Undrjarn Provides in Valkyrie #9
Valkyrie #9 continues the latest plot arc for Jane Foster, ‘The End of All Things.’ Now that Jane seems to have her footing with the Valkyrie mantle, it’s time to push things forward. And that means putting her up against a massive threat and a few surprises.
This is also one of those plots that has pulled in many Marvel heroes, which makes it all the more exciting. If you peek at the cover of this issue, you’ll be able to immediately identify at least one character who has become involved.
Speaking of the cover, is anyone else concerned with the decision to show Jane Foster and not Valkyrie? That feels like it is going to become an important fact. But one can hope that it is simply a dramatic cover and nothing more.
Writing
Valkyrie #9 was every bit as dramatic as we had been hoping for. Actually, it is quite a bit more. Jane Foster was certainly unprepared for what she found deep within the earth. On the bright side, her connection with Undrjarn has never been stronger.
Jason Aaron and Torunn Gronbekk worked together to create this plot, and it’s safe to say that it had a lot going on. The obvious danger and drama introduced in the last issue were carried over and magnified here.
But there’s also a new tension courtesy of a surprise fight. Plus, the classic storytelling technique of using flashbacks to set the scene and thus introduce the antagonist behind it all. But don’t worry; all that tension is balanced out by a few minor moments, for which you can credit Mr. Horse. And yes, that really is his name.
All things considered, this is one of the more dramatic plot arcs Valkyrie has seen thus far. Undoubtedly, it’ll be far-reaching, though we don’t yet know how far. It is refreshing to see so many Marvel characters involved, as it adds weight to this relatively new series.
Art
Valkyrie #9 is another example of brilliant artwork. Every issue in the series thus far has showcased some of the best work available, and this issue is no exception. Jane Foster/Valkyrie’s struggle comes to life on these pages in vibrant detail.
The portrayal of other Marvel heroes and villains makes the artwork all the more impressive, if I may say so. However, there are several other elements that I found to be noteworthy as well, from the color palettes (and how they changed depending on the setting) to the expressions and battles.
Ramon Rosanas was the lead artist for this issue, and they did a wonderful job portraying a sense of scale and movement. The battle the Valkyrie faced felt epic, as it should. As did the transition that Undrjarn went through.
Meanwhile, Jesus Aburtov was the colorist, and I already briefly touched upon some great aspects of this issue. The muted effect, in particular, had a significant impact, especially given what was happening.
Finally, VC’s Joe Sabino was the letterer for this issue, and their sense of flow is unparalleled in this issue. Every detail in his work leads you from one to the next, but there’s also this sense of elegance in how it is all designed.
Conclusion
Valkyrie #9 pits Jane Foster against a surprise enemy and brings about even more change and twists – none of which bode well for her charges.
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.
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