Precious Metal #6 Review: A Dream-like Experience

Precious Metal #6

Review

Rating

9

Good

Writer: Darcy Van Poelgeest

Artist: Ian Bertram

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: November 13, 2024

Page Count: 56

Format: Single-issue

Precious Metal #6 delivers a stunning finale that cements the series as one of the most unique and visually spectacular sci-fi comics in recent memory. While the dense storytelling can be challenging at times, the overall experience is truly unforgettable.

Precious Metal #6

Review

Writer: Darcy Van Poelgeest

Artist: Ian Bertram

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: November 13, 2024

Page Count: 56

Format: Single-issue

Precious Metal #6 delivers a stunning finale that cements the series as one of the most unique and visually spectacular sci-fi comics in recent memory. While the dense storytelling can be challenging at times, the overall experience is truly unforgettable.

Rating

9

Good

The moment I finished reading Precious Metal #1, I knew it was going to be something special. It's rare to read a comic so utterly captivating in every aspect–from the writing to the art, coloring, and lettering. The series has been sci-fi perfection, transporting readers to a fascinating and dreamlike world. But now that we've reached the end of the road, does it stick the landing? Keep reading for my full review of Precious Metal #6!

Overview of Precious Metal #6

Max makes his final, desperate push to reach the mysterious cubes floating over the city. Bishop Fermosa pulls out all the stops to prevent Max from his goal. Together with the mysterious boy, it rests on Max's shoulders to finally access Wormwood, set things right, and rediscover his fated purpose within the world.

Image: Image Comics

Review

It's challenging to put into words the experience of reading Precious Metal. "Ethereal" perhaps comes closest to capturing its essence. The writing and storytelling are dense and poetic, while the visuals are otherworldly. It evokes the same sense of awe and bewilderment I felt when reading Alejandro Jodorowsky and Mœbius' The Incal for the first time. It projects that palpable sense of being simultaneously captivated and confused, yet it constantly sweeps you away with its audacious creative vision. I firmly believe that it is one of the most creatively impressive comics I’ve ever read, and it deserves every bit of gets and then some.

Even after six massive issues, the comic never ceases to amaze with its dreamlike visuals. Ian Bertram is a powerhouse of an artist with a knack for bringing to life a world that defies imagination. It’s incredible how every page reveals something strange and captivating, whether it's the world’s surreal scenery or a bizarrely beautiful character. Precious Metal is a series so rich in creativity and wonder that it’s almost frustratingly beautiful to look at. It’s like you can’t help but wonder how such things were conceived, let alone done so perfectly. 

Image: Image Comics

From start to finish, this final issue serves as a fantastic culmination of the series. The scale of the story is pushed over the top with Max making his final push to the heart of the city. The massive battle that ensues creates a grand sense of finality to what has been a rollercoaster of a series. The issue also lays out some touching connections to the original series, Little Bird, which leaves a rewarding feeling for long-time readers of the fascinating universe. 

The one potential downside to a story like Precious Metal is that the density of the writing can occasionally leave readers feeling lost. The intricate narrative demands your full attention and rewards multiple read-throughs. But that complexity is what makes Precious Metal such a stand-out comic book. While other series might offer more straightforward storytelling, few dare to be as ambitious and thought-provoking as this. It's simply incredible to see the level of work put into bringing such a bold and imaginative story to life. Van Poelgeest's script, Bertram's art, Matt Hollingsworth's colors, and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou's lettering all beautifully mesh together in perfect harmony to create a comic experience that’s truly out of this world.

Image: Image Comics

Final Thoughts

Precious Metal #6 is a fantastic end to one of this year’s most distinctive sci-fi comics. While the dense storytelling can be challenging, the breathtaking visuals and ambitious scope make for an unforgettable reading experience. This series cements Darcy Van Poelgeest and Ian Bertram as a powerhouse creative team in the world of comics, and I can’t wait to see if there’s more to come in the fascinating world they created. In a market often dominated by familiar franchises and safe bets, Precious Metal is a comic that dares to be strange, different, and captivating. It pushes the boundaries of what comics can achieve, both visually and narratively.

Why You Should Read Precious Metal

• It's a truly unique sci-fi epic that stands out in today's landscape
• Ian Bertram's artwork is consistently jaw-dropping and imaginative
• The story rewards multiple read-throughs with its layered, complex storytelling
• It expands on the world of Little Bird in fascinating and unexpected ways
• The series challenges readers and pushes the boundaries of comic book storytelling