By Benjamin Morin — Stealth is one of those ongoing titles that does not seem to be getting the buzz it deserves. It totally flew under my radar until a good buddy of mine gave me the first issue, and from there I was hooked. This series started off with an extremely fresh concept and has consistently delivered fun and engaging issues. Stealth #4 is no different as it builds off of the tense conclusion of the previous issue and delivers an action packed story.

This latest installment deals with the fallout of Stealth’s predicament from the previous issue and further develops Tony’s search for answers. The parallel narratives of Tony and his dad continue to be the driving force behind the book, even if the father/son dynamic has taken a backseat. I especially appreciate how writer Mike Costa plays with Stealth’s declining mental faculties. It adds an extra layer of tension to his scenes and creates an unreliable narrator that can inadvertently distort reality.

The issue also continues to deliver gripping action set pieces brilliantly conveyed through Nate Bellegarde’s artwork. His linework creates crisp fight scenes and also allows him to encapsulate the emotional side of the narrative. This becomes especially prevalent with Tony’s arc as he attempts to uncover the ghosts of his father’s past and the toll the answers take on him. Bellegarde’s artwork is only then enhanced by Tamra Bonvillain’s wonderful coloring. She continues to breathe life into the action through vibrant infernos and Stealth’s signature neon glow.

One of my favorite parts of this series has been the development of the main villain, Dead Hand. He reminds me of the kind of villain you would find in an old ‘80s action movie, over the top in all the best ways. From his callous indifference towards his own men to his unironic bravado, he captures each panel and adds an element of levity to the story. This issue in particular focuses on setting up his master plan for Stealth and it left me excited for how it will play out.

Altogether, Stealth #4 is another standout issue in the series. Though I do wish the father/son dynamic of earlier issues would be touched upon more, I do appreciate the direction the series seems to be moving in. This issue sets up the narrative for its final act and I cannot wait to see how the various plot threads will come together.

Overall: The stakes have never been higher as Stealth is thrust headfirst into Dead Hand’s war. Stealth #4 provides a thrilling issue that sets up the coming battle while delving deeper into the titular hero’s past. 8.5/10

Review - Stealth #4

Stealth #4
Writer: Mike Costa
Artist: Nate Bellegarde
Colorist: Tamra Bonvillain
Letterer: Sal Cipriano
Publisher: Image Comics
Price: $3.99
Dead Hand brings war to Stealth’s front door! Plus, is Tony willing to die to uncover the secret history of his father’s career as Stealth?
Release Date: August 12, 2020
Buy It Digitally: Stealth #4

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Benjamin Morin currently studies Journalism/Mass Media at Johnson University. He is a comic book enthusiast and aspiring filmmaker.