Review: ‘Helen of Wyndhorn’ #5
Tom King gives us a devastatingly beautiful issue that strips away Helen's physical and emotional armor, revealing the raw vulnerability that still permeates this young woman who has dealt with so much in her young life. As she grapples with Barnabas's sudden cold shoulder after the events of the previous issue, Helen's inner turmoil boils over, leading to a heart-wrenching confrontation with her internal demons that makes her contemplate taking her own life. King's writing weaves a narrative that treats depression with grace, making it impossible not to be moved by Helen's anguish.
King astutely relies less Lilith’s narration in favor of Helen's own emotions via first-person dialogue, which is both cathartic and crushing. Her struggles with her father's legacy and her own mental state are laid bare, culminating in a haunting moment where she’s prepared to do the unthinkable. It's a testament to King's skill that he can tackle such heavy themes with sensitivity and nuance, never once feeling exploitative or manipulative.
Meanwhile, Lilith's fearless protection of Helen is a stunning showcase of King's ability to craft strong, complex female characters. Her unwavering loyalty to her ward is inspiring, and her confrontation with Barnabas as he battles a sea monster serves as the issue’s dramatic climax.
Bilquis Evely's artwork continues to set the tone brilliantly, imbuing every panel with a sense of wonder and magic. Even in the darkest moments, her lines and compositions are infused with a captivating beauty that refuses to let your attention wander. The swarm of fairies surrounding a broken Helen is a particularly striking image, conveying the character's emotional state. Matheus Lopes's colors are the perfect complement to Evely's lines, transporting us to a world that's fully alive. Clayton Cowles's lettering guides readers through the emotional rollercoaster of King's script and the fantastical visuals.
Helen of Wyndhorn #5 is another beautifully crafted issue in a series that leaves me in awe and yearning for the next adventure every single time. Every word, every line, and every color is imbued with purpose and feeling, making this issue a near perfect example of the comic book medium’s ability to tell a story.
Rating: 10/10
