The Twelve #6 – Review

By J. Michael Straczynski (Writer), Chris Weston (Pencils and Inks), Garry Leach (Inks), and Chris Chuckry (Colors)

I won’t lie, this series seems to be getting slower and slower. Don’t get me wrong, J. Michael Straczynski’s narrative and characterization are still a cut above the rest, and Chris Weston’s art is still the perfect fit for the tone and theme of this series, but with this issue marking the halfway point of this series, it doesn’t feel like much has happened. While I’ve always said that these twelve people and their respective personalities are what move this story forward, I’m almost ready to break down and admit that I want something to happen already! For being halfway done, there is still no real villain, the mystery of Blue Blade death foreshadowed in the first issue hasn’t been touched upon, and nine out of the twelve characters are still in the same circumstances that they have been in since issue #2.

Despite my complaints, this issue is still somewhat satisfying. This time we get more background stories (including the tragic truth behind Rockman’s origin; if you thought it was sad before, wait until you learn what really happened), and a further exploration of the characters in different situations. We also get a rather big reveal about Black Widow’s character that I never suspected (hint: the reason she does not seem interested in Phantom Reporter may not be what you think)! Likewise, we get to see Dynamic Man placed into a rather awkward situation, the result of which has me slightly confused about his character. Hints in the first issue about certain “tendencies” of his left me expecting an opposite reaction to what he portrayed in this issue. Perhaps the most redeeming part of the story was at the very end where it certainly seemed to imply that we might finally get some of the action that I’ve been itching for.

Like last time, this issue certainly won’t interest any brand new readers, but to anyone who has become a fan of these characters, the interesting developments this time around should hold you over until we finally (maybe) get some action in the next part. (Grade: B-)

-M. Staples

A Second Opinion

I couldn’t disagree with McKenzie more. This issue is incredible in that it finally touches upon some of the more interesting characters and subplots that have been brimming for the last six months. Mr. Dynamic’s ignorant and intolerant personality finally explodes. Black Widow gets a lot more exposure, though she’s still cryptic. Phantom Reporter finds some much needed direction. And Rockman’s tragic past is finally revealed. Seriously, to say there’s nothing happening is ridiculous! I understand where Mr. Staples is coming from in his review, but when dealing with an ensemble cast this large, you can’t expect the story to move so quickly without establishing who these people.

While there may be a lack of any true villainy, I think the story’s actually more compelling by eliminating the classic good versus evil spiel and forcing these people to see that the world isn’t painted in extremes. It’s safe to say that The Twelve (along with time, itself) are their own worst enemies. This is easily one of the best issues of the series thus far. (Grade: A)

– J. Montes