The situation with Nuclear Man (issues 1-5) left Ripley with unresolved trauma, giving her nightmares for weeks. So she’s attempting to cope with this by becoming as powerful as possible to never need saving again. No matter what it takes, she won’t be put in that situation again. Writer Kelly Thompson works with artist Carmen Carnero, color artist Tamra Bonvillain, and letterer VC’s Clayton Cowles to bring another story arc to an emotional close.

In her attempts to become stronger, Star made an enemy of Captain Marvel by trying to drain her of her powers. She truly believes that Captain Marvel is hurting people every time she saves them because she prevents them from becoming stronger. However, she underestimated how hard Carol is willing to fight and how easily the tide of public opinion can be turned. 

Wanting to make sure no one is hurt is a noble goal, but Thompson shows how Ripley is misguided and mishandling the situation. Ripley is so stuck in her mindset that she’s a victim that she’s unable to see the harm she’s causing. She can’t see how, instead of making anyone stronger, she’s hurting countless others and creating more victims. 

The most powerful scenes in this issue are very different. First is Captain Marvel confronting Star and calling out her coping mechanism as toxic and harmful. While it’s not a fight scene, it feels just as impactful. The second most powerful scene occurs when a little girl stands between them, trying to protect Captain Marvel. Star shows her true colors when she has no qualms pushing the girl out of the way to get to Captain Marvel. As much as Ripley claims to want to help people, she really just wants to help herself. 

While the story wraps up more neatly than it would, in reality, healing is a lifelong process in many cases, it’s still an important look into trauma, and how victims can become just as harmful as the person who harmed them. And just because she lost the fight doesn’t mean Ripley is gone for good- it looks like she’ll be back to cause problems for Carol. 

GRADE: A-

If you need immediate assistance dealing with trauma: 

National Center for Victims of Crime: 800-FYI-CALL (800-394-2255)

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK (8255); 888-628-9454 (Spanish); 800-799-4889 (TTY)

Disaster Distress Helpline: 800-985-5990