I have talked a lot about the art in this series, but it continues to deserve praise. James Harren, again, does a great job of creating the Esu or creepy monsters that are after Rathraq, as well as, the humans. I love Del and Harren’s imagery of this guy is spot on and he totally exploded with some intense action. Probably the most we have seen from him. I loved every second of these scenes and I have no doubts that the readers will love his explosive style and richness to each character. The art with the colors from Dave Stewart flow together. To me, it looks like it all comes from the same mind. If you are looking for some unique art, but still with an understanding of comic layout, then this is your comic. Not only was the art in this comic stellar, but I found the plot to be perfectly on point. It jumped around some and all lead to one progression. Rathraq and Del are about to enter their exchange although we all know this is a trap. Rathraq is supposed to get his body back, but at what cost? Del continued to shine and continues to be my favorite dude. This brings me to another reason of why Arcudi’s writing is so great. His characters have such good qualities that you like them no matter what. Del has such a positive attitude that he will go for whatever. That mentality is infectious. Then we jump to Bobby who was still walking from the bar and still trying to make a decision on what to do.
I have no idea why this made me so happy, but this comic totally kicked it old school style for a moment with Bobby. He is contemplating saving Del and Rathraq but oh man the girl of his dreams is right in front of him. Anyway, Bobby totally has an angel/devil on his shoulder moment. Although this was done too many times in 90s television, I couldn’t help but laugh all the while reading these panels. That is what I love about Arcudi’s writing. One moment we can be trying to save the world from nasty creatures and the next you are laughing at Bobby’s lack of flirting skills.
But back to the comic, Bobby makes the right decision because that is how Arcudi wrote him. I don’t think Bobby has a bad bone in his body. He may try to ignore his gut, but he always comes back.
I think Rumble #5 has really taken a new life form. It had all the right elements intertwined to make a well-rounded story. I kept going back and forth, but I am fully on board. I only see the first story arc getting better, so jump on this Rumble ride so you don’t miss out.
Score: 4/5
Rumble #5 Writer: John Arcudi Artist: James Harren Colorist: Dave Stewart Publisher: Image Comics Price: $3.50 Release Date: 4/29/15 Format: Ongoing, Print/Digital