Time Traveler Tales #5: Time’s Up!

Time Traveler Tales #5 (created by Karl Jacobs with writer Dave Scheidt, artists Kelly and Nichole Matthews, and letterer Joamette Gil) is the exciting finale of the mini-series that proves the power of friendship can conquer any evil. The Clockmaster is set on rewriting the past and has captured Oliver to steal his time travel watch. However, the friends Oliver has made on his journey have a plan to save the day.

This issue is a great wrap-up to this mini-series that illustrates the fun and heart of the story. The reunion of characters seen in other issues with the common goal of saving their friend provides for a heartwarming issue. The action scenes seemed appropriate for an all-ages comic and left room for more stories in the future. The previous issue of the series was more introspective and emotional, so I hope to see more of that if this series is renewed. The story seems to be gearing up for a redemption arc for the Clockmaster, especially with this issue’s focus on friendships and connection. My only problem with this issue was that it was too short. As a result, the story feels a little rushed and de-emphasizes the urgency of Oliver’s friend’s mission. This is further worsened by the very easy defeat of the Clockmaster. The issue is about 50% ads for other comics, which isn’t the creators’ fault, but it takes you out of the story.

The art of this issue is what really makes the story shine. The Matthews do a fantastic job at capturing the whimsy of the story and the characters in their cartoon-like design. The contrast between the dark entities the Clockmaster has created, and Oliver’s friends really highlights the battle between good and evil. The coloring throughout the issue is incredible, creating a dreamy fantasy world that is a feast for the eyes. The art alone is worth picking this issue up and I can see it being a draw to readers of all ages.

Overall, this series has been incredibly fun and heartwarming. After every issue, I was left feeling warm and fuzzy. The series does a great job with queer representation and creates characters that are lovable (even the Clockmaster). I’m excited to see what the creators do next!