Advance Review – The Mystery Deepens Deliciously In ‘No Man’s Land’ #3
by Tom Smithyman
Overview
Reading this series is like watching a movie unfold before your eyes. The visuals are that clear and stunning – and the story of a ritualistic murder set during the Cold War is that layered. This title is definitely in the running for one of the best series of the year.
Overall
9.5/10Like peeling an onion, the mystery in No Man’s Land is revealing itself to be layers upon layers.
What started off as a Cold War story about a soon-to-be retired FBI agent being sent to investigate a murder on an island between Alaska and the former Soviet Union seems much more than that now. Creator Szymon Kudranski – who writes, draws, and even translates the limited series – has crafted a story that blends religion, politics, mystery, and possibly the supernatural into an engaging tale.
FBI agent Kevin Collins and KGB operative Sonia Fiodrow are on the trail of a killer who seems to be trying to send both of their countries a message. Meanwhile the detectives come across a crown of thorns in a nuclear bunker. It all adds up to some scary dude wearing a stag’s head who is coming after the officers.
As good as the story is, Kudranski’s artwork is better. He delivers stunning page after stunning page. It truly feels like you’re watching a movie, which is a testament to Kudranski’s talent and dedication to the story he wants to tell here.
He uses shadows masterfully, which is remarkable given that it’s almost always light so far north at this time of year. It effectively establishes the mood and eeriness of the situation. There’s very little color throughout – just a few light blues for the ice, some barely distinguishable brown for clothing, and red for blood. Lots of blood.
While Kudranski relies heavily on Collins’ to tell the story through dialogue with his partner, he also knows when to shut his main characters up. Several pages feature no words at all, as the agents track their prey (or is it the other way around?). He didn’t need to do that to show off his artwork, but it works anyway.
There are still plenty of loose ends to tie up before next month’s final issue. If he can stick the landing, Kudranski will have a contender for best series of the year with No Man’s Land.
No Man’s Land #3 will be available in comic book stores and on digital platforms on Wednesday from Image Comics.
