REVIEW: 'A Thing Called Truth' #4 by Iolanda Zanfardino and Elisa Romboli

 

A THING CALLED TRUTH #4 

Writer: Iolanda Zanfardino

Artist: Elisa Romboli

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: February 2, 2022

Cover Price: $3.99

Our two troublemakers are only at the second stop of their journey, but something is changing between them. Even the headstrong Doctor Mag is starting to realize it.

Meanwhile, someone at home notices Doc's mysterious disappearance and draws the attention of the intimidating pharmaceutical company.

Score:

★★★★ (4/5)

The wild European vacation adventure continues as Doctor Mag and Dorian take Spain by storm. Their shenanigans continue in Madrid as they follow Dorian's brother's famous film locations. The odd couple keeps bonding and getting to know one another as they both come out of their comfort zone. This time it's Dorian's turn to let loose and try something new. 

The unlikeliest of pairings between the workaholic Doctor Mag and the hardworking but free spirit of Dorian keep endearing themselves to one another and readers. There is much to like about how each draws the best of one another as they form this friendship. There is sadness beneath the surface for both of them but it's become evident they need one another now more than ever. And while Dorian has taken a liking to Mag, something she is wary of because of Mag's presumed sexual identity, the two keep having a blast as they tear through Europe. 

As much fun as their relationship has grown, Mag's disappearance has finally gotten noticed back home and that may change her journey. Regardless, 'A Thing Called Truth' is a joyful and funny buddy comedy that hints at romance but really nourishes a budding friendship amid personal loss. Iolanda Zanfardino balances the fun with the serious which makes it all the more relatable while also being an aspirational jaunt through Europe. There's no doubt their journey will have to come to some sort of reckoning but readers aren't ready for this trip to end. The question of romance between them continues to hang over the series but Zanfardino isn't tipping her hand. 

 Elisa Romboli's illustrations are so vibrant and effervescent that the vibe is a joyful one. Even when some homophobic patrons get a tad too loud their comeuppance is a crowd-pleasing moment. Romboli's sense of joy and sometimes cartoonish exuberance makes the poignant moments hit that much harder because the tone is so different. She masterfully conducts the tempo and tone of the series through ink and color. 

'A Thing Called Truth' chugs along with a zest for life as our two heroines let loose in Madrid and Paris. They draw closer as their journey takes them to new locales and experiences. It's a feel-good buddy road trip with a lot of depth that balances joyous escapades with pathos.