Shadowman #3: Message in A Loa

Issue three of Shadowman kicks you square in the face from page one, the tone is set and it’s crystal clear the stakes will only continue to rise. In no short order we’re introduced to new villains and a call back to Punk Mambo vol 1. Considering by this point you’ve barely scratched the surface of the first couple pages you can only imagine what the rest of the issue is gonna be like: pulse-pounding.

Cullen Bunn is famous for his unique flavorful storytelling approach to horror concepts and here he does not disappoint. The new villain revealed is exciting from the moment we meet him and the grand scale of his plans are almost mind-boggling. The reintroduction of Josef and Mama Cecile brings back something the Valiant landscape has been sorely missing, solidity with what came before. I won’t spoil the full details of that for ya but suffice it to say this nod and all it implies is nothing short of exciting for what….or who we may see coming into the fold soon.

The art of Jon Davis-Hunt and Jordie Bellaire is nothing short of completely on point. Every single panel oozes with the horror/action tone we crave in a Shadowman book. Even the scenes of Samedi and Josef having a verbal joust of sorts just hits right. Not to be overlooked but the lettering drives it home too, giving every single character who appears whether it’s throughout the entire issue or just a couple panels their own unique voice that deepens the story and adds to the mystery horror vibe.

All of this comes to an INSANE reveal which I could in no wise spoil for you lest the sheer weight of it be muddled but if this ain’t the best cliffhanger/set up issue of 2021 so far you’re lying to yourself chief.