Strange (2021) #1-5

Strange (2021) #1-5

 Marvel Comics' Strange (2021) by Jed MacKay begins with Clea Strange stepping into the role of Sorcerer Supreme following the death of her husband, Stephen Strange. The first issue sets the stage with Clea navigating her grief while asserting herself as a powerful and determined protector of Earth. She faces challenges from Wong, who questions her motivations, and hostile threats from magical enemies seeking to exploit Stephen’s absence. Clea’s resolve is clear: she intends not only to protect the world but also to find a way to resurrect her husband, no matter the cost.

In the second issue, Clea takes on the Blasphemy Cartel, a mysterious organization exploiting dark magic for nefarious purposes. The Cartel's soldiers wield undead-like powers, posing a significant threat. Clea demonstrates her otherworldly strength and her unique approach to magic, which diverges from Stephen’s methods, showcasing her lineage as the Faltine, a race of powerful magical beings. This issue also begins to unravel the secrets behind the Blasphemy Cartel and its connections to the larger Marvel Universe.

By the third issue, Clea’s investigations into Stephen’s death and the Cartel lead her to a shocking revelation: a corrupted version of the Harvestman, a grim reaper-like figure tied to Death, is stalking her every move. This confrontation escalates her quest to find Stephen's soul. Clea’s determination to resurrect her husband puts her at odds with cosmic and mystical forces, raising questions about the balance between life and death and the potential consequences of her actions.

In the fourth issue, Clea’s battle with the Harvestman intensifies, as their encounters reveal deeper truths about the fabric of magic and the forces opposing her. The issue balances intense action with Clea’s introspective moments as she reflects on her identity—not just as Stephen’s widow, but as a powerful sorceress in her own right. Clea’s sharp wit, combined with her raw power, sets her apart as she faces mounting challenges from enemies both old and new.

The fifth issue climaxes with Clea uncovering critical information about the Blasphemy Cartel’s origins and their links to a larger magical conspiracy. She also faces a heart-wrenching moral dilemma when the Harvestman’s identity is revealed to be closely tied to Stephen Strange in a twisted and unexpected way. This revelation reframes Clea’s mission and sets up a powerful emotional conflict for the series moving forward, highlighting Jed MacKay’s intricate plotting and Clea’s growth as both a hero and a person.

I give this arc a 7/10.