Greatness is hard to define. What truly makes someone great? Is it the things they do? Is it the things they have accomplished? Is it how they treat others? In Image Comics’ The Last of the Greats #2 by Joshua Hale Fialkov and Brent Peeples the godlike being known as the Last shows what makes him great, he saves the planet from an alien invasion sacrificing his wellbeing and weakening his powers.
The Last is a great being who came out of isolation to save humanity. He saves the lives of every man, woman and child on the planet, and through cunning manipulation the Last reveals himself as a divine being to be praised and worshipped. The Last meets with the people giving them public displays of his power, showering them with his generosity. The people show their love without knowing who the Last really is.
Writer Joshua Hale Fialkov is writing about philosophical themes in a familiar comic book form. Using a comic book setting, Fialkov writes about a godlike being that has come to Earth to save the people and be worshipped for his deeds. The modern context of The Last of the Greats shows the themes of reverence and subservience that are repeated throughout history are still prevalent today. It is this subtle realism that adds significance to the story. Fialkov does not use a heavy hand in using these themes in the story but they are the underlying message of the story.
Artist Brent Peeples shows the ominous nature of the Last while making him look like the savior he claims to be. Peeples’ art shows two sides of the Last with small changes in the way he draws the character using different angles and perspectives to make him appear benevolent and menacing in split moments. Peeple’s portrayal of the characters adds verisimilitude to the story. You can read on the characters faces and through their gestures how they feel about the Last whether it is joy or apprehension you know how they think.
The decision: The Last of the Greats #2 substantiates the Machiavellian nature of the Last. Fialkov and Peeples produce an exciting story where the words and pictures combine for a rich narrative of the events affecting the people. The Last is an archetypal figure in super hero comics being placed into fundamental philosophical setting creating a compelling story that is a reflection on society.
Call your local Los Angeles comic retailer and tell them you want to read The Last of the Greats. If they don’t have it ask them to order it. Find your nearest comic shop by clicking here.
If you come to Comikaze Expo at the Los Angeles Convention Center November 5 and 6 you can meet Joshua Fialkov and get copies of the Last of the Greats, I, Vampire and Echoes signed by the writer.
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