Geiger #14 releases this week from Ghost Machine and Image Comics and brings the conflict in Lewiston to the brink. Since the beginning of this volume of Geiger, Geoff Johns and Gary Frank have teased the existence of a second “glowing man,” another being with the same powers and affliction as Tariq Geiger. Though the “glowing man” turned out to be a “glowing woman” named Ashley Arden, Tariq discovered that she may hold the key to finally controlling his powers. This issue reveals the truth about Lewiston and Arden. Though it seems Geiger and Arden are on the path to a cataclysmic confrontation, I fully expect Johns and Franks to subvert our expectations as they reach the finale of this story arc.
The story picks up with last issue’s cliffhanger: Geiger’s reunion with Dr. Molotov. As seen in the last volume of Geiger, prior to the Ghost Machine imprint’s launch, Dr. Molotov was at least partially responsible for the destruction of the world. He is also the man who designed Geiger’s equipment that allows him a modicum of control over his powers. This control has been slipping over the past issues, prompting Geiger to follow the rumors of a “Glowing Man” who had found a cure for their shared condition. Even if you hadn’t read the previous volume (though you should), Frank’s detailed facial artwork tells the reader all they need to know about the complicated history between these two characters. Without any dialogue, you can see the mix of fatherly care and fear in Dr. Molotov’s eyes and the conflict and rage bubbling beneath Geiger’s features. As I’ve mentioned before in my reviews, I’m a longtime admirer of Frank’s work from Marvel’s Incredible Hulk, to DC Comics’ Supergirl and the superb Midnight Nation. And Geiger has been some of his best work. As always, in Geiger, Frank’s pencils are enhanced by the color work of Brad Anderson. It’s always a treat to see Geiger and Arden activate their powers, and it feels like they are exploding out of the page. Rob Leigh’s sound effect choices give Junkyard Joe his heart. And his speech balloons perfectly frame Frank’s artwork allowing, all of the action to be seen clearly by the reader.
Geiger and Molotov’s reunion is cut short as the raging battle against the remnants of the U.S. Army find the two men. It is right before this moment that Johns chooses to reveal the true stakes of this story arc for Geiger and everyone in Lewiston. We are also given greater insight into Arden’s character and the tormented life she has led since her powers manifested. I won’t spoil any of these reveals, but I will say that Johns’ character arc for Ashley Arden has been superb, and I can’t wait for the possible finale next issue. What makes Arden such an interesting part of the story, for me, is how Johns subtly played with my expectations over the course of Geiger’s journey to Lewiston. Was Arden a myth? A trap designed by Geiger’s enemies? Friend or foe? The truth turned out to be all of the above in a way that felt like a powerful payoff to the clues laid in previous installments. Arden’s character is a mirror for Geiger and the choices he’s made since discovering the deaths of his family members. Did Arden choose a better path? Why has she been able to control her nuclear powers? Like all great comic foils, Arden presents a compelling argument that allows readers to see the flaws in the hero’s ethos like Magneto and Professor X in Marvel’s X-Men.
Geiger, like most of the Ghost Machine line, has found a permanent home in my comic pull list. Tariq Geiger is a nuanced and flawed protagonist. A man who experiences his anger made manifest in his deadly powers and is far from the typical comic book hero. Yet we root for this man who is crushed by grief and yet powers on. Issue #14 is a powerful one with lots of answers and strong character moments. A can’t miss for any fan of the series. As this current chapter in Lewiston seems to be coming to a close, I can’t wait to see where this book goes next.
Creative Team: Geoff Johns (Writer), Gary Frank (Artist), Brad Anderson (Colorist), Rob Leigh (Letterer)
Publisher: Ghost Machine/Image Comics
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