Clear #3

Clear, written by the Eisner and Harvey Award-winning writer Scott Snyder, known for his acclaimed works such as DC Comics’ Batman and Swamp Thing, as well as his creation American Vampire for Vertigo, is a remarkable piece of storytelling. Snyder’s writing is concise, clear, and free from overwhelming technological jargon. He skillfully narrates the tale of Sam Dunes and the veils, painting a vivid picture of a future that feels both distant and yet eerily familiar due to the continued advancement of the Metaverse and AI technology.

The stunning artwork in Clear, brought to life by Francis Manapul, writer and artist of The Flash, is truly breathtaking. Manapul’s masterful use of colors is evident in every panel, each one so impeccably crafted that it could easily be displayed as a standalone work of art in a gallery. The character designs are refreshingly unique, with the likes of The Widow, whose demeanor mirrors that of a black widow spider while exuding a wise and robotic presence in her speech and attire. Then there are the WRKS, humanoid robots assigned to optimize the server, showcasing the importance of thinking outside the box. Every page of this book showcases the undeniable mastery of these two talented artists.

The lettering by Andworld Design is flawless and seamlessly integrated into the narrative of the story. Reading Clear feels more like watching a captivating tale unfold before your eyes rather than simply reading words on a page. One particular standout moment is a shooting sequence expertly handled by Andworld Design, with each gunshot vividly brought to life in the reader’s mind. The words “BLAM” and “RATATAT” cleverly concealed within the panel have a tremendous impact, adding to the overall immersive experience. It’s moments like these that make stories like Clear truly remarkable. This is why I am a fan of the comic medium—because it offers unique and unparalleled experiences like this.