DMZ #56 – Review

by Brian Wood (writer), Nathan Fox (art), Jeromy Cox (colors), and Jared K. Fletcher (letters)

The Story: Wilson faces the destruction Chinatown and is faced with a hard choice.

What’s Good: Wilson has long been a favourite character of mine in Brian Wood’s DMZ, and I doubt that I’m the only one.  The character is a perfect balance of unassuming and intimidating.  Thus, the fact that this is a one-shot centered on Wilson already puts this issue in my good books.

Certainly, this is a strong outing for Wood.  The tone is brooding and heavy, while also fatigued and worn out.  There’s a constant sense of Wilson’s burden, as the story has a crushing, unrelenting sort of weight and pressure to it.  Some might say that this issue is slow-moving or ponderous, or that not enough happens, but I’m inclined to say that that’s the point.  It creates a despairing atmosphere of doom and “heavy lies the crown,” which is far more effective than a running gunfight could ever be.

The plot, centered around Wilson’s precarious position in the war’s current state, is also solid and it’s refreshing to see a one-shot like this be so in line with the series’ current continuity.  The hard choice Wilson is faced with is a great touch by Wood; it painfully defines Wilson’s position in Chinatown, not just for us, but for the character himself.  Essentially, he is forced to choose between the actual responsibilities that his leadership position entails and the pride and ego that not only arises because of that position, but are fundamental parts of it.  It’s a crushing, though elegant, conflict of doing what a leader should do versus being what a leader should be, and the extent to which these two things are the same, yet different.  Suffice it to say, the climax of this all is touching, powerful, and, as is suited for Wilson, both grandiose and resigned.

Superman #682 – Review

By James Robinson (writer), Renato Guedes (pencils), Wilson Magalhaes (inks), David Curiel (colors)

The Story: The newly arrived Kryptonians are becoming a major problem. Though they’ve been ordered to aid Superman by capturing villains from the American prison system, the altercations they get into by doing so leaves many humans dead (or murdered if you want to look at it that way). The sad part about all this is the arrogance and apathetic nature of the Kryptonians.

You’d think after being held in captivity for so long they’d grow to appreciate the lives of others. Here, it seems to not be the case. Despite their best intentions, Superman’s “people” are doing more harm than good.

The Good? The dilemma Superman faces with the Kryptonians is escalating a brisk pace. To be honest, I was expecting a slow simmer, but James Robinson is wasting no time putting forth the threat of these aliens. Also, I’m happy to see that while the Science Police are still fodder, their pressence continues to be a part of this book. The reappearance of Atlas and The Guardian also shed some light on where things may be headed in Metropolis. For $2.99 you’re getting more than your money’s worth with this densely packed, and entertaining story. The art is equally as good.

The Not So Good? Some may complain that too much is going on at once, but that’s how it’s supposed to be. This is a chaotic situation that’s quickly spiraling out of control.

Conclusion: Superman under the hands of James Robinson and Renato Guedes continues to be a stellar title. Get on board before you’re left behind!

Grade: A