Review: ‘Miskatonic’ #4 Has Character

Writer Mark Sable creates an entertaining and intriguing script. Arguably the entertaining portion is the dialogue, and how it affects the various characterizations. While the intriguing part comes from the cliffhanger ending. Also all the characterizations remain consistent. However, moments occur where the characters explain some of their actions, and these explanations feel somewhat illogical. Yet, one can argue that Sable is showing how characters might try and remain sane in a world where eldritch horrors exist. Not to mention that Sable proves to be a very deft hand when it comes to providing commentary and keeping a story progressing.

Interior artist Giorgio Pontrelli does a good job with the human characters. Unfortunately some of the horrors, specifically the more inhuman ones, look goofy. Although colorist Pippa Bowland’s color palette is partly to blame as well. At least when it comes to a few of the horrors with a more human looking appearance. This is because Bowland chooses colors that look a shade off from realistic. However, Bowland’s work is otherwise fine at enhancing Pontrelli’s art. While Pontrelli also does a fine job at pacing.

The logo, by letterer/logo designer Dave Sharpe, somewhat blends into the cover. Yet, like certain covers from previous issues the Cthulthu symbol pops out rather vigorously. Also Sharpe for the most part does an exemplary job on the interior pages. However, there is one word balloon that falls into the panels. Although it can still be read this does jar the reading experience by a fair bit.

As for the cover art artist Jeremy Haun works in a lot of symbolism and the tiniest feeling of an X-Files homage (X-Files 1993-2002). Finally colorist Nick Filardi gives the cover an application of dark hues that help draw in readers while also horrifying the senses.

Miskatonic #4 is out now from AfterShock Comics.