Transhuman #4 – Review

By Jonathan Hickman (Writer) and J.M. Ringuet (Artist)

Some Thoughts Before The Review: I was unable to get reviews up for the first three chapters of Transhuman, but let it be known that I have loved the series so far. It tells the story of two companies competing against each other to be the first to bring human modification/evolution to the mass consumer market. One company, Chimera, focused on advancement and alteration through genetic or biological tinkering. The other, Humonics, focused on a more technological approach by using robotics and machinery to modify potential human. Presented as a “mockumentary,” Transhuman has proven to be disturbing, hilarious, and extremely compelling up to this point. I strongly urge all my readers to check it out. Now onto my review of the final chapter.

The Story: Transhuman #4 focuses on the current state of the world, ten years after the takeover of Chimera by Humonics. The unnamed narrator catches up with all the major players that were a part of the transhumanist movement as driven by Chimera and Humonics.

What’s Good: Jonathan Hickman deftly mixes biting humor with an intelligent, disturbing vision of the future to bring his mockumentary to a satisfying finish. Nervous laughter is almost guaranteed upon discovering the identity of the narrator and what mankind’s search for utopia on earth has lead to. And that, readers, is a sure sign that Transhuman is a success.

What’s Not So Good: Though far from a story driven by the artwork, J.M. Ringuet’s visuals never really rise above being average. Even the most impressive scenes look sloppy, muddy, and somewhat unpolished.

Conclusion: Transhuman #4 is a great conclusion to an incredibly entertaining mini-series. Definitely take some time to track it down.

Grade: B+

-Kyle Posluszny