Ms. Marvel #2

G. Willow Wilson, Takeshi Miyazawa & Ian Herring

The second issue of Ms. Marvel continued its fine form in this month’s issue as G. Willow Wilson continued to weave a compelling, light-hearted take on the character in her second series of 2015. Takeshi Miyazawa impressed on artistic duties whilst Ian Herring’s colors allow for a nice, uplifting and lighter look that differentiates this book from the moodier comics currently on stands. Ms. Marvel still feels fresh and energetic throughout.

The book itself avoids the opportunity to include as many guest stars from the Avengers as several solo books have done in the past and as a result the book stands very much on its own, not relying on crossovers. The energetic pace keeps this feeling fresh and exciting with some low stake threats making a difference from the world-ending ones that bigger villains are used to. It’s got lots of heart, and chemistry between the characters involved. Wilson tackles them very well, preferring to use a more everyday and normal group of characters rather than the fantastic in her supporting cast.

The artwork really helps add depth to the characters as well with the strength of Takeshi Miyazawa on pencils, bringing the vibrant energy of Kamala’s life and environment across to the reader in vivid detail. As we watch her struggle against the issues of certification where mysterious Real Estate Company is using Kamala as their poster child for expansion, the artwork really helps capture the tone and feel of the book. The colours from Ian Herring work in conjunction with the pencilling to help create a friendly atmosphere, that feels very much a part of the Marvel Universe.

The issue may not be the most action or plot heavy, but it’s a solid one. There’s some good development as we’re exploring the dynamic with the Kamala and her friends and family, and the focus on low-level threats works well. The emphasis on character allows us to look at the consequences of what happens when Kamala’s mother knows about her identity as a superhero and how things change now that she actually has someone who she can talk to about her adventures in costume. It works to give the book a nice breath of fresh air and also allows for someone to suggest ideas that Kamala might not have thought of herself, under the influence with someone who has had more experience of the world at large.

It’s understandable to be weary that the relaunch might have somehow decreased the quality of Ms. Marvel, but that certainly hasn’t been the case with this book. In fact, if such a thing were possible, it’s actually becoming even better than the previous run thanks to the strong consistency on art and the script from Wilson that puts characters over the action to great effect. The pencils and colours from Takeshi Miyazawa & Ian Herring respectively also adds another layer of excellence to the book that continues to be a standout in Marvel’s current crop of recent relaunches.