Hulk #5

Previously, in Hulk #4 

The similarities between Jennifer and her client Maise have become more apparent in each issue of the “Deconstructed” arc. Here, in part five, their experiences are painfully similar as we get a look at what it was like for Jennifer when she first awoke from her coma. Like Maise, Jennifer missed parts of her life after a violent attack. When they awoke, they found the world (and themselves) completely different. While Maise mourned the loss of a partnership and friendship that wasn’t as she thought, Jennifer mourned the death of her cousin, Bruce Banner. There are panels in which hospitalized Jennifer even looks like Maise.

Their approaches to re-entering society is where the similarities end. Jennifer threw herself into her work, repeating to herself over and over again that she was okay. She wasn’t okay. Maise shut herself in her apartment, but reassurances that everything would be okay didn’t come from within, but from a mysterious (and most likely malicious) being that lurked in the shadows.

This being seems to feed on the fears of the tenants, all different and all fearful of the outside world. It promises them safety and removes anyone who threatens their haven - like the slumlord Tick, and like Jennifer, who cannot keep Maise from being evicted.

The entire building is covered in vines and whatever this entity is takes the form of creatures, protectors, who back up each each tenant. With the police forcing their way inside and the tenants determined to defend their home at all costs, Jennifer loses her tenuous hold on control. What isn’t clear is whether or not Jennifer is under the influence of the being that is controlling Maise.

I’m beyond excited to get our first look at Jennifer’s Hulk in this new series, and to see how her recent experiences may shape the Hulk she’ll be.