Immortal Thor #6: Trial by Fire

This month’s Immortal Thor begins as many tales have over the centuries: by the dim light of a campfire. The comic’s narrative moves between present and past as Loki tells Thor of their initial meeting with the giant Skrymir. Al Ewing’s characteristic metafictional element is present from the off, with Loki referencing a comic book and warning Thor that stories can change the past in dangerous—even deadly—ways. Like the myth it’s based on, Immortal Thor #6 is broadly comedic but tinged with tragedy, violence, and ominous portents. It also begs not only a reread of the original Norse myth but its adaptation in 1978’s Thor #272. Rereading both makes rereading Immortal Thor #6 all the more rewarding. That said, Immortal Thor #6 is strong on its own, especially in its exploration of Thor’s personal growth and ever-evolving relationship with Loki. 

Alex Ross’ cover, showing Thor and Loki in their original costumes sat at a campfire as Utgard-Loki looms through the trees, is one of his best yet and perfectly captures the comic’s nostalgic-but-ominous tone. Martín Cóccolo’s interiors read like a natural continuation as Thor and Loki emerge from heavy ink wash shadows before getting lost in them again. While there’s a great deal of physical comedy to the mythological flashback, it’s in the firelight that Cóccolo’s work (colored by Matt Wilson) shines most. Bathed in warm hues and eerie greens, every limb and lineament is rendered with incredible sensitivity, capturing Thor and Loki in a way that feels deeply, painfully human.