Advance Review: Titans Of Magic Clash In An Energised ‘The Magic Order 4’ #5

It’s brother versus sister for the throne as we open up on a dramatic showdown between these two siblings. And, as you would imagine, their tussle is a thing drenched in magic, a bombastic battle carefully curated by artist Dike Ruan who must really sell the high stakes, high energy drama of this scene across number of pages, and sell he does. Visually stunning and grandiose in scale, the battle that ensues reminded me of the literary tradition often acted out when two magical enemies collide; two mages constantly changing form in a battle of wits and skills to try and outmanoeuvre the other. And, hard to pull off with so many examples from across a whole human history of legends, myths and fairytales. Some of which writer Mark Millar successfully evokes at times here too.

As we approach the final furlough, The Magic Order 4 #5 doesn’t just deal with the family fallout. No, there is, of course, the little matter of a seemingly very well executed coup to drop in on too. Millar has always been one for raising the tension with the aid of villains he has created, like Albany, that are some of the most destructive and dangerous around. And, she has cooly heated up this series since her re-emergence. A character with no morals but with immense power. Something of a fondness for Millar – whether that be the power of magic or money – void of any corporate censorship, Millar’s villains are often far more vicious, so you just don’t know what will happen in the ultimate showdown next issue.

Tonally, Giovanna Niro’s colours help create and sustain a darker atmosphere across most of the issue. A foreshadowing of a dark finale, perhaps? After all, Millar will often pepper his conclusions with tragedy. And, this is a series that will tie-in with the Big Game Millarworld crossover. So, anything can happen. Especially as Cordelia has a good change of fortune in this issue.

Stunning art and a narrative that’s use of violence and language reflects its contemporary context, but with a battle scene harkening back to stories of the past too. And out this Wednesday 7th June from Image Comics.