Review: Trinity of Sin: Phantom Stranger Vol. 1- A Stranger Among Us
Quick Summary
Pros: The Phantom Stranger himself is a unique character who is interesting to examine. The book builds up a great deal of potential for the second volume.
Cons: A lot of sacrifices are made in order to provide the book with tons of exposition.
Overall: This is a book that really only works as an introduction to something bigger and better. The main narrative is thin and really only provides a mediocre level of entertainment. This is because the bulk of the book’s pages are spent introducing a host of minor characters in order to set them up for future stories. This results in an average quality book that creates a lot of potential for the second volume. We’d recommend this one to those heavily interested in the magical side of the DC Universe or those who have already heard good things about the second volume.
Story
Trinity of Sin- The Phantom Stranger Vol. 1: A Stranger Among Us, by Dan DiDio and J.M. DeMatteis, is a mostly introductory piece designed to familiarize readers with DC’s latest version of the Phantom Stranger. On its own, there is not much going on here; a few small skirmishes between the Stranger and other magical characters represent the bulk of the collection’s action. However, each of these skirmishes helps in introducing elements of the Stranger’s life and building up plot points to be utilized in the future. This creates a book that I am hesitantly optimistic about; if the second volume is good then this story will have been worth it, but if it is not good then it retroactively dampens my opinion of this volume.
(spoilers start here)
Right off the bat, the collection tells us who the Phantom Stranger was and what his role in the world currently is. He was Judas Iscariot, of Biblical fame, and has been cursed to atone for his sins. He is now directed, by the Voice, to gain the confidence of individuals so that he can ultimately betray them later. Though these actions come across as evil, they lead to a greater good that has been deemed necessary for the future. It is an interesting concept and one that creates an interesting dynamic within the Stranger’s own conscience. Though it has yet to be utilized in a tremendously unique way as of yet, it is one of the stronger aspects of this book and one that I am looking forward to watching develop as the series continues.
While the introduction to the Stranger mostly takes place in the book’s beginning, introductions to other characters are made throughout the collection. The Stranger comes across various individuals who will, undoubtedly, have an impact on his life, as the series continues. He meets one of Trigon’s sons, Pandora, Doctor Thirteen, the Justice League Dark, and the Spectre, all of whom have a strong connection to the magical aspects of the DC Universe. It is nice to see this series building up such an interesting cast of characters as it really makes the book feel part of a greater universe.
However, on the flip side, all of these meetings feel incredibly shallow. The Stranger meets the individual, interacts with them for a while, and then goes on his way with a tease that they will return sometime down the road. Reading through, these makes you feel as if you are a guest at a dinner party; constantly exchanging pleasantries but never having a meaningful conversation. It is a lot of setup but not setup that is necessarily worthwhile on its own, a problem that this entire collection seems to struggle with.
Besides introductions, the only major story told here involves the Stranger’s attempt to live a normal life with a family. He is married and has two children, yet is constantly paranoid with losing them. Seeing the Stranger attempt to balance his double life was amusing at points and helps readers get a better understanding for who he is as a person. It isn’t something that provides a major draw but does help in providing the book with a bit more structure and consistency.
(spoilers end here)
Art
For a book steeped in magical and spiritual energy, a dark and mysterious art style is essential. Brent Anderson’s pencils and Philip Tan’s inks create a book that meets this requirement and looks good while doing so. Though more mundane and civilian scenes don’t necessarily stand out, those emphasizing magic certainly do. Strange energies, cosmic wonder, and some unique paneling solidify these moments and are what make this book look nice visually. This isn’t the most beautiful book of all time, but it is one that does very well with the role it is given.
Continuity
Trinity of Sin- The Phantom Stranger Vol. 1: A Stranger Among Us starts the Phantom Stranger New 52 series. This means that this is the first volume in a brand new continuity, so there are not many references to previous books or specific character histories. This makes it a great starting point for new fans.
The Phantom Stranger series continues in Trinity of Sin- The Phantom Stranger Vol. 2: Breach of Faith.
This volume also makes references to other comic books, detailed below:
- The Stranger references his past altercation with Pandora, this happened in Justice League #6, which is collected in Justice League Vol 1: Origin (Review).
- Terrence Thirteen mentions a gate opening in Gemworld. This is a reference to Sword of Sorcery Vol. 1: Amethyst.
- Terrence Thirteen also mentions his ancestor’s battle against the Haunted Highwayman. This happens in the backup stories of All-Star Western #11-12, which are collected in All Star Western Vol. 2: The War of Lords and Owls.
- The Stranger references a past conversation he had with John Constantine. This conversation happened in Justice League Dark #14, which is collected in Justice League Dark Vol. 3: The Death of Magic (Review).