“FF” came out of the gate strong, delivering a great combination of gorgeous art and and fantastic storytelling. But the wheels completely fell off last issue with a side story about the return of Black Bolt that lacked heart and featured some really bad art. Issue #7 is the second part to the Black Bolt story if that gives you any indication.

Neither this or the previous issue feature any of the members from the Future Foundation. That could be overlooked if Hickman’s story was the slightest bit entertaining. Much like the previous book, this issue lacks any heart. What’s really sad is that a story about the return of Black Bolt should be a big deal but this lacks any sense of significance. It meanders around without ever drawing me in or keeping me interested.

Perhaps even worse than the story is Greg Tocchini’s art. I really don’t like calling someone’s artwork ugly but everything from the pencils to the colors are flat and unattractive. The action panels are uninspiring and the characters look dull. There’s nothing visually impressive about this issue.

Thank goodness the series gets back on track next issue. This two issue distraction was poorly conceived and features art that was impossible for me to enjoy. I’m ready to get back to the quality “FF” books that got me onboard to begin with.