Absolute Carnage #5 – The End is Only the Beginning

This final issue left me unsure how I feel about this event. While the art and writing for this series have both been outstanding from start to finish, certain events in this “conclusion” made it feel as if this entire event was just set up for another series.

This issue was still an extremely enjoyable read in it’s own right; with heart-pounding action and deep emotions, it definitely delivered an outstanding conclusion to this epic battle between Carnage and everyone unfortunate enough to possess a codex. The problem with this issue is that it makes it feel as though the previous 4 issues (as well as the numerous tie-ins) were all to create hype for something else.

I will take this last chance to say yet again that the art in this series was truly spectacular. Stegman did an outstanding job capturing the horrors unfolding for our heroes while still keeping a hint of superhero action and fantasy alive in the panels. The pencils were only enhanced by the great team of inkers and colorist Frank Martin. Their work combined to make a beautiful horror aesthetic that managed to stay well grounded in a world filled with superhero antics.

Despite an ending that made the series feel like an extended promotion for something that is currently unannounced, I would definitely suggest this series. This series has been a fun ride that you should check out if you’re a fan of Marvel’s symbiotes, horror comics, or just well written, darker themed stories in general.