The Domain hasn’t shied away from a more realistic approach to the idea of superheroes and first contact with alien races, and that continues in Domain #3. Destiny, Liz, and Max learn that only one person can use the alien relic they find, and using it grants them the knowledge of others (for example: Max says that the first time he wore the relic, he gained medical knowledge from a paramedic). But as the alien they “captured” warns, there are forces out there that want the relic, and falling into their hands could mean the end of the universe.
Before things get too apocalyptic, Chip Zadarsky and Rachel Stott tell a sometimes funny, yet very human story. The first half comes from a group of alien pirates who land on Earth in search of The Domain. The police assume they’re rowdy cosplayers, only to wake up to a pretty awful reality. At the same time, our three “prisoners” openly discuss their chances of survival, even going so far as to say, “I can’t believe we have the most powerful weapon in the universe.”
But things take a turn when Destiny, upon learning about The Domain’s powers, freezes up when she tries to use them to save people from a burning building. This causes her to get drunk and make some pretty rash decisions, but Zdarsky is smart enough to portray this as a torrent of emotion. We all feel like we would do certain things if we had our favorite heroes’ powers, but human urges still remain… like the urge to get away from a burning building. Powers, in whatever form, tend to reveal the truth about a person, and in Destiny’s case, it shows that she still has insecurities she needs to face.
Stott continues to expertly combine the mundane with the fantastical. Seeing all the pirates of different sizes and shapes sitting in the police station is very entertaining, especially when they’re using computers. But she also has a talent for awe-inspiring, especially in the scene where Liz uses The Domain to save people from a burning building. It’s always great to see the costumed characters racing to get people to safety. Thanks to Ellen Angolini’s colors, the bright green and gold suit worn by The Domain stands out against the crackling flames and night sky.
“Domain #3 is solid proof that having superpowers doesn’t automatically make you a superhero. Even Spider-Man and Superman had to go through a learning curve before becoming the heroes they are today. It’s probably the same for our trio. Hopefully these final two issues will bring a satisfying conclusion.”
Domain Volume 3 depicts the ups and downs of a superhero
Domain #3
Domain 3 is solid evidence that having superpowers doesn’t automatically make you a superhero – in fact, it can reveal lingering mental issues.
It’s a sincere and thoughtful look at how psychic abilities can exacerbate lingering feelings of anxiety.
There are some funny moments, especially in the sections about alien life.
The artwork continues to be a blend of the fantastical and the everyday.
Two issues might be a bit short to bring it all together.
