The Good
The Last Days of Midgard was simply epic. The action was larger than life and the story was one entertaining beat after another. This epilogue, however, is basically devoid of action yet still manages to be every bit as good as the previous issues. In fact, some just may finish the issue and believe it's better.
Jason Aaron reveals the latest storyline isn't just some fun dose of action that'll soon be forgotten. Everything that has happened in this series has a lasting impact and clearly isn't being left in the past. Not only does this script deliver some honestly heartwarming and emotional moments, but it's takes major steps to tease the book's future, too. And by "tease" what I really mean is "offer a huge amount of hype and buildup!" It really is impressive how Aaron's able to make this such a memorable issue and establish what lies ahead. He covers a heck of a lot of ground and makes sure every scene is thoroughly engaging. I could elaborate so much more about some of the big developments, but I don't want to potentially spoil any of them for you. Needless to say, a lot happens and it's packed with a lot of heart.
I was a big fan of artist Agustin Alessio's work on STAR WARS: DARTH VADER AND THE GHOST PRISON, so you can bet I was thrilled to discover he's providing the artwork for a vast majority of The Last Days of Migard's epilogue issue. The best word I can use to describe Alessio's work is "powerful." The story arc has been full of massive action, but this issue focuses on the aftermath of that action and what it means for the characters as they move forward. Alessio's tremendously detailed art is beautifully polished and so realistic. His character work simply feels so real and you can easily get a read on what's going through the minds of these fictional beings. This alone makes him a great fit for this chapter, but then Alessio does a superb job creating the somber environment these characters are stuck in. The attention given to the gloomy sky is noticeable and most definitely appreciated. It's not all bleak and sadness, though. The visuals do a terrific job selling the more touching and humorous moments, as well. I could go on and on, but I think it would be easiest just to say Agustin Alessio's artwork is phenomenal. Oh, and I can't forget to mention that the storyline's art team -- Esad Ribic and Ive Svorcina return for a legitimately thrilling conclusion. Hype has been built, that's for sure.
The Bad
Honestly, I have no problems with this issue. It's another topnotch read from the consistently amazing series.
The Verdict
THOR: GOD OF THUNDER #24 is the perfect way to wrap up The Last Days of Midgard. The story has been a ride that's full of non-stop excitement, and this epilogue is an insightful way to see what all of that action meant for everyone involved. It's far too often that stories dish out colossal damage and there's no real ramifications. This isn't the case in THOR: GOD OF THUNDER -- not at all. In addition to being a ridiculously well-written conclusion to one story, this issue is also loaded with attention-grabbing teasers. And then there's Agustin Alessio's artwork. To call it "impressive" really would be an understatement. I never was a huge fan of Thor, but Jason Aaron's run is brilliant and can't be missed.