In Review: Strange Adventures (2020-) #3

Synopsis: Can Adam Strange handle the truth? After the cosmic adventurer was accused of murder and had his whole record as a soldier questioned, he turned to Batman for help clearing his name. But someone else was needed to ensure that the investigation would be truly impartial. Enter Mr. Terrific, the man for whom “Fair Play” is a credo to live by. Be careful what you wish for, Adam Strange because your life is about to be turned upside down.

The Story

Concerned about the fact that Mr. Terrific is investigating him. Adam Strange goes about finding out what various members of the JLA have been asked about him. Strange feels that the investigation is in order to prevent him from protecting the Earth from a Pykkt invasion. In this issue we see Strange running around trying to find out if the investigation is legal. The main story is juxtaposed with some Flashbacks to Adam Strange when he fought an alien foe in order to defend his and his wife’s honor.

The Artwork

The art team of Mitch Gerads and Evan Shaner pull out all the stops for this issue and provide some brilliant panels. I particularly enjoyed the gladiatorial brutality of the flashback sequence, which sees Strange adopting the classic make them think you are weak when you’re really strong. I also liked the final few panels of the newscast reporting the meeting between Alanna and Batman.

Overall

A solid issue with lots of action and intrigue but very little forward momentum in regards to the plot. I really enjoyed the Flashback elements of the story. But feel that the conspiracy angle of whether or not Strange is guilty or not is being dragged out a little bit. I mean we know that Mr. Terriffic is investigating, but have not really seen too much of him since he entered the story in the last issue.

It would be fantastic to see something happen with regard to pacing in the next issue, but if its anything like this issue. I’m probably going to drop this book from my list. At the moment this feels like more of an art book, which is great. But a few more reveals in regards to where the story is actually going would be great.