In the fallout of The Catalyst War, everything has changed. Nathan Burnett is no longer Radiant Black. Marshall Ward is the sole owner of the mantle. The world is not so welcoming to the hero. Public opinion is at an all time low. The power radiant might not be strong enough to overcome this.
In the war’s wake, one key Radiant has gone missing. Radiant Yellow has not been seen in quite some time. It appears the massive-verse faithful are about to get some answers to his disappearance.
RADIANT BLACK #36 by Kyle Higgins, Joe Clark, Stefano Simeone, and Becca Carey talks THE LONG LIFE OF RADIANT YELLOW!
Let’s look closer at the Massive-verse milestone!
RADIANT BLACK #36 by Kyle Higgins, Joe Clark, Stefano Simeone, and Becca Carey (Image Comics/Massive-Verse)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
It must be something about the Radiant Yellow. Over the course of the series, it feels as when featured, it brings out the strongest work. That is no exception here. Higgins and Clark welcome Nance into the Radiant mythos. What seems like a mismatched character with powers turns into something even more deeper than expected.
The story follows along the down and out lead as she discovers the yellow power. When using her powers, she comes across a dire premonition. The dialogue mirrors her rough surroundings. There is no punches pulled. Readers watch as this leads into a plan of misguided action. The writing brings out the highs and lows of Nance’s new hope. It takes readers on quite the weaving path. Nance’s dialogue is filled with anger and sadness. Even when things look hopeful, that light burns out. These events push towards a bittersweet ending. The writing challenges the readers with time and destiny. It leaves with a sense of a brighter tomorrow due to someone’s darkest days. Absolutely phenomenal storytelling for this chapter.
Simeone fills in for art duties on this special tale. The opening page is a full vision of Nance’s rough living. Her discovery leads to some fun but important interactions. Once the premonitions start, the chapter turns into the somber tones of events. A doctor’s visit amplifies the failing sense of Nance’s actions. The coloring of Yellow gives life to Nance’s new direction. Ultimately, it isn’t enough to shape her destiny.
Her sister’s visit throws more drama into an already complex situation. Simeone locks in on the reaction of Nance as the visit’s truth arises. This leads to an impressive two page splash. Readers watch as this unlocks more hidden truths. Nance’s emotions cover much ground leading into the close. Once in this stage, the art sets up readers for what lies ahead. Simeone reflects the truth of matters with close-up of the eyes. It tells a more vivid picture to the readers. This brings forth a superb final page. It ties up loose ends while leaving just enough for readers to ponder. Excellent work in handling this very shifting tale.
OVERALL GRADE: 10
The complex legacy of Radiant Yellow stands apart from the Catalyst fallout in a must read chapter. Higgins and Clark construct an impactful tale of loss and hope. Simeone’s stunning visuals take this chapter to new heights. The Massive-verse continues to challenge the way readers look at superheroes. This issue is no exception.
Let me know your thoughts on Radiant Black #36 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!