J’onn J’onzz, aka the Martian Manhunter, has split his identity into different people across the planet in an attempt to hide himself from the coming martian invasion. Those that are now Martian Manhunter, begin to converge towards each other in Ghana with the hope someone will know what to do.

The tone of the Martian Manhunter series up to this point has been all over the place. It has switched from humor, to horror, to noir, with no real sense of identity. This all changes with Martian Manhunter #5. This is the most concise issue yet, focusing on the fun and entertaining interactions of the different bodies Martian Manhunter has put his identity into. Especially entertaining is Mr. Biscuits. His is a bizarre, grotesque, green alien who can only walk if he has a cane and loves biscuits. He is by far the most enjoyable character because, he is not sure if he is good, evil, or even sane. This leads to many awkward moments as he and the other beings with J’onn’s soul, make their way to meet with Mould who, they say, will know what to do. Beneath the fun exterior, the threat of the martian invasion continues to build and the powers they have to manipulate the world are genuinely frightening. Writer Rob Williams, does a very commendable job of making the martian invasion seem terrifying by keeping them in the background. They become a shadow that lingers over everyone, just waiting fully engulf the world.

The artwork is consistently strong throughout. It especially impresses in the few scenes where the white martians make their first real strike. The grotesque Martian Maneater is imposing and the sheer determination placed on the face of the white martians creates subtle horror in their inescapable desire to take Earth. Also, Mr. Biscuit is portrayed many times in a way to where his physical humor only adds to the comedy of his strange words.

Overall, this is the best issue of Martian Manhunter so far. The story creates a fun dynamic between J’onn’s personality carriers, while still building the ever growing threat of the martian invasion. New readers will be confused if they have not read anything before this point but, if you’re willing to read a few of the prior issues, this is a fantastic read.

Story: Rob Williams Art: Diogenes Neves
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy