Doctor Doom has taken over the world, and Earth’s mightiest heroes have failed twice: first to stop him, and now to overthrow him. But the Fantastic Four know Doom better than anyone, which makes them ideally suited to take on Earth’s new Emperor…except for the fact that he knows THEM just as well. As Reed Richards, Ben Grimm, and Sue and Johnny Storm prepare to face down Doom at the United Nations, Doom pays a secret visit to speak to the only person on Earth who holds both his favor, his respect…and his love. But can Valeria Richards change her uncle’s mind? And if she fails, what will stop Doom from visiting a shocking fate on the Fantastic Four that not even he can undo? One World Under Doom #2 is an issue that packs a lot in, filled with philosophical debate and action.

Ryan North so far has been knocking it out of the park in the main series for Marvel’s current status-quo shaking “One World Under Doom.” Doctor Doom has taken over the world and seems to be improving it. And thus the interesting depth of the second issue. One World Under Doom #2 focuses in an not just what has changed, and the attitude of various people around the world, but gets to the underlying philosophy driving Doom.

It’s an issue that challenges the reader to decide for themselves if what Doom is doing is right or wrong, and so far, hasn’t taken a position. North interestingly presents a situation where yes, Doom has taken over the world, but with that he’s bringing peace, improved healthcare, improved education, overall, a perceived improvement in the quality of life for individuals. We learn what has changed and the why in an intriguing discussion between Doom and Valeria as the two discuss various political philosophies while also examining that state of the world pre and post Doom’s take over.

But, not everything is peaceful and North sets up and resistance to Doom’s total domination. Of course the Fantastic Four make a move while the Avengers plan and find allies to help their cause. While the Fantastic Four aspect is interesting at times, presenting difficult decisions, the sequence feels a little rushed and not well planned out, especially for the FF. It’s much more punch for results than an actual plan to confront Doom. In no way do their actions really match what is said by Reed and the rest. That’s the one negative. But, it also highlights that not only is Doom ahead of the heroes in every way, but he also has followers that truly are supporting his vision.

The art by R.B. Silva continues to be solid. With color by David Curiel and lettering by Travis Lanham, the comic does an interesting thing with presenting a world that feels a bit like a utopia. It’s bright, it’s clean, it seems visually like an ideal place to live. That is juxtaposed with when heroes are present which presents a bit more dirt and destruction. Visually, there’s order and chaos, peace and violence, and the team highlights that perfectly. The “person on the street” segments too show off a wide variety of individuals which helps visually to nail down how wide Doom’s support is. The art is key in nailing down the points North’s narrative is trying to make.

One World Under Doom #2 is another excellent issue for a series that so far has exceeded expectations. It challenges the order of heroes in many ways and challenges the politics of our real world while presenting an offer some might choose if presented in reality. It’s an issue that makes you think and entertains.

Story: Ryan North Art: R.B. Silva
Color: David Curiel Letterer: Travis Lanham
Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75 Recommendation: Buy

Marvel provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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