Superior Carnage #3

By Kevin Shinick, Stephen Segovia and Jay Ramos

This mini-series has reached the climax issue. The Carnage symbiote is no longer attached to the lobotomized Cletus Kasady. Now Dr. Karl Malus is the new host of Superior Carnage. With Carnage, or rather Malus, under the Wizard’s control, the Frightful Four storm City Hall. Of course destruction and chaos ensues until the evil ensemble encounters an old foe…

Being the halfway point in this storyline, issue three does not pull any punches…as any book that has Carnage should. The reader is finally presented with Superior Carnage, which was a worthwhile reveal! Writer Kevin Shinick understand the mass appeal of Carnage and gives him plenty of time to shine in the book, but what makes this issue intriguing is his blend of B-level and A-level characters. He is able to entice interest in characters such as the Wizard and Klaw and make the reader go back and review their publication history. We’re seeing Wizard coping with losing his mind and son as well as Klaw losing the only person he considers family. This is what makes this mini-series work and stand-out, Carnage is just the cherry on top.

Stephen Segovia also understands the importance of Carnage. There are several full-page and half-page shots that show off this villain in all his crimson glory. His full-page reveal is perfect with fantastic lettering from Joe Caramagna. Superior Carnage’s new look is very interesting and bold, he is now clothed (sort-of) and has a defined body structure. More than likely the outward appearance mirrors the mental state of the host. Kasady is a psychopath so the symbiote was in a state of change, whereas with Malus the look of the symbiote is more structured. This definitely calls to mind Venom who has also changed under Flash Thompson. Now that the action is reaching its pinnacle, Segovia is allowed to cut loose and show off some lively, dynamic panels. Seeing Malus trying to control the symbiote was one of the most notable images in the issue. Segovia and Shinick both understand how to properly blend what excites the reader with powerful story-telling.

With such a strong issue and great cliffhanger, one can’t help but be excited for the last two issues of Superior Carnage. If you haven’t read this book yet, do yourself a favor and catch-up!!