As new evidence points to political motives, FBI and KGB agents press deeper into the mystery, following a trail of blood… that may lead them straight to the killer. No Man’s Land #3 is a tense issue as the agents discuss the motive behind the killing they’re investigating.

Written by and art by Szymon Kudrański, No Man’s Land #3 is a solid third issue that puts forth the motivations and drive behind the killing that launched the series. It’s an interesting discussion of religion and the political reality of the time but stands out for the details and focus of the discussion.

No Man’s Land #3 takes place in Alaska, at a point that the Soviet Union and United States aren’t physically far apart. Kudrański focuses in on that location and the reality for the people that inhabited the lands, likely before there even was a Soviet Union and United States. People traded back and forth between nations. People split by invisible lines that impacted their way of life. It’s an interesting discussion and focus mixed with the religious symbology of the killer and the cultural beliefs of the indigenous population. And that’s part of what makes the comic excellent. While it dives into those beliefs it doesn’t mince and wash over the time the comic takes place. This isn’t an “indigenous” group, it’s the “natives.” The comic, and writing, feels like it respects the time period and views during it, instead of updating things in a way that takes you out of its setting. And that setting is key. While things are tense between nations today, it was very different during the Cold War with the threat of things unraveling over the smallest thing. The comic knows it and makes sure to remind readers of that. This is an investigation walking on eggshells.

Kudrański’s art delivers the mood, along with DC Hopkins‘ lettering. It’s a vibe and feel that comes off as a mix of the X-Files, The Silence of the Lambs, and general horror. There’s a tense quality to No Man’s Land #3 where you never know what image might surprise you or what might be around a corner or hiding in a shadow. The comic has a mood to it that makes it a dour experience but one that keeps you engaged and hooked to see what happens next.

No Man’s Land #3 is another solid entry that feels like it makes some leaps in it conclusions but the logic all makes sense and can easily be followed. If you like a murder mystery infused and dripping with horror this is a series that’s not to be missed.

(W) Szymon Kudrański (A) Szymon Kudrański (L) DC Hopkins
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25 Recommendation: Buy

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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