Wolverine #29; A Silly, Stupid, Solem Sidequest

Wolverine #29 has the vibe of the early 2000s Wolverine comics, similar to the issues between Wolverine #149 and Wolverine #189; the issue meanders through its pages without any overarching plotline. This is very much a “Wolverine sidequest.” 

Unfortunately, Marvel spoils the basic premise of this issue with their own marketing material. The E.M. Gist cover reveals that Wolverine is recruited by Solem; the synopsis of the issue reveals that Logan is recruited for the use of his enhanced sense of smell; and, the cover and synopsis of next issue reveal that Logan is transformed into a monstrous, feral beast. While this is certainly not the most interesting or original Wolverine storyline (Logan being mutated into an out-of-control monster is nothing new), it’s a shame that Marvel couldn’t make any effort to conceal this plot point. 

Saladin Ahmed’s Wolverine maintains the more nuanced, wiser, reflective personality that this series has given the character. However, the standout of this issue is Solem. Solem is bombastic, egotistical, and ostentatious; the complete opposite of Wolverine. When these two characters clash on page, it’s a clash of personality just as much as a clash of adamantium. Furthermore, Solem’s plan in this comic is so ridiculous that it’s downright comical. While the overall storyline is unoriginal, Solem’s plan in this issue is such a comedic premise that it’s never been done before. 

Julius Ohta and Jesus Aburtov return as artist and colorist, respectively, in this issue. Aburtov’s bold colors pair well with Ohta’s kinetic linework. The fight between Solem and Wolverine has an almost video game aesthetic. The page backdrop switches from the hotel setting to full panel color blurs, making the reader fully focus on the action on the page. A nice, subtle touch to this issue is the consistency in Logan’s scaling. Wolverine looks both stocky and tiny in every panel; he stands at the same height as Solem’s shoulders.