Review – Citizen Jack #4 (Image Comics)

Publisher: Image Comics
Writer: Sam Humphries
Artist: Tommy Patterson
Release Date: 17th February, 2016

The previous issue of Citizen Jack took a wayward turn into much darker territory, focusing more on macabre drama than the comedy that came before. It wasn’t a seamless transition in the context of the series and it struggled to find its identity in places, but it was definitely necessary. The latest issue continues to explore the darker avenues of storytelling, and sees the series find its footing once again.

The political satire takes a back seat in order to allow us to explore Jack as a character with more depth as he struggles to keep it together following the departure of his right-hand demon Marlinspike, who no longer guides him. Now on his own, his opposition are devouring him, like vultures ripping flesh from a fresh carcass. He’s a sitting duck, and the only way he can get the demon back on his side is if he commits an unspeakable act against somebody he cares for. The demon is hungry, and he won’t re-enter politics unless he’s fed. Much like a real politician, he’s only in it for the free meals it would seem. Following a disastrous debate, Jack’s descent into mania only gets worse, and his only option may be to do the bidding of Marlinspike.

As you look at the trajectory of the series so far, it’s been an episodic mess in parts; but a few minor hiccups aside, it’s been utterly brilliant. Jack has grown into a complex character, much different to the idiot we met in issue one drunkenly driving a snow blower. With each new issue we’re seeing a man literally selling his soul for power. The obsession to succeed in order to spite everyone he’s ever known has driven him to the point of madness, and with it, he has become a willing volunteer to corruption. It’s an allegory of a politician driven by greed instead of values, and seeing the unraveling of his mind and morals make for some captivating reading, although the lack of any real clear cut good and bad guys might be off-putting for some.

Overall, this is another great entry into this brilliant ongoing series. The way it’s going it would seem like a hopeless cause for Jack, with no chance for redemption. The beauty of the series is seeing a character with seemingly no way back, and this is the type of nihilistic storytelling more comics should strive to accomplish. However, considering the subject matter, this is clearly the best route to go with it. Underneath the Faustian elements is a thought provoking, important and intelligent piece of work with a message. Even if you don’t agree with it, it more than gets its point across with style.

Rating: 4/5.

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