By Damien Becton

For the past three issues, Shadowman’s writer, Andy Diggle, has been able to tell a compelling story with great art assisting it. Issue number four starts a new arc that has Jack Boniface witnessing and discovering the previous Shadowmen - this one taking place in 40’s in the midst of World War II. With (mostly) a new artist taking over the penciling duties for this arc, Shadowman continues the trend of effective and action-packed storytelling with another solid issue in this iteration of the character. 

Shadowman #4 picks up with Jack Boniface, the current Shadowman, witnessing his ancestors fight crime as a previous version of the hero. This story shows the titular character discovering a plan concocted by a group of Nazis intending to initiate a race war in the middle of World War II. It sounds crazy, but it was executed very well. It was also very cool to see a Valiant superhero take on and try to resolve an extremely Marvel-esque/Captain America-type conflict.

Diggle does an excellent job with the script. He sets up the action scenes and panels for the characters to display their skills magnificently - even playing the saxophone. Seeing this Shadowman receive his scythe and show how music can effective the loa were some standout moments. Andy Diggle is also able to effectively convey Jack Boniface’s thoughts as he watches helplessly the actions of his superhero ancestor.

The best and worst part of the issue is the art and pencils. The first ¾ of the issue is done by Shawn Martinborough who does a magnificent job. His simple yet effective pencils are engaging and a dream to look at. It is very reminiscent of my favorite artist of all-time, Chris Samnee. Simply put, it’s incredible. However, the last ¼ of the book is taken over by the previous issues’ penciller, Stephen Segovia. Segovia does not do a bad job; it is just the sudden change in styles is jarring and noticeable. Or maybe it was just that I was so into the pencils by Martinborough that the change turned me into a spoiled brat - I don’t know, you decide when you read it.  

Shadowman #4 is another great entry into this run of the character. Andy Diggle continues to do an excellent job telling a great paced story with cool action beats that doesn’t sacrifice characterization and development. With the great art, pencils, and colors bringing the script to life (regardless of the sudden and noticeable shift of artists), I think it’s safe to say that this book deserves a spot on your pull-list if it isn’t. Keep the good stuff coming, Shadowman team.

Score: 4/5

Shadowman #4
Valiant Comics