Manhattan Projects #20 begins with an odd image of barbarians and paralel universes. Albert Einstein shares a series of drinks with Albrecht Einstein as they discuss the fact that they are now both in the same universe with similar goals. After traveling through several dimensions, the barbarian version of Albert Einstein finds himself commissioned to end the evil of Oppenheimer in every dimension. Oppenheimer, as you may remember, tends to be a sadistic canibal is most of his forms. The two Einsteins gather together and begin to form a plan, reliving the experience of their lives.
Jonathan Hickman has taken The Manhattan Projects on a wild ride that even the weirdest comic book lover may have a hard time following. This is not a comic one can just pick up a single issue of and expect to understand what is happening midbook. Hickman is a universe builder, not just of worlds. His scopes are broad, and his historically-based characters have moved so far away from their original forms that they rememble the figures in name and slight features only. Nick Pittara draws the graphic images of savage men and Oppenheimers sadism with exqusite skill. One may not want to look at a knife in a man’s head, but heck if you can look away from Pittara’s work. Jordie Bellaire rounds it out with her signature color style. It is understandable why Bellaire’s name is appearing on so many comic book covers these days.
The Manhattan Projects #20 is not for folks wanting a superhero story. Historians looking for accuracy need not apply. This is a whacked out insane ride of your life kind of comic. Be prepared to hold on and keep reading until the pieces finally start to make sense.
