It's just been solicited for release in February but when I was in New York a few weeks ago I managed to convince Peter Tomasi to pass me a black and white of #1. I was really intrigued by the premise. I also enjoyed Will Pfiefer's work on Finals (a mini-series he and Jill Thompson did for Vertigo) and Kano's pencils are reminiscent of Eduardo Risso.
I'm reviewing H.E.R.O. #1 now because, like Y The Last Man, I'm betting this is going to be under-ordered and, by some of you, over-looked. Now's your chance to reserve a copy.
Let me also add that although the "H-Dial" (a device that turns the bearer into a random super-powered hero) has been in DC lore for years -- you don't need to know anything about its history or the DCU upon reading this issue. Go in fresh.
What's it about?
Watch as a strange device passes hands and transforms normal people of different backgrounds, ages, and beliefs, into super-heroes. And see the highs and lows of its effects on them.
From what I know about the series, each story arc will focus on a different individual coming into contact with the mysterious dial. And as we follow the dial from person to person, so will others with their own motivations.
When I heard the premise and read issue 1 it felt very much like a cross between Grant Morrison's Animal Man and 100 Bullets. Two of my favorite series of all time. The street level and grounded approach and the twist on ones super-hero expectations have immediately grabbed my interest. Everything is laid out beautifully, the pacing is smooth, the characterization incredibly solid and intricate.
I don't want to spoil much here but we open with our lead on a payphone suicide hotline. Why in the hell would someone who was granted super-powers be on a suicide hotline?
Read the book.
I get my DC comics for free, but there are a few titles I buy off the stands. This is definitely going to be one of them.
