“LONG LIVE THE KING”“ brings New York Times best-selling writer Robert Venditti (WRATH OF THE ETERNAL WARRIOR) and acclaimed artists Joe Bennett (52) and Roberto de la Torre (Daredevil) deliver the penultimate chapter of Valiant“s flagship series!  Earth“s greatest champion, X-O Manowar must unite his greatest allies and fiercest enemies to face the Torment.
Plus: The X-O MANOWAR #50 COUNTDOWN GIVEAWAY continues right here! Each issue of “LONG LIVE THE KING”“ comes bagged with one of 50 micro-prints ”“ featuring artwork from a who“s who of comic superstars ”“ or even one-of-a-kind original art!
A fitting “edge of the seat” pace for the penultimate issue.  Aric of Dacia and Trill form an unlikely alliance to battle the Torment.  Venditti creates the perfect apocalyptic setting, the gravity of the approaching battle is felt quickly and the art’s scale adds to the script perfectly. The warriors move on to face the Torment in Manhattan where we find they are continuing to absorb the souls of earth’s inhabitants leaving devastation in their wake.  The battle is a fitting set up for the final issue with expected periods of intense action and sparse moments of hope.  The Torment as the final nemesis is just outstanding while the script continues to paint them as devoid of any emotion toward the world they are devouring, no thought for or against earth’s inhabitants.  The Torments only thought is to note the species they absorb and comment on their adequacy.  The conclusion, although a touch telegraphed, is again a perfect culmination of the issue and sets up for a grand finale.
Joe Bennet’s musculature detail is on display and the colors by Ulises make the penciling even more amazing.  The art truly mirrors the script, specifically the Torment.  The rendition of the antagonist is fluid and smooth adding to their dispassionate portrayal.  The team has succeeded yet again by setting up a final issue for X-O Manowar fitting for such an iconic character.
Near perfection!
[yasr_overall_rating]
Story: Robert Venditti
Art: Joe Bennett
Publisher: Valiant Comics
Publication Date: August 31st, 2016
Price: $3.99
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