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DMZ #8-10
DMZ: The Deluxe Edition: Book Four
New York City... otherwise known as the no man’s land in this second American civil war. Cut off from his support system and family, rookie journalist Matty Roth remains the lone voice for those left behind in the world’s most dangerous war zone.
Instead embracing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to document the city under siege with a classic journalist’s objectivity, Matty Roth has allowed himself to blur the lines to the point of no return, to fall in with politicians and opportunists, warlords and mercenaries. Having helped secure an election and fund an army, he commits perhaps the worst offense to date: trafficking in WMD on behalf of the newly elected Delgado regime.
Brian Wood and artist Riccardo Burchielli’s DMZ, one of Vertigo Comicste longest-running series, continues its blistering look at politically motivated war in what Popmatters states “reads like a journalistic document,” and actress/writer Felicia Day says is “amazing and has poignant analogies to our current political climate. Thought provoking and engrossing.” Joined by guest artists Cliff Chiang, David Lapham, Danijel Zezelj, Andrea Mutti, and Nathan Fox, DMZ: THE DELUXE EDITION BOOK FOUR collects issues #45-59 in the penultimate chapter of this critically acclaimed series.
Instead embracing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to document the city under siege with a classic journalist’s objectivity, Matty Roth has allowed himself to blur the lines to the point of no return, to fall in with politicians and opportunists, warlords and mercenaries. Having helped secure an election and fund an army, he commits perhaps the worst offense to date: trafficking in WMD on behalf of the newly elected Delgado regime.
Brian Wood and artist Riccardo Burchielli’s DMZ, one of Vertigo Comicste longest-running series, continues its blistering look at politically motivated war in what Popmatters states “reads like a journalistic document,” and actress/writer Felicia Day says is “amazing and has poignant analogies to our current political climate. Thought provoking and engrossing.” Joined by guest artists Cliff Chiang, David Lapham, Danijel Zezelj, Andrea Mutti, and Nathan Fox, DMZ: THE DELUXE EDITION BOOK FOUR collects issues #45-59 in the penultimate chapter of this critically acclaimed series.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2015
10 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
Brian Wood
1,173 books962 followersBrian Wood's history of published work includes over fifty volumes of genre-spanning original material.
From the 1500-page future war epic DMZ, the ecological disaster series The Massive, the American crime drama Briggs Land, and the groundbreaking lo-fi dystopia Channel Zero he has a 20-year track record of marrying thoughtful world-building and political commentary with compelling and diverse characters.
His YA novels - Demo, Local, The New York Four, and Mara - have made YALSA and New York Public Library best-of lists. His historical fiction - the viking series Northlanders, the American Revolution-centered Rebels, and the norse-samurai mashup Sword Daughter - are benchmarks in the comic book industry.
He's written some of the biggest franchises in pop culture, including Star Wars, Terminator, RoboCop, Conan The Barbarian, Robotech, and Planet Of The Apes. He’s written number-one-selling series for Marvel Comics. And he’s created and written multiple canonical stories for the Aliens universe, including the Zula Hendricks character.
From the 1500-page future war epic DMZ, the ecological disaster series The Massive, the American crime drama Briggs Land, and the groundbreaking lo-fi dystopia Channel Zero he has a 20-year track record of marrying thoughtful world-building and political commentary with compelling and diverse characters.
His YA novels - Demo, Local, The New York Four, and Mara - have made YALSA and New York Public Library best-of lists. His historical fiction - the viking series Northlanders, the American Revolution-centered Rebels, and the norse-samurai mashup Sword Daughter - are benchmarks in the comic book industry.
He's written some of the biggest franchises in pop culture, including Star Wars, Terminator, RoboCop, Conan The Barbarian, Robotech, and Planet Of The Apes. He’s written number-one-selling series for Marvel Comics. And he’s created and written multiple canonical stories for the Aliens universe, including the Zula Hendricks character.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 18, 2023
A hard time for Matty sees the end of the naïve idea of an independent New York in the worse possible way. I read the comic books #44 to #59 that are covered by this Deluxe Edition of Brian Wood's post modern American Civil war drama set in a Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), formerly known as New York city! A strong 9 out of 12, Four Stars for all the books covered by this edition.
2017 and 2013 read
2017 and 2013 read
December 2, 2024
Interesting look at what happens when you get too close or spend too much time with the subject matter vs remaining neutral.
March 31, 2021
Powinno być 4,5 lub 4 - ale przez wzgląd na dotychczasową fabułę i poziom, mogę nieco naciągnąć ocenę. Pod koniec historia łapie zadyszkę, a Wood zbyt łatwo pozwala Mattowi wyjść na prostą. I to jeszcze w takiej naciąganej roli. Byle uzasadnić jego powrót do Nowego Jorku po odkupienie. Łatwizna, która nieco razi w oczy. Ale poczekam do sierpnia na ostatni tom, aby się przekonać, czy nie był to usprawiedliwiony i niewielki wypadek przy pracy.
December 11, 2017
Matty Roth se involucra peligrosamente en la defensa de la Nación Delgado y termina tomando una decisión de la que se arrepentirá siempre, el ejército de los estados unidos va cerrando el cerco sobre la DMZ, con intención de acabar la guerra lo antes posible.
April 4, 2025
(Zero spoiler review) 2.5/5
The more things change, the more they stay the same, and one thing that is most definitely the same, is the bang average nature of this series. Brian Wood has squandered the last 50 or so issues. Quite how we have gotten so little story in that time is beyond me, and again, its more of the same here, except we get only half the book with the very good Ricardo Burchielli on art. Half of this compromising a series of one shots were Wood attempts to flex his sentimental muscles, with all the skill and authenticity of a fourteen year old discovering the craft of writing. It resonates about as much as a cheese grater slippery dip would resonate with my bottom. And then there are the plot holes... Just as disappointed as I was after book one. The more things change, the more they stay the same. 2.5/5
OmniBen.
The more things change, the more they stay the same, and one thing that is most definitely the same, is the bang average nature of this series. Brian Wood has squandered the last 50 or so issues. Quite how we have gotten so little story in that time is beyond me, and again, its more of the same here, except we get only half the book with the very good Ricardo Burchielli on art. Half of this compromising a series of one shots were Wood attempts to flex his sentimental muscles, with all the skill and authenticity of a fourteen year old discovering the craft of writing. It resonates about as much as a cheese grater slippery dip would resonate with my bottom. And then there are the plot holes... Just as disappointed as I was after book one. The more things change, the more they stay the same. 2.5/5
OmniBen.
September 16, 2023
It just makes me want to know the ending to this amazing story! Again I get myself thinking of the choices Matty makes and get angry but also sympathetic towards him! Incredible!
January 3, 2019
Another solid entry that definitely builds towards what I think will be an exciting conclusion. As good and consistent as the series has been, just a couple of things prevent me (yet again) from giving a five star review here.
Matty's character arc seemed, well, out of character to me, even with everything going on and the influences surrounding him. It doesn't permanently alter the series though, which was relieving. Also, there is a pivotal moment that seems portrayed as happening one way in the script and art, but described another way by the characters in the aftermath. I'm still not sure whether it was just presented in a confusing manner or if Wood is keeping the characters in the dark for a payoff in the final volume. This uncertainty hurt the book a bit for me personally though.
Overall this volume is a big win, however. There are many individual issues, usually involving ancillary characters, that really stand out. This echoes my previous sentiments about Matty only being a so-so protagonist, but regardless there are some brief but great side stories here. This volume features a wealth of guest artists as well, and I really enjoyed their stylistic contributions. A great continuation that just had a couple of nagging issues for me.
Matty's character arc seemed, well, out of character to me, even with everything going on and the influences surrounding him. It doesn't permanently alter the series though, which was relieving. Also, there is a pivotal moment that seems portrayed as happening one way in the script and art, but described another way by the characters in the aftermath. I'm still not sure whether it was just presented in a confusing manner or if Wood is keeping the characters in the dark for a payoff in the final volume. This uncertainty hurt the book a bit for me personally though.
Overall this volume is a big win, however. There are many individual issues, usually involving ancillary characters, that really stand out. This echoes my previous sentiments about Matty only being a so-so protagonist, but regardless there are some brief but great side stories here. This volume features a wealth of guest artists as well, and I really enjoyed their stylistic contributions. A great continuation that just had a couple of nagging issues for me.
October 19, 2019
This edition includes several volumes which touch on Matty's fall from grace and his return to the DMZ a very different man. In short, this is the volume where Matty really starts growing up. But honestly, this volume's highest points aren't about Matty at all - there's a whole collection of single issues focusing on other characters in the DMZ, either in full issues or short stories as part of the Issue 50. And these are mighty - Almost every one of them brought a lump to my throat - especially Wilson's, Amina's, and Decade Later's. Each told a very different story about distinct unique characters seeing the same event from different views and having very different responses to it. And each one blew me away. Matty's journey south through MIA is also a critical piece of his journey, and serves to set up the climax of the series. But I've just got to say, by the end of this collection, the series is firing on all cylinders, and is as harsh, gritty, honest, and hopeful in the face of chaos as it ever was. So much to digest, but all of it worth it.
April 30, 2019
4.5
DMZ is starting to conclude a few of the various storylines and I feel it is the right time. Wood let the last volume slip a little with quality and storylines that just ballooned too much for me. I initially enjoyed the series for the more central focused storyline.
Why the 4.5?
Big improvement for me and I think the next volume is in a good position to close out the series. DMZ is an interesting storyline and Brian Wood has been quite consistent with his plotting and character arcs. I'm still not a huge fan of the supporting characters, they don't tend to add much depth, but I forgive these moments as the story has momentum. Bring on the final volume.
DMZ is starting to conclude a few of the various storylines and I feel it is the right time. Wood let the last volume slip a little with quality and storylines that just ballooned too much for me. I initially enjoyed the series for the more central focused storyline.
Why the 4.5?
Big improvement for me and I think the next volume is in a good position to close out the series. DMZ is an interesting storyline and Brian Wood has been quite consistent with his plotting and character arcs. I'm still not a huge fan of the supporting characters, they don't tend to add much depth, but I forgive these moments as the story has momentum. Bring on the final volume.
April 28, 2024
To read this volume you might be confused as to how there could possibly be more to this series. I mean, everything gets leveled. Matty's character is completely broken down and the rebuilding begins here. Is there enough time left in this story to bring him back? Is he meant to be brought back? Where is Parco? I recommend this volume because it makes for a very bleak character study as we see into the heart of the main one. If you're patient and can appreciate the big picture, this is a great volume. This was a very good read.
October 11, 2024
Review is for the entire series read consecutively (Deluxe Vols. 1-5)
Wow. Brian Woods produced a masterpiece. A story and a world shot through with politics but uncontaminated by then-current politics, something modern authors could take note of.
The NYC he creates is populated with real people, and the various coalitions and conflicts are recognizable s well.
Read it to see humanity at it's best and it's worst.
Wow. Brian Woods produced a masterpiece. A story and a world shot through with politics but uncontaminated by then-current politics, something modern authors could take note of.
The NYC he creates is populated with real people, and the various coalitions and conflicts are recognizable s well.
Read it to see humanity at it's best and it's worst.
December 2, 2024
I simply wouldn't tell my ex-girlfriend she held me to too high a standard and in the next breath order my men to commit a war crime, but perhaps I'm built different. Also, incredibly fitting ending for the loose nuke subplot. A singular immobile nuclear warhead does not constitute a deterrent threat.
March 12, 2019
Rebekah Isaacs, Dave Gibbons, Andrea Mutti, Nathan Fox, Cliff Chiang, Danijel Zezelj , David Lapham were the standout guest artists in this Volume. Wood continues his spot on fantastic writing. I’m looking forward to Book 5, the conclusion.
January 31, 2020
4.5 stars. Continues to be a great story. The one shots in this volume were outstanding. Going to be a sad day when the story closes at the end of the next volume.
December 2, 2021
Getting the story back on track. The political stuff in the previous volume dragged a bit for me but it was great seeing the aftermath. Excited for the final volume.
March 1, 2022
It seems that this series has a constantly high quality level. Although the previous volume is still the best.
March 3, 2022
Συνεχίζει να είναι εξαιρετική αυτή η σειρά. Έμαθα ότι υπάρχει στα σκαριά και τηλεοπτική σειρά βασισμένη στο DMZ εν τω μεταξύ. Για να δούμε τι θα δούμε.
April 11, 2024
45-49, Hearts and Minds, ☆☆☆☆☆
50, Notes From the Underground, ☆☆☆☆
51-54, M.I.A., ☆☆☆☆☆
55-59, Collective Punishment,
50, Notes From the Underground, ☆☆☆☆
51-54, M.I.A., ☆☆☆☆☆
55-59, Collective Punishment,
July 3, 2024
Excellent tale and graphics. Highly recommended.
July 21, 2015
Hearts & Minds (45-49). "What the f*** happened to you Matty?" It's a great question that pretty much encapsulates this arc. We've seen Matty's devolution over four years, and here he hits rock bottom. It's a powerful character arc that's unfortunately hampered by some uneven writing, such as a hit that comes out of nowhere at the end of #45 and a somewhat unbelievable mistake at the end of #48. Still, it's an interesting story, and it's clearly a part of Matty's big story in DMZ. [7/10].
Notes from the Underground (50). A pretty forgettable set of stories about the DMZ that are also a bit obnoxious because they seem so out of place, with Matty doing serious journalism, something we haven't seen in forever in the rest of the comic [5/10].
MIA (51-54). A lot of this arc is water-treading, as Matty explores the depths to which he and his city have fallen. It's an interesting, if grim, vignette for the city. However the ending makes up for any slowness in the story to that point: it's one of those things that's so beautifully executed that you're amazed you didn't see it coming [7/10].
Collective Punishment (55-59). I was a little disappointed to not get straight back to Matty. It feels like Wood is dribbling out his character arc in little drabs, one issue every six or so. Still, he's always been very good at these single issues, and these are no exception. The single mother issue and the Wilson issue are both great, and we do get Matty in the end ... and it's terrific to see that things aren't going to be the same this time! [7/10].
Obviously, this is the major pivot point for the whole DMZ series, but it also feels mainly like a setup, with what's coming next being the big story ...
Notes from the Underground (50). A pretty forgettable set of stories about the DMZ that are also a bit obnoxious because they seem so out of place, with Matty doing serious journalism, something we haven't seen in forever in the rest of the comic [5/10].
MIA (51-54). A lot of this arc is water-treading, as Matty explores the depths to which he and his city have fallen. It's an interesting, if grim, vignette for the city. However the ending makes up for any slowness in the story to that point: it's one of those things that's so beautifully executed that you're amazed you didn't see it coming [7/10].
Collective Punishment (55-59). I was a little disappointed to not get straight back to Matty. It feels like Wood is dribbling out his character arc in little drabs, one issue every six or so. Still, he's always been very good at these single issues, and these are no exception. The single mother issue and the Wilson issue are both great, and we do get Matty in the end ... and it's terrific to see that things aren't going to be the same this time! [7/10].
Obviously, this is the major pivot point for the whole DMZ series, but it also feels mainly like a setup, with what's coming next being the big story ...
November 27, 2016
I ll put a collective review of all the episodes here.
Entertaining, Full of complex political plots, and you must appreciate how an individual caught up in the wrong situation had an ultimate choice to restore order within a society about to fall apart. You are submerged in intensity along the very end and also reminds us how we are responsible for the consequences resulted by our actions.
must read if you are an avid enthusiast of graphic novels and a mildly complex plot. This comic series although fictional, is completely leaning towards a realistic and logical collection of events to narrate events along the way. Consistent story telling in my opinion, a full hearty meal for your comic cravings.
I LOVE IT, my top 5 upto date!! Also, Be sure not to be disappointed by changes in art styles in few issues.
Entertaining, Full of complex political plots, and you must appreciate how an individual caught up in the wrong situation had an ultimate choice to restore order within a society about to fall apart. You are submerged in intensity along the very end and also reminds us how we are responsible for the consequences resulted by our actions.
must read if you are an avid enthusiast of graphic novels and a mildly complex plot. This comic series although fictional, is completely leaning towards a realistic and logical collection of events to narrate events along the way. Consistent story telling in my opinion, a full hearty meal for your comic cravings.
I LOVE IT, my top 5 upto date!! Also, Be sure not to be disappointed by changes in art styles in few issues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2025
4.5. If the previous deluxe edition was the tipping point, this is where everything truly falls apart.
Choices are made that can’t be undone, and by the time the consequences unfold, Manhattan’s fate feels all but lost. Some long-followed characters get semi-satisfying conclusions, but at the same time, the stage is undeniably set for an ending that promises to be messy and bittersweet for all involved.
War is always a disaster in the worst possible ways, and DMZ is ensuring its final act reflects that truth. Brian Wood has never shied away from the brutal realities of conflict, and he certainly isn’t starting now.
One issue left. Here we go.
Choices are made that can’t be undone, and by the time the consequences unfold, Manhattan’s fate feels all but lost. Some long-followed characters get semi-satisfying conclusions, but at the same time, the stage is undeniably set for an ending that promises to be messy and bittersweet for all involved.
War is always a disaster in the worst possible ways, and DMZ is ensuring its final act reflects that truth. Brian Wood has never shied away from the brutal realities of conflict, and he certainly isn’t starting now.
One issue left. Here we go.
June 6, 2016
Matty Roth is in over his heads, which is nothing new, but in this volume, the stakes couldn't be higher. One has to sympathize with him because no matter how much he tries to do the right thing, it ends up backfiring. It does seem by going back to the DMZ and refusing to take the caveats offered at the end of the story, that he's finally at peace with himself and whatever consequences might come after that.
November 6, 2016
Matty goes full Parco in this volume and he has to deal with its consequences. It was always to much for him, and maybe that's the idea. This volume sets up everything in the end of the series.
Included in here are some one shot stories, some good, others regular and one In particular great.
Included in here are some one shot stories, some good, others regular and one In particular great.
August 30, 2015
This series never fails to deliver. I just wish there was more to come.
December 22, 2016
Not my favorite series just want to finish it..... ok read
July 6, 2017
I love the art, characters, setting, everything
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews