W0RLDTR33 #2: Partners in Crime, Punishment, and Betrayal

James Tynion proves once again that he has the goods with a strong second issue that manages to expand both the world and cast of characters of W0RLDTR33 without falling into what has become of the common trap of continuing to introduce more mysteries and unanswered questions. While the story is still clearly unfurling, the reader can feel a sense of depth and strong pacing that left us wanting more at the conclusion of the first issue. Three pairs of partners and introduced in W0RLDTR33 #2: detectives working the case, technologists working to “fix” the dark virus that is PH34R, and two shadowy operatives of unknown origin that are working to clean up the crime scene. Tynion is a master of dialogue. It is engaging to experience the similarities between these three pairings – work relationships with a deep sense of personal familiarity, a deep scene of cynicism and world-weary professional experience, and personal vulnerability. These common qualities are fresh and compelling when you realize that Tynion has given them all unique voices despite the mirrored nature of their pairings and missions. All of these allegiances are juxtaposed with the betrayal of the antagonist and his journalist partner and romantic interest who doesn’t hesitate to sell him out to further her career. 

When combined with Fernando Blanco’s remarkable panel work that alternates between 12-panel dialogue and 3-panel action sequences, we’re experiencing sequential storytelling at its finest. Blanco’s rendering of PH34R, a beautiful and almost serene monster, is genuinely chilling. She is made mad all the more terrifying as Blanco and Tynion continue to slowly deliver her as patient and calculating and utterly devoid of remorse. It’s difficult to determine if this story is more techno thriller or straight horror – one of the best compliments a book like this can receive.