Review: ‘Bear Pirate Viking Queen’ #3 Delivers A Message

Writer Sean Lewis arguably creates a stronger script for Bear Pirate Viking Queen #3 than the one for the previous issue from Image Comics. The main strength is the clarity of the characterization along with that of the through line. Without this clarity, it is possible that it would be confusing to some readers. Lewis also does a great job with creating interesting dialogue. It is also worth mentioning that he throws in some actual facts that go along nicely with this experimental tale. Unfortunately, certain readers will find this story to be pointless due to it not leading to a clear ending.

Artist and letterer Jonathan Marks Barravechia uses a style of coloring that resembles water-coloring. While it in fact may actually be water-coloring it is too hard to know for sure due to the advancements of digital coloring. As for the lettering Barravechia does a magnificent job with applying the font in word balloons, boxes, and borderless onto the page. Barravechia also does a great job sizing the text to just the right level in order to suggest vocal volumes. The line work of the art has a loose look to it, but a confident feeling. There is also a realism to Barravechia’s style that is clear despite the overall experimental aesthetics. Not to mention the expressions, and page layouts, work well with the scripting by Lewis.

When it comes to the cover Barravechia uses negative space very nicely to make the Queen’s dress a background for the characters below her. The combination design of a town and a crown is great in terms of symbolism and practicality.

Finally there is a social message to this work that becomes clear with the ending of the narrative. It is made explicitly obvious with a short and smart essay by Lewis that comes off a bit like one assumes a 1960s hippie might give.

Bear Pirate Viking Queen #3 is out now from Image Comics.