character was talking it, it would appear flat. The “Christmas” break is a great pause to the story that connects with the audience. Readers are so used to the fast pace then when it’s slowed down, it delivers on reminding that our heroes are human at the end of the day.

When top artists in comics today are talked about, Dan Mora’s name had better be in the conversation. Balancing the ever-changing world in which this story is set, Mora’s art gives such energy to this book. From the action sequences to the subtle moments with Duncan and Rose having a quiet pause, each detail shown elevates the incredible writing. Factor in Bridgette’s mannerisms and you have a can’t miss issue each month, let alone this issue.

Overall, Once and Future #26 continues the impressive quality run of this stand-out creative team. The issue feels almost like a change of pace from the regular issue, but it delivers on slowing down to remind readers about all these characters have accomplished before what is next to come. Waste no time getting to your LCS and get your copy this week!

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Once & Future #26. Thanks for reading.

ONCE AND FUTURE #26 (BOOM STUDIOS)

Ken M