Batman #108
Publisher: DC
Writer: James Tynion IV
Artist: Jorge Jimenez, Ricardo Lopez Ortiz (back-up story)
Colors: Tomeu Morey
Letters: Clayton Cowles
Cover: Jorge Jimenez & Tomeu Morey
What started in the Future State titles is now being explored and explained in the recent storyline. Tynion is laying out what led to the creation of the Magistrate and we finally meet the man who would become Peacekeeper-01. All of this is masterfully told as Batman is facing several enemies both seen and hidden in the shadows. With Tynion introducing Miracle Molly into the tale she practically steals the show and it’s so hard not to agree with the vision she’s helping to fulfill. The writing is so good here as she and Batman discuss Gotham’s future and the questions she poses. Along with the strong narrative is each dynamic and eye-melting page by Jimenez and Morey. The art they bring to this story was some of the best IN COMICS and made this mostly character driven story just wonderful to look at. From the city details to the design of Miracle Molly that hits a strong contrast with the rest of the panels thanks to Morey’s colors.
The backup story by Tynion with art from Ortiz continues the adventures of Ghostmaker. We get to see how skilled this guy is going up against Madame Midas (love the old school villainess type name) and a cadre of enemies he’s stopped. Now, as someone who was quite skeptical of the character when he first made his debut I’m actually excited to see how things play out with him as much as I’m excited for the main story. You’ll want to add this to your read pile if you’re not reading Batman already! 5/5
Suicide Squad #3
Publisher: DC
Writer: Robbie Thompson
Artist: Eduardo Pansica
Colors: Marcelo Maiolo
Inks: Julio Ferreira
Letters: Wes Abbott
Cover: Eduardo Pansica, Julio Ferreira, & Marcelo Maiolo
Amanda Waller wants a new member for Task Force X and what she wants she gets…or someone’s head goes boom. This time around, Waller sends her team to snatch the Teen Titan known as Bolt. This may sound like a simple snatch and grab but thankfully the creative team gives us much more than that. Thompson’s dialogue is witty, entertaining, and nails each character perfectly. The standout here though is Culebra who provides some humor that doesn’t feel forced. She’s shipping her teammates, throwing jokes towards Waller, and seems to be the more easygoing member of the team. There’s also an intense moment between Peacemaker and Superboy that is probably my favorite comic panel of the week! All of this paired with the visuals from the art team make this another title you’ll want to grab if you’re a fan of the Squad. Even if you’re not and just want to try something new, the creative team makes a good case for you to give this one a shot. 4/5
Eric Snell
esnell@comicattack.net
