⭐ Starbrand and Nightmask #5 – Cosmic Weightlifting and Universal Worth
đ Genre
Superhero, Cosmic Sci-Fi, Coming-of-Age
đ Main Characters
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Adam Blackveil / Starbrand – A student with godlike power granted by the cosmic Starbrand sigil, struggling to live a normal life while bearing a universal burden.
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Kevin Connor / Nightmask – A synthetic human created by the universe with a vast understanding of the cosmos, navigating human experiences with a logical mind and loyal heart.
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Libra – A cosmic entity with an obsession for balance, acting as a universal arbiter of value and significance.
✍️ Writer
Greg Weisman – Known for his sharp dialogue and layered character development, Weisman brings emotional realism to even the most cosmic corners of the Marvel Universe.
đš Artist
Dominike “Domo” Stanton – Infuses dynamic action and expressive character work into every page, blending the mundane with the extraordinary through stylized line work and energy-charged panels.
đ Editor Details
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Editor: Jon Moisan
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Senior Editor: Wil Moss
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Executive Editor: Tom Brevoort
đą Publisher and Brand
Marvel Comics
Imprint: Marvel Universe
đ Release Year
2016
đ Brief Plot Summary
College life isn’t easy—especially when you're wielding the power of the cosmos! In Starbrand and Nightmask #5, Adam and Kevin try to decompress from their celestial responsibilities with a workout at the campus gym. But their moment of peace is shattered when they encounter Libra, a cosmic figure who deems it necessary to weigh their existential significance on a galactic scale. With Eternity hanging in the balance, the duo must prove their worth not just as students, but as defenders of cosmic order.
đ Notable Arcs or Storylines
This issue is part of the Starbrand and Nightmask (2015–2016) limited series, a post-Secret Wars continuation focusing on two of Marvel’s most enigmatic cosmic characters as they attempt to live a double life as college freshmen and universe-level guardians. It explores the balance between human identity and cosmic purpose.
đ Fan Theories or Interpretations
Some fans speculate that Libra's role in this issue hints at multiversal judgment, potentially tying into broader Marvel events involving cosmic entities like the Living Tribunal or Eternity. Others believe Starbrand’s arc symbolizes the modern tension between youthful potential and societal expectation—especially in an age of overwhelming responsibilities.
đ§ Review Summary
Starbrand and Nightmask #5 walks the fine line between light-hearted campus hijinks and high-concept cosmic philosophy. The banter between Adam and Kevin is heartfelt and human, grounding the celestial stakes in genuine emotional tension. Greg Weisman’s writing shines through his balance of humor and introspection, while Domo Stanton’s art captures the energetic chaos of both gym class and interdimensional confrontations.
✨ Final Verdict: A fun and thoughtful issue that asks big questions with a smile, giving cosmic Marvel fans a refreshing dose of heart and heroism.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
