Coming Back to The End In Captain Marvel #22

Now that the events of Empyre have concluded, it’s time to dive into a whole new plot arc for Carol Danvers. In Captain Marvel #22, things are about to change, and yet some of those changes feel hauntingly familiar…
The events in this issue tie indirectly what events from Captain Marvel: The End #1, so I would strongly suggest fans go back and read that first if they haven’t already. The plot will still make sense without it, but many vital context will be lost (not to mention spoilers).
Seeing this plot rear its head again is both bitter and sweet, for reasons that many surely already understand. Yet there’s also a sense of lingering hope – hope that this time, Captain Marvel can make a change without the high costs.
Writing
Captain Marvel #22 is an issue full of beautiful highs and intense lows. It encompasses many details from recent plot arcs for Carol and then some. Written by Kelly Thompson, this issue is one whirlwind of a read.
There’s a lot to love about this issue – there are a few feel-good moments earlier on, all of which were setting the scene. It is a classic trope, but one that was used to great effect here. Combined with the character cameos, it will make you smile.
Right before everything changes, that is. If you’ve read the events in Captain Marvel: The End #1, the odds are good that you’re probably already trying to guess at what those changes are. After all, that was an iconic moment in her history.
There’s a lot to take in over the course of this single issue—lots of changes and even more characters. Not to mention all of the hints and implications about what has happened. All things considered, this is one heck of a start for a new plot arc. It has raised so many questions and will keep readers waiting for the next issue to drop.
Art
Captain Marvel #22 is full to the brim of bold and brilliant artwork – courtesy of Lee Garbett (art), Tamra Bonvillain (colors), and VC’s Clayton Cowles (letters). It’s an issue specifically designed to elicit as much emotion as possible, all while starting a new and thrilling tale.
The characters are instantly recognizable, which doesn’t sound like a feat, but trust me, given the situation, it is. Likewise, the newly introduced characters have fascinating designs, most of which hints at their origins.
Then there’s that color palette! The colors are divine, with even the backdrops getting a heavy dose of bold coloring. It’s all thematically appropriate while also being memorable.
There’s a stark transition that occurs in this issue, and the artists did an excellent job of portraying it. There is no concern revolving around the show and tell in this instance – even a glance can make the change clear as day.
Conclusion
Captain Marvel #22 is the start of a new plot arc for Carol, and yet it is one that feels familiar. Connected to Captain Marvel: The End, this plot is going to give fans a chance to finally get some answers, all while leaving room for hope. And concern. Only time will tell how Carol is going to resolve the current situation she’s found herself in.
This review was originally written for Word of the Nerd, but has been ported over to Quirky Cat’s Fat Stacks now that the site has shut down.