Bats, the ghost basset hound of Doctor Strange and Clea, senses an unsavory force has invaded the Sanctum Sanctorum. Without the assistance of the sorcerer supreme, Bats must investigate this potential haunting to discover the root of it by himself. With no one believing him, it’s up to Bats to combat the threat potentially. 

Following a similar decompression issue, Doctor Strange #12 by Jed MacKay and Danilo S. Beyruth turns its focus from the titular doctor to his fan-favorite pet Bats for a one-off adventure inside the Sanctum Sanctorum. Even if the issue shifts viewpoints, MacKay still paces substantial character work and relationships at the crux of his writing. Considering how mystical and otherworldly the Sorcerer Supreme’s world can become, his focus on character grounds the emotional arc of the narrative as well. Even if you were not a significant fan of Bats before the issue, he finds the hooks in which you hook yourself to a character. And while you should not need more of a reason to love Bats, he gives you plenty in spades. 

This “smaller adventure” provides another viewpoint in which Strange’s hubris often leads to his recurring problems. Considering how it takes place in the well-guarded magical home of the couple, Bats’s recurring mentioning of a potential problem that Strange willingly ignores creates the conflict of the issue and a reoccurring theme in the run. While the plot may not exceed the most adventurous previous stories, MacKay has never turned Doctor Strange Issue #12 into an inconsequential narrative by tying it to overarching character exploration. Simply put, this first part of a two-part adventure fills a different niche from the previous issues in the run so far. 

Beyrith’s fantastical art suits this more intimate and smaller story while not losing the magical identity of the world. I adore his depiction of the Sanctum Sanctorum, which feels cozy, warm, and mystical so that the characters would call it home. Plus, Beyruth portrays Strange, Clea, and Bats in a more heightened and cartoony style combined with a modern classic Marvel look, which suits MacKay’s story. KJ Díaz steps in as guest colorist for the issue and makes Beyruth’s work a true treat for the eyes. Outside of the popping colors for the Strange and the Vishanti at the beginning, he nails the magical vibes of the world and is never afraid of moving beyond what is considered natural. VC’s Cory Petit provides the lettering and contributes to the visual success of the title. Outside of the unique narration boxes for Bats, I appreciated touches like the sharpened balloon for an icy Clea or reverse text with a flipped color scheme for the “ghost.” 

Doctor Strange continues a solid run with another successful issue as the team shifts the focus from the large-scale action of the previous arc while still exploring the main character. MacKay still strongly focuses on characters and their relationships, as Beyruth’s guest work aligns with the previous artwork. Doctor Strange #12 is the first part of a smaller-scale story filled with excellent writing and great art.

Story: Jed MacKay Art: Danilo S. Beyruth
Color: KJ Díaz Letterer: VC’s Cory Petit
Story: 8.7 Art: 8.7 Overall: 8.7 Recommendation: Read

Marvel provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy review

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