Invincible Ultimate Collection Volume 8: Robert Kirkman

"Collects issues #85-96 of the greatest super hero comic in the universe! In the aftermath of the Viltrumite War, friends become enemies, enemies become allies, and Mark Grayson's future as Invincible ends here!"
















I love this book so much guys. Invincible is just such a solid concept, and now nearly 100 issues into these hardback collections it just shows every sign of running and running. What started off as just another super hero comic has grown into a Universe spanning meta-commentary on super heroics. This isn't Animal Man or anything. Don't get me wrong. It's not meta in the sense of self-awareness in universe, but simply in the construction of a superhero epic putting its own spin on everything from team-ups, sidekicks, legacy characters and summer events, all kept to the confines of a single book.

There's something beautiful about the seeming simplicity of Invincible. It's never a comic that feels like it overreaches itself. The character development and passage of time are given the weight required, meaning the characters change considerably from inception. Compare Mark and Eve to their first appearance, and their status is significantly altered, even as his morals, values and perceptions have changed. It's fantastic to see a character mature and grow in a way that rarely feels forced, and never excites fear of slide back. It's one of the best things about creator owned comics for a reader; there is real significance to events. Continuity won't be changed or abandoned, there is no danger of editorial redress to reset to the status quo. Every consequence is felt, dealt with and remembered.

At this point, with the Viltrumite War almost over and the threat of The previous 50 issues seemingly removed, or at least forestalled, this is a chance to change the focus a little. We see some of the fallout of the decisions made during the war, and especially the way it ended, that lead to major shake-ups for the heroes. It also allows for the development of some of the huge supporting cast, in particular an explanation for the breakdown of Monster Girl and Robot's relationship. Between this and the increased presence of Bulletproof as the new Invincible, it's great to see some of the smaller character given their day in the sun. Much like the issues featuring the Guardian reserves against the Lizard Legion these are often the emotional heart of the supporting cast, and the time spent focused on them leaves the impression of a fuller world. It has always been a strength of Kirkman's work on Invincible, and it's one of the reasons why these long run collections work so well - the brick jokes started issues before are given time to mature and flourish before they bear fruit.

As well as the usual great art from Ottley we get the return of Cory Walker, original series artist and co-creator of Invincible, to illustrate the alternate world issues. These are excellent, and it's one of the few times when sharing an artist makes sense. Unlike many anthologies or split art duties the two styles complement each other nicely, whilst still being noticeably different enough to suggest a different aesthetic in each reality. Considering how great Ottley has always been this is a laid back collection - nothing exceptional to talk about. Then again, the most mundane of pages are excellent, and Dinosaurus against Thragg is particularly incredible. Definitely pick this up.

Also Try:
Robert Kirkman, The Walking Dead
Kieron Gillen, Young Avengers