Catalyst Comix #2

by Sean Tonelli on August 07, 2013

Catalyst Comix #2
In the realm of comic books, one may find that humanity often rests their fate far too easily in the palms of over powered super-beings. No one seems to question why Superman helps, they are just grateful for it. But what if the government, like any non-fiction government, saw this as a threat to democracy itself?
 
Catalyst Comix #2 slows the momentum of its debut issue a tad to deal with the fall-out of the invasion and add a little more depth to its already intricate world. It’s a nice change of pace, and dealt in an otherworldly manner that is fast becoming a trademark of the series. 
 
The first story, The Ballad of Frank Wells: Misirlou, finds Frank fresh from his (seemingly) victorious tumble with the other-dimensional monster. While the reader may know that Frank never truly stopped the monster, it seems the citizens of the world never even recieved that much information.  Apparently the government has decided it's best not to let the world know that one man, and not the army, stopped an invasion. Now Frank is feeling very blue and looking for answers as to why no one ever gives him the props he deserves.
 
Amazing Grace: The Weight of the World shows the true saviour of humanity, Amazing Grace, has slipped even further into her psychedelic coma. On top of that, during the invasion Grace has unwittingly brought another dimensional being with her. It’s just unfortunate that the only person who can stop him is in a coma.
 
And meanwhile, Agents of Change: Touchy Feely is the perfect read for those of you who have always wondered what group therapy for the Avengers must be like.
 
What makes Catalyst Comix #2 works so well is the extra layer of humanity that Casey has placed throughout the comic. It’s interesting to see these super powered beings, drawn gorgeously by the artists involved, brought down by the same fears and modern problems that plagues reader. While Frank Wells may come out on top, and most deserving of a solo series, it will be interesting to see if these damaged beings can truly save us.
 
Catalyst Comix #2 manages to avoid the sophomore slump and delivers an introspective superhero tale that’s unlike any book on the shelves. I cannot stress this enough; Catalyst Comix is a must grab.
 
Catalyst Comix #2
Script: Joe Casey
Art: Dan McDaid, Paul Maybury, Ailises Farinas
Colours: Brad Simpson
Lettering: Rus Wooton
Cover: Paul Pope
Publisher: Mike Richardson for Dark Horse Comics
 

Our Score:

8/10

A Look Inside