Victor Von Doom being emperor of the world in Marvel Comics' One World Under Doom is a major accomplishment and something rarely seen in comic books. Sure, there are alternate realities where Norman Osborn or the Red Skull were president, but Doom did it in the main continuity. What’s more impressive is that he’s made things better for everyone worldwide by giving humanity basic needs. Of course, everything comes with a price.
One World Under Doom creative team
- Writer: Ryan North
- Artist: R.B. Silva
- Colorist: David Curiel
At the end of issue No. 5 of One World Under Doom, Head of S.H.I.E.L.D. Maria Hill told the heroes that she knows why they keep losing, and it’s because Doom is hiding something big. The problem is getting proof. The only place to get it is in Latveria, and Doom has had it blocked off for months. In order to get into the country, they needed Victor distracted. The best way to do that is to have him engage his nemesis, Reed Richards.
In issue No. 6, while Mr. Fantastic and Doctor Doom debate Emperor Victor’s capability to rule the world, the heroes find a way into Latveria. While there, Wanda Maximoff, Black Widow, and Sue Storm learn something horrific: Hidden inside a giant, magical structure in Latveria is a terrible secret. Doom is harvesting the souls, lifetimes, and futures of millions of people to protect the world.
When Reed gets the information on what Doom is doing, he tells Victor what he has learned. Doom deflects and claims that these were loyal volunteers. Reed points out that some of the people suffering were children and that he robbed them of their lives. Doom lashes out at Mister Fantastic, ripping at his old friend's face, and telling him that the means are justified. But Reed isn't buying it, telling him: “ If these horrors are so justified, then why, Victor, do you hide them?”. Doom then realizes this is being broadcast to the world and has the feed cut.
There’s always been a debate on whether Doctor Doom is the true villain or not. We consistently see that he does what’s necessary, but rarely does he hurt innocent people. At least not Latverians. He is a monster and a dictator, but his country's people were normally exempt from his atrocities. Having him go this far shows that he truly is evil. However, as someone pointed out to me, this is just like the trolley problem. Is the suffering of millions worth the happiness of billions? I won't judge either way, but Victor Von Doom has finally revealed his true self.
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