Continuing the new, ongoing Scarlet Witch series, Scarlet Witch #2, written by Steve Orlando with art by Sara Pichelli, inks by Christopher Allen, coloring by Matthew Wilson, and lettering by Cory Petit, puts Wanda on a solo path to aid others in the darkest times of their lives. The first issue of this series finds Wanda resurrected from the events of The Trial of Magneto and wanting to use her powers to heal the world. With Darcy Lewis at her side, the pair open an emporium that houses the red door, an object that anyone in need can walk through to meet with Wanda. The end of the issue finds a familiar face desperately looking for Wanda’s assistance and leads directly into Scarlet Witch #2.
If the second issue of Scarlet Witch had to be summed up into one emotion, it would be grief — particularly the grief those feel when dealing with heavy loss. Viv Vision walks through the red door of Wanda’s shop, and she is in desperate need of help. She explains that her dreams are being ravaged by the memory of her dead mother, and that she’s begun to lose grip of her sanity, fearing that she won’t be able to survive. Wanda travels into Viv’s dreams to fight off the Dreamqueen, who is feeding off the trauma Viv has endured. This issue also includes a backup story featuring Storm and Wanda written by Stephanie Williams, with art by Christopher Allen, where Storm fully taps into her magic powers.
This issue continues to depict Wanda as a character who has endured many intense moments of grief and trauma throughout her comic history. Steve Orlando makes it known that Wanda isn’t a prisoner of her pain. Instead, she utilizes her own experiences to make sure those suffering have someone they can rely on. Scarlet Witch #2 makes it easier for readers to navigate Wanda’s sometimes confusing family tree. Orlando touches on how strange this situation can be without making things convoluted for readers.
Orlando weaves a story that shows how powerful Wanda is, even outside of her mutant powers, and makes her tap deep into her humanity. Williams’ backup story creates a fantastic back and forth between Storm and Wanda where Wanda encourages Storm to dig deep within herself to reach her true potential.
Sara Pichelli’s art in this series is truly top-notch, from outfit designs to the beads of water dripping from Wanda’s hands. Scarlet Witch #2 has Wanda and Viv travel into the Viv’s dreams to stop Dreamqueen from taking over Viv’s mind. Pichelli’s nightmare world is beautifully crafted, enchanting, and terrifying. Additionally, Matt Wilson’s coloring captures the magic of the world created in this issue. The reds of Wanda’s costume look incredibly vibrant against the contrasting colors of the Dreamqueen’s magic. Each page is perfectly designed, with each panel continuing into the next with ease. The backup story’s artwork also utilizes great character designs by artist Chris Allen and coloring by Dee Cunniffe, making a beautiful display of power when Wanda and Storm team up.
Scarlet Witch #2 continues to weave a new life for Wanda as she navigates her newfound purpose in helping those who come to her. Orlando and Pichelli craft a story about a woman using the chaos she has endured to move on and make a life for herself on her own terms. With artwork that truly makes readers feel as though they’re a part of Wanda’s reality, this issue is a treat from start to finish.
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