Review — `Murder Inc.: Jagger Rose’ #2 Showcases Oeming’s Art And Soma’s Colors

Call it alchemy. In comics, it’s those rare times when an illustrator and colorist work so perfectly together that they create gold on the book’s pages. That’s the case two issues in to Murder Inc.: Jagger Rose with artist Michael Avon Oeming and Taki Soma, who provides vibrant colors for the book.

Simply put, the artwork is the driving force behind this series. That’s not a knock on Brian Michael Bendis’ story, though he does seem intent on cramming a lot of words onto every page. Instead, it’s a showcase for an artist and his colorist. And it is glorious to behold.

Oeming has a lot to work with in this issue, which largely takes place in the Vatican. While he doesn’t go full Sistine Chapel on us, he does fits in some nice stained-glass windows, several domes and basilicas as well as a glimpse of Michelangelo’s Pieta.

He also has the opportunity to draw the world’s first female pope, Francesca the First. She looks unlike any other pope in history – more for her ethnic hair treatment than the fact that she’s a woman.

Add to all of that Soma’s colors. She takes an interesting approach to each page, typically focusing on a dominant background color then a different hue for the characters. The Vatican, for example, may be purple, but the pope is blue. While neither artist is aiming for realism here, the combination is unique and special.

Bendis’ story concerns the main character Jagger Rose and her mob buddies being summoned to the Holy See. While Rose received an offer she may not be able to refuse, the rest of her mafia buddies are unexpectedly put off by the pope. They thought they would be welcomed with open arms after an old alliance, but this pontiff clearly has different ideas about the church and her rule.

It’s exciting and gratifying to see a creative team firing on all cylinders like this group is. Even those who may not be interested in the world these artists have created should pick up the book to see a great blend of artistry.

Murder Inc. – Jagger Rose #2 is currently available for purchase.