Thor #7
Writer: J. Michael Straczynski
Artist: Marko Djurdjevic
Company: Marvel Comics

Entertainment, thy name is Thor. For me, that’s an odd thing to say. Why? Because for the most part, I haven’t read much of Thor. Sure, there’s been the occasional story here and there, several issues of the Simonson era of course, but for the most part the only stories that I’ve read that deal with the big guy have been when he was on the Avengers’ roster or during several of the bigger crossovers over the years. So really, Straczynski’s interpretation of the character is the first time that I’ve sat up and paid attention. And even though it’s been a rocky and somewhat stalled start, the six issues to date still amount to an entertaining experience. This seventh one however, kicks things up a couple of notches. There are two reasons for this: One being that an engrossing portion of Thor’s character is explored, while the other is a dominating display of powerful artistic prowess. Either of those things viewed strictly by themselves could be considered good, but when you put them together you really do get something more memorable.

Before getting into the story aspect of the book, let’s first talk about the art. Normally, that side of things have been handled by the awesome Olivier Coipel, who always manages to be jaw-dropping. The man has been so good in fact that I’d even go as far as to say that up until this point, I couldn’t imagine anyone else being able to match that talent. Djurdjevic, known mostly for the countless painted covers that littler most of Marvel’s books rather than his interior work, however has proven this point false. It’s not that he’s one-upped Coipel in any way, it’s that he’s brought the same level of talent and energy to the table, so that the production value and the resulting appeal of Thor is as high as it has been.

Djurdjevic’s approach fits in perfect with the story that’s being told, a sort of Heavy Metal meets Marvel hybrid, that goes a long way to quench the reader’s thirst for blood and gore and action in all the right ways. His pencils throughout are extremely strong, and in a lot of ways similar to the hyper-detailed work of Bryan Hitch, but where Hitch’s stuff can feel a little static at times, Djurdjevic’s carries with it a more dynamic and fluid feel that amps whatever is going on in the story. There are some scenes in particular towards the end of the issue that beg to be read with Metallica or Slayer playing in the background.

As for the story Straczynski is telling…Well, even I will concede that it has been slower than it should be. The pace that he has set, and the time he is taking to setup the new status quo for the Asgardians isn’t all bad though, as we are getting some very memorable character moments and a crash course in Norse mythology. With this issue, we take up right where the last one left off. Thor has brought back all of the Asgardians and as a result, now needs to recharge his batteries. Where and how he does this is quite cool, but what’s even cooler, and possibly the best moment of the series, is the inevitable face to face showdown with his father, Odin, and the turbulent history that lies between the two. In that concept alone is where much of the awesomeness lies, but there are several other moments that involve Donald Blake that while jokey, still play out nicely.

All in all, this was one of the strongest issues to date and, like I’ve already said, is sporting some drool inducing art. If you haven’t checked out Thor yet, and have had any inkling whatsoever, this may be the best time to do so.

This is an advance review. Thor #7 hits comic shelves 3/19/08.