Superman #38
Publisher: DC Comic
Writer: Peter J. Tomasi & Patrick Gleason
Artist: Sergio Davila
Colorist: Gabe Eltaeb
Cover: Jonboy Meyers
A divided team of Teen Titans, Superman, The Titans of Tomorrow, and Tim Drake now calling himself “Savior” are on the hunt for Damian and Jon in the latest chapter in the Super Sons of Tomorrow crossover. But in true Damian fashion he doesn’t make things easy and they prove that this diminutive duo are NOT to be slept on as they face off against the group of Teen Titans who are actually on their side.
For those following this crossover, this issue is another great chapter in the series even though things wrap up a little too nicely in the end. It’s the build towards the finale where the story shines and there’s a nice balance of heart and action along the way. Whatever you think of Damian there’s no doubt that he’s a ride or die friend to Jon Kent and will do whatever it takes to protect him which is a nice twist considering how powerful the son of Superman is. The visuals are on point as Davila captures every emotion necessary to move the narrative along in striking detail. The first action sequence jumps out at you with the action taking place and the panel layouts as well. When Jon sees his father trapped and helpless we get a great Dragonball Z power-up moment from Jon that looks even better thanks to Gabe Eltaeb’s colors.
As I said earlier, the story does wrap a bit too nicely and even Tim’s moment was lost on me as it seemed to go against the strength of his convictions in pt 3. Though in all fairness Tim Drake is trash to me so my own personal bias is probably at play here too. All in all this was worth picking up if you’ve been reading the crossover but if not you’ll want to catch up first. 3/5
Deathstroke #27
Writer: Christopher Priest
Artist: Diongenes Neves
Colorist: Jeremy Cox
Cover: Ryan Sook
Deathstroke continues to be one of the best titles coming out of DC thanks to Christopher Priest and it’s issues like this that prove why. Terra gets the spotlight in this issue and in just a few pages he acclimates those who might be newer fans to the character in a way that doesn’t feel clunky and boring. If you’re already caught up with your history on Terra there’s enough here from Priest that will still feel fresh and new. Though the controversial relationship stuff from that classic The Judas Contract storyline still feels a bit weird. The father/son dynamic between Slade and John still brings some tense moments right before we get into the action. And Willow pulling out a burger in the middle of a fight not only gives a legitimate reason for bags and pouches but adds a layer of kick ass to the character during a high energy fight scene. The bathroom scene also brings some levity to the story and ended up being one of my favorite moments.
Neves’ artwork on Deathstroke continues to impress and stay consistently strong page after page. Also, Cox’s colors keep the art, tone, and story moving right along with Priest’s great pacing. It was also good seeing Slade’s old costume complete with buccaneer boots, outside underwear, and plenty of pouches.
If you’re looking for a series to dive into then Deathstroke is the one. 4/5
Batman #38
Writer: Tom King
Artist: Travis Moore
Colorist: Clayton Cowles
Cover: Tim Sale & Dave Stewart
I guess Tom King decided that after the fun we had in the previous issue that it was time to get really dark. So here we are as Bruce Wayne reaches out to a child who has suffered a similar tragedy as him. Not only this but as Batman he’s attempting to solve a slew of grisly murders taking place that point to some of his rogues gallery but something just doesn’t feel right as the investigation progresses. This is the type of crime drama that when executed well stands out just as much as the superhero action in this title. King keeps it slow and methodical as Moore’s artwork maintains the tone and hits every emotional beat needed to keep things moving. This is a done-in-one story that wraps up quite well and King’s dialogue in those last three panels brings it all home. 3/5
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