Doctor Aphra (2020) #23 - Comic Review

The stakes are high in what feels like the last moments of Doctor Aphra (2020). The latest comic issue brings together all the main characters of the Aphraverse on a collision course with the Spark, a mystical Ascendant entity who has possessed Doctor Aphra and is planning to conquer the universe. Although this twenty third issue’s theme is plotting and planning for what’s to come in the (presumed) finale of the series, every moment is so crucial to the overall storytelling that you won’t be able to get your eyes off of every comic panel.

Writer Alyssa Wong is going all in, poker style. Bringing Magna Tolvan back to the series has been on the fans’ bucket list, and seeing all of Aphra’s exes, family members, and frenemies feels like a Marvel Cinematic Universe-style ensemble. In Doctor Aphra (2020) #23, Wong opened up old wounds while allowing each character to move on from their personal grudges against Aphra in order to exorcise the Spark out of her. Meanwhile, Just Lucky and Ariole Yu have their own personal agenda, and it’s not about saving the rogue archaeologist but rather attempting to retrieve the Ascendant tech for their boss Ronen Tagge (business is business, nothing personal).

The art of Doctor Aphra (2020) #23 is stunning as always, with Minkyu Jung’s eye catching characters and locations, all paired with some of the absolute best work from colorist Rachelle Rosenberg. The color artist really hit the mark with the ominous reds of the Spark and the luscious purple and light blue hues of the planet at the end of the issue (no spoilers here, huge reveal at that location). The lettering by VC’s Joe Caramagna delivers that extra layer of non verbal storytelling that just completes the comic issue. The main cover of Doctor Aphra (2020) #23 is by W. Scott Forbes, and this time Aphra’s frenemies are featured in favor of the rogue archaeologist—with an ensemble of Kho Phon Farrus, Detta Yao, Sana Starros, and Eustacia Okka. The issue also has variant covers by Chris Sprouse, Karl Story & Neeraj Menon (Choose Your Destiny) featuring Darth Maul and his double bladed lightsaber, and by Rickie Yagawa & Chris Sotomayor with Aphra and The Archivist front and center.

The preparation for the final showdown between the Spark and Aphra’s team is here. Make sure to grab a copy of Doctor Aphra (2020) #23 today from your favorite comic book store.