Avengers: Endless Wartime Review
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Writer: Warren Ellis
Art: Mike McKone
Colors: Jason Keith
Letters: Chris Eliopoulos
Covers: Mike McKone & Rian Hughes
Review by Scott Keys
Avengers: Endless Wartime is the first in a new line of OGNs produced by Marvel Comics that will offer readers a broad-scope adventure set squarely in Marvel continuity. What happens when something from Steve Rogers’ and Thor’s past comes back to haunt them? The answer: a pretty awesome adventure!
To say that this story is epic might actually be an understatement. Warren Ellis, one of the writers that pretty much invented the “wide-screen” storytelling format, utilizes the increased page count to his advantage, establishing this “larger-than-life” world the Avengers have to operate in. Not only does he provide us with thought-provoking social commentary (with the other-worldly WMDs from Asgardian legend, and their effect on war-torn nations), but he also gives the readers that same “wide-screen” action that comic book readers love. Of course, that action wouldn’t be half as good if it weren’t for the very talented art team. McKone and Keith, with a combination of clean lines and vibrant colors (and even some dark, dreary colors when the story called for it), immerse the readers directly in the middle of the Avengers’ world. I’ve always been a huge fan of McKone’s style, and it works so well in the stories involving large casts, such as the Avengers.
I won’t sugar coat this. Even though I thoroughly enjoyed this OGN, it isn’t going to appeal to everyone. If you aren’t a fan of either Ellis or McKone (and you know who you are), then you probably won’t enjoy this book. However, if you enjoy “classic” Ellis, this book is a must own! Not every “good” read is easy. In fact, I would wager to say that “good” reads should NEVER be easy, but thought-provoking and engaging. I’m curious to see what else Marvel has in store with this new line, and I hope to read more from the incomparable team of Ellis and McKone in the future.
Art: 4.5 / 5
Story: 5 / 5
Overall: 4.5 / 5
Scott Keys is a father, Butler University grad, pharmacist, and full-time comic nerd. You can follow his adventures around the spinner-rack and his Incoherent Comic Book Ramblings on:
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