Absolute Martian Manhunter #3 Review

Once again, another Absolute universe comic is here to add to your ever-growing collection, this week we have Absolute Martian Manhunter. This series has been consistently weird, really fitting into its phycological genre, but that has not come without scepticisms. Will this issue finally be the one to sell the series for us at here at Nerdy Nook? Let’s find out in this Absolute Martian Manhunter #4 review.

In Nerdy Nook fashion, this review will be spoiler free, though we recommend you read the previous issue before continuing as we will be discussing how the story continues.

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The Review

Image by DC Comics

Last issue, we continue to see John Jones descend into madness, as he started to accepting the sentient Martian Mindhunter and put those abilities to good use. Absolute Martian Manhunter #3 picks up right where last issue left off with John investigating a new case relying on his new friend the Martian to be the best detective.

Finally, Absolute Martian Manhunter is starting to feel like a superhero comic. I like the fact they tried to do something so unique with this series, but at the end of the day, the people who are going to read it are the people who know the characters in their normal depictions and the series was teetering too far from its essence. That is of course until this issue – finally.

Absolute Martian Manhunter #3 feels like a typical detective comic, with some big differences. The merge of the superhero, horror and psychological genres really shines through this issue and honestly makes it feel like it could be part of the Absolute universe rather than a standalone comic. It was so pleasing to finally get a feel for where this series is heading and I am now not so sceptical about it’s future, however horrific that might be.

Image by DC Comics

There is of course, still a lot of room to grow, but I could not be more happy with this issue. We still do not know too much about the Martian or his origin but we at least know that he is a positive influence – for now, anyway. I would like to know more about where he came from and am surprised we have not already seen this, but I think there is a lot of potential there to do something just as unique as this entire series has been thus far.

As always, the artwork feels like a psychodelia trip straight from the 70’s – I am by no means hating, in fact that is the best part of Absolute Martian Manhunter. When compared to the other series in the Absolute universe, it really does stand out on its own and offers a pleasant and unique experience for any reader to enjoy. Some of these panels are so artistic, they are almost worth framing and hanging on a gallery wall – they would not go unnoticed that’s for sure!

I must admit, I almost feel bad for giving Absolute Martian Manhunter such mixed reviews over the past issues – it was unclear as to where this story could possibly go – but I truly do believe this issue is a redemption for the series and we only go up from here. If you have not started the series yet, it really is worth the slow, weird, start.

Image by DC Comics

Absolute Martian Manhunter #3 is the best issue in the series so far. It is finally clear to see the potential of this comic, not just for its uniqueness but for its interesting story and beautiful artwork. Though the series felt like a tediously slow start, Absolute Martian Manhunter has found it’s footing and is truly worth the read.

What are your thoughts on Absolute Martian Manhunter #3? Were you as sceptical as I was about this series? Whatever your thoughts and feelings, share them with us in the comment section of this article.

See also: Previous Issue

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