Comic Review: Wolverine #4 – Between Humanity and Adamantium

The fourth issue of the new Wolverine series, written by Saladin Ahmed and illustrated by Martín Cóccolo, is packed with emotion, atmosphere… and some narrative hiccups. The series maintains its high quality but isn’t free from issues that might hint at trouble ahead of the big milestone issue #400.

Consistency and development – the series’ biggest strengths

Let’s say it again – narrative continuity is a major strength of this series. From the first issue, it’s clear that Ahmed has a plan. The main storyline, where Logan confronts his inner demons alongside the mysterious threat of “golden adamantium,” unfolds slowly but steadily. While the adamantium subplot is starting to falter (more on that later), the emotional core of the story works very well.

Art and coloring: a visual highlight

Martín Cóccolo and Bryan Valenza are a duo that knows how to build atmosphere. The coloring in this issue is fantastic – after a few issues spent in the monochrome Canadian wilderness, we finally get fresh locations and much more visual breathing room. Rich colors, ambient lighting, and dynamic shading create a mood that perfectly complements the emotional tone of the story.

Cóccolo also excels in facial expressions – the variety and depth he gives the characters’ faces is striking, enhancing both emotional scenes and the action. One moment that really stood out was Wolverine’s subtle smile – a rare glimpse of warmth in a character so often brutal and world-weary.

Ahmed nails the tone… almost

Saladin Ahmed continues to show a great understanding of Logan’s voice – his inner monologues, dialogue, and reflections demonstrate deep character insight. You can feel the weight of his past, his struggle for humanity, and his fatigue, but also his unbreakable resolve. The subplot with Leonard – “Wen-Di-Go? No! Wen-Di-Stay!” – adds humor and also a layer of compassion for those who’ve lost themselves.

The problem begins when Ahmed starts over-explaining things. This issue features far too many redundant narration boxes that just repeat what we already see in the art. Case in point: Logan says, “I don’t know what the hell I’m seein’,” and in the next panel, “What in the hell is she doing to him?” It’s repetitive and breaks the flow, robbing the art of its power. Wolverine is a character who thrives on saying less, but meaning more.

The adamantium subplot: wasted potential?

The biggest weakness of the series is becoming more obvious: the golden adamantium and its infection. While this thread reappears in nearly every issue, Ahmed seems less and less interested in developing it. Its appearance in this issue is confusing, vague, and – frankly – boring. It lacks tension or structure. The final page is meant to be a big cliffhanger, but instead feels disjointed. It’s a shame, because the concept has real potential – it just needs more focus.

Action and humor: perfectly balanced

Fortunately, this issue makes up for those flaws with dynamic action and fun character interactions. The fight with Constrictor is a highlight – surprising, expressive, and well-paced. His terrified facial expressions after all his cocky talk are genuinely funny, and Ahmed perfectly blends humor with violence.

The battle with Lady Deathstrike also delivers, though it’s starting to feel a bit repetitive – future issues would benefit from more intricate fight choreography.

Conclusion: a strong issue with caveats

Wolverine #4 is a solid installment in a series that remains emotionally resonant, visually gorgeous, and consistent. Ahmed still writes Logan with rare insight, Cóccolo continues to deliver stunning panels, and Valenza breathes atmosphere into every page.

But… if this series wants to build to a truly impactful #400, it’s time to start treating the main plot with the same seriousness it gives to Logan’s personal struggles. Logan deserves more than just a strong emotional arc – he deserves a great story.

My Score: 7.5/10

Still a good series that knows what it wants to be – but it’s time for the story behind the claws to sharpen up too.