Reviewed by Avril Brown

Mark Waid is really starting to find his feet as the second and third issues of INCORRUPTIBLE build upon the slightly lackluster introductory issue and deliver an abundance of interesting new faces and insight into the reformed villain, Max Damage. His underage accomplice/former girlfriend Jailbait is as adorable as she is annoying, whining her objections over their recent alteration in lifestyle. A blast from Damage’s past named Dr. Orjean shows up, offering genetic enhancements to desperate people in search of some protection from the rampaging Plutonian, and another clue into how Max acquired his hard-as-steel skin.

I enjoyed the introduction of Dr. Orjean/Origin as he is reminiscent of the Marvel character Dark Beast. A villain who is so delightfully unapologetic for the misery his causes in the name of science is always an interesting addition. The snippy relationship between Jailbait and the one cop who remotely believes in Max’s reform is just as entertaining as the budding bro-mance between Max and Lieutenant Louis Armadale, especially as the later attempts to get the full story of what happened the day Max Damage decided to go straight. The conclusion of the third issue offers more scenes of that fateful day and greater understanding of not only why Max has reformed, but also why he was a villain to begin with.

Waid has successfully created another fascinating viewpoint into the world created in his IRREDEEMABLE books. While IRREDEEMABLE follows the disturbed Plutonian and the heroes hunting him, INCORRUPTIBLE highlights the aftermath of such wanton destruction and the unexpected consequences which have arisen from the insane actions of a demigod. Diaz is a gem of an artist, creating full, attractive characters (I love the freckles on Jailbait’s face, emphasizing her youth), spot-on facial expressions and a dramatic flair befitting a super hero book. Any fan of IRREDEEMABLE should be following INCORRUPTIBLE with a similar level of attentiveness and excitement.