As a series that is steeped in themes of the disparate, it is only fitting that the innovative comic book series, East of West, conclude on something radical: love. Through the series’ yearning sensibilities within its amalgamation of genre, writer Jonathan Hickmas has weaved grandeur into the emotional arcs of these characters. 

Providing some of the finest homages to the Western genre in 2019 (It’s definitely a contender with The Mandalorian.), Hickman treats his audience to a classic Western shootout, providing a fitting fate for a character within the series. The scene is a remarkable piece of storytelling that Hickman and his team have achieved throughout their 45-issue run.

In earnest, the cultivation of these storylines come to a satisfactory conclusion, albeit unexpected; however, the element of surprise has always been a staple of Hickman’s storytelling. Despite the surprise, all of these threads feel well-earned with the amount of foresight that Hickman has managed to put into this sweeping epic. What’s more is the feat of conveying this tale through Nick Dragotta’s stunning artwork complemented by the coloring of Frank Martin and the lettering of Rus Wooton. They subtly convey nuanced emotions to the reader, especially through the magnificent lettering of Wooton, whose work magnified an already stellar piece. East of West provides a fine emotional journey through the end, and it’s really about finding a home.

Creative Team: Jonathan Hickman (writer), Nick Dragotta (artist), Frank Martin (colorist), Rus Wooton (letterer)
Publisher: Image Comics
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