Jessica Jones #9 Review

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis / Artist: Michael Gaydos / Marvel Comics

In the words of Al Pacino, “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.” Such is my relationship with Jessica Jones from the end of the first arc through now, where a slow-burn plot with low stakes and heavy dialogue manages to keep me engaged, even if it’s on-again, off-again. This time it’s “on,” and as in the past with this series, it’s more due to the heavy dialogue than the slow-burn plot. The plots have been negligible at best; at worst, a promising build with disappointing payoff. The dialogue and artwork though – they create scenes that are engaging, often charming, that keep you invested where the plot fails. All the way down to Jess taking a shit.

Jessica Jones #9 Panel 1

This issue refocuses on Jessica’s relationship with Luke Cage, who is understandably angry at her after kidnapping their daughter during her last fiasco, which was a good-hearted attempt at heroism. The artwork does especially well in their reunion. Although Luke’s forgiveness seemingly comes from nowhere, a slow shower scene makes for genuine emotion, and their reconciliation comes in a conversation in bed with their sleeping child between them as a familiar conversation to anyone who’s ever reconciled and needed to catch up on all the life details that had been missed during the bad times.

Jessica Jones #9 Panel 2

As for Maria Hill and S.H.I.E.L.D., well, we will see where this goes. But for now – as for most of the past many issues – we keep reading for the character more than the plot. Her hero’s journey is a unique kind, and it doesn’t come from her defeating bad guys or saving lives, but learning to live a healthy life, nondestructive, with some semblance of stability.

8.4 out of 10

Reading Jessica Jones? Find BNP’s other reviews of the series here.

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  • Jordan Calhoun is a writer in New York City. His forthcoming debut book "Piccolo Is Black" is a celebration of the common adaptations we made while non-diverse pop culture helped us form identities. He holds a B.A. in Sociology and Criminal Justice, B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Japanese, and an M.P.A. in Public and Nonprofit Management and Policy. He might solve a mystery, or rewrite history. Find him on Instagram and Twitter @JordanMCalhoun

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