Invisible Kingdom #10: Resolutions and Rebirths

As Invisible Kingdom’s second arc comes to a close, G. Willow Wilson’s narrative feels more wonderfully character-driven than ever. Grix and Vess’s attempts to dismantle corruption and tyranny have failed (at least temporarily), and only in running towards the unknown have they found hope for the future. 

As with her acclaimed Ms. Marvel run, Wilson’s script throughout the series has kept a steady eye on questions of faith through the eyes of Vess, especially when one’s religion is often unquestionably acting on the side of the oppressor (whatever significance may remain in religious texts, prayer, etc. to the individual believer). Now, Vess’ desire through faith for “mastery over [her]self” (professed in the previous issue) has finally come face to face with her love for Grix. The concept of rebirth remains at the forefront, first with Grix’s literal and individual resurrection, then with the symbolic rebirth of her relationship with Vess, and finally with a cliffhanger introducing the revolutionary “Siblings of Rebirth.” Of course, the new nones come promising revolution, and with them the reminder that Vess’ faith and her love for Grix may not be fully out of conflict. Put more simply, rebirth isn’t necessarily a clean severance with the past. It’s messy.

Christian Ward’s art remains, as always, a perfect match for the sweeping space scenes of sci-fi. The only minor quibble to be made is that, with an issue of focusing on intimacy slightly more than usual, some panels stand out as having been underworked regarding characters.

The exterior shot of the space ship, array of facial close-ups, and particularly the electric blue splash page centering on Vess and Grix are all very beautiful. The striking contrast of the cover page is only undercut slightly by its focus on characters who only appear in the final page. But, generally, it’s all incredibly satisfying to drink in.