Armored #5 [Advance Review]
The first arc of Armored has been a whirlwind of supernatural intrigue, emotional drama, and bold visual storytelling. With issue #5, Michael Schwartz and Ismael Hernandez bring their opening chapter to a thunderous conclusion, leaving readers both satisfied and yearning for more. This climactic installment continues the saga of Andy, a plucky orphan who stumbled upon an ancient mystical power, and his struggle against the malevolent Myles, a resurrected figure whose demonic influence is spreading like wildfire.
After losing the emblem that allowed him to summon his mystical armor, Andy finds himself at his lowest point. Myles, now fully embracing his demonic form, tightens his grip on the town, spreading fear and chaos with alarming ease. The stakes couldn’t be higher for Andy—or the town’s survival. However, as Schwartz reveals in this issue, the armor’s magic isn’t merely external. Andy’s ability to wield it lies dormant within, tied intrinsically to his own identity and resolve. This revelation doesn’t just offer hope; it reframes Andy’s entire journey.
Schwartz’s writing has consistently balanced supernatural spectacle with grounded emotional weight, and issue #5 is no exception. The showdown between Andy and Myles feels both epic and intimate. Moments of terror and tension are punctuated by heartfelt exchanges—particularly between Andy and his ally Tamina. The dialogue is raw and authentic, as characters grapple with grief, fear, and newfound responsibility. A highlight is Tamina’s confrontation with her father, whose past actions have contributed to the chaos.
Schwartz also excels in pacing, keeping the narrative tight and engaging. The issue alternates seamlessly between high-octane action and quieter, reflective moments, ensuring that neither the emotional beats nor the spectacle feel rushed. Foreshadowing continues to be a strength, with subtle hints at a larger mythology that ties the armor’s magic to ancient forces hinted at in the "Bible of Death." These breadcrumbs set the stage for what promises to be an even more expansive story moving forward.
If Michael Schwartz provides the beating heart of Armored, Ismael Hernandez supplies its stunning visual soul. Hernandez’s art in issue #5 is nothing short of breathtaking. His signature style—dynamic ink work layered over lush watercolor textures—infuses every panel with life and tension.
The backgrounds are immersive, from the eerie, fog-laden forests to the shadow-drenched streets of the town. Hernandez’s use of light and shadow elevates the comic’s horror elements, casting ghostly figures in spectral glows and drenching Myles in menacing red hues that underline his transformation. These visual contrasts perfectly complement the thematic duality of light and dark, hope and despair, that runs through Schwartz’s narrative.
Hernandez’s character work continues to shine. Andy’s expressions of terror and determination convey volumes without a word, while Myles’s visage feels appropriately grotesque and otherworldly with its uncanny nature. Tamina, too, stands out, her steely resolve captured in sharp, purposeful lines. The action sequences are kinetic and exhilarating, with fluid motion lines and striking foreshortening lending a cinematic quality to every clash.
But it’s the tonal versatility that makes Hernandez’s art a standout. He transitions effortlessly from the unsettling discomfort of seeing Myles’ demonic form to tender, emotionally charged scenes between characters. This balance ensures that Armored remains visually compelling without ever losing sight of its emotional core.
The final pages of Armored #5 deliver a satisfying yet tantalizing cliffhanger. While the resolution of Andy’s immediate struggle offers a sense of closure, Schwartz leaves just enough unresolved to keep fans eagerly anticipating what’s next. The interplay of loss, redemption, and resilience ties this chapter together thematically, giving readers a clear sense of how far Andy has come—and how much further he has to go.
Schwartz and Hernandez’s collaboration has been the cornerstone of Armored’s success. Schwartz’s ability to weave relatable, human struggles into a fantastical framework complements Hernandez’s dynamic and atmospheric art. Together, they’ve crafted a story that feels both intimate and grand, a modern fable with real emotional stakes.
Final Thoughts
As the curtain falls on the first arc of Armored, it’s clear that Michael Schwartz and Ismael Hernandez have created something special. From its vivid characters to its supernatural intrigue, the comic strikes a balance between heartfelt storytelling and thrilling visuals. Schwartz’s dedication to his craft, evident in his compelling narrative, speaks volumes about his passion for the medium. Meanwhile, Hernandez’s art elevates the story to a level that feels fresh and unforgettable.
Armored #5 is more than just the conclusion to an excellent arc; it’s a promise of what’s to come. For readers who’ve been following Andy’s journey, this issue delivers a poignant, action-packed finale. And for those yet to pick up Armored, there’s no better time to dive in. Schwartz and Hernandez have laid a strong foundation for what could become a standout series, particularly for younger fans just getting into the medium.
A final, personal note: I know firsthand that Michael Schwartz's journey to bring Armored to life is as compelling as the story within its pages. From self-financing the project to navigating the challenges of publishing and marketing, Schwartz's dedication reflects a profound passion for storytelling and the comic medium. His willingness to invest not only financially but emotionally into Armored—reaching out to icons like R.L. Stine and Dan Aykroyd for endorsements and tirelessly advocating for his work—underscores his commitment to his craft. This is more than just a debut; it's a testament to the power of perseverance and creative vision. If Armored is any indication of what Schwartz can achieve, we should eagerly anticipate more bold, heartfelt projects from him in the future.
Michael and I enjoying our time at NY Comic Con back in October
