Customer Reviews

Alias Vol. 3: The Underneath

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

In this volume, containing issues 10 & 16-21, Bendis finally makes full use of the promise of Alias - exploring the seamy underside of the Marvel universe. The plot centers on Jessica's pursuit of the girl recently known as Spider-Woman, after said arachnid breaks into her apartment. We also have appearances by the first Spider-Woman, Luke Cage, and a hilarious cameo by Speedball.
As always, Bendis does a tremendous job of balancing the drama and mystery with Jessica's self-loathing inner monologue. Stronger than the second volume, this is where Alias seems to be really hitting its stride; too bad the fourth volume will be the last.

This volume of Alias is outstanding. The artwork is amazing, the character development deep as always, and even the story is interesting. The way the artist plays with panels and layout is powerful and unique. Much of the art feels painted rather than inked, with elements of impressionism and surrealism. After reading the first three volumes of Alias, we know the character Jessica as well as any in any comic. The authors tie her into the Marvel "Universe" in a very compelling way. She is a former "superhero" but does not parade around in tights. What a refreshing spin on the superhero genre. Definitely the strongest of the three in the collection so far.

The ex-Jewel, Jessica Jones, begins to come out the other side, with some help and shagging from Ant-Man, Scott Laing. Whether Ms. Marvel and Spider-Woman are more of a hindrance than a help to someone with problems is a very good quesiton.

Then there is also Luke Cage, Power-Man to deal with, and how to protect another hero in the bargain, as part of her new private detective shtick.

This volume of alias really hits it's mark. It creates a dark world of superheroes and shows it through the eyes of the female dective, jessica, who also happens to have a heroic past.

All the charactures in alias are well thought out and, even older established charactures are shown in new and interesting light which makes it a fresh and good read.

If you are a fan of superheroes and mature reading this is a must have volume in anyones collection.

Bendis' characterization, dialogue and storytelling technique never falter in the third colume of Alias. I don't actually think that this is where "Alias hits its stride," as is said in the last review; Alias hit its stride with the first volume, and it never looked back.

It goes without saying that the writing and artwork are both flawless in every issue. The first issue (#10, which should be the first issue of the last trade; it has more to do with this story, though) is done in water color, which I didn't think was a great idea. But that couldn't any less important. This is great.