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Quick Critiques for 2/16/2005
There's no way that Randy and I can cover all of the material we have for review in full reviews, so these capsule reviews will offer some brief comments on other recent releases.
BIRDS OF PREY #79
by Gail Simone & Ed Benes (DC Comics)
 A while back, Gail Simone took DC's Rose & Thorn concept and breathed new life into it with a sharper, darker edge in a six-issue limited series. Her take on Thorn returns here, and I'm impressed at how Simone introduces readers who may be unfamiliar with the character without writing an entire issue about the character's origin and psychological affliction. The story is accessible and exciting, but it's th character-driven stuff focusing on the title characters that's the strongest aspect of the book. Canary's fiercely protective feelings about her teammates rings true, and I love how she asserts her status as a veteran hero who's the Batman's equal. Most enjoyable is seeing the Huntress transform from an angry girl to a young woman who's managed to find happiness and purpose. Simone suggests that the Batman screwed up with her big-time, that what she needed was acceptance, respect and trust to guide her down the right path. Benes's gratuitous cover is indicative of the sort of art he provided early on in his stint on this title. Fortunately, he's no longer as obvious about things when it comes to the interior art. Thrusting poses are not the norm within; he just needs to tone that down when it comes to the cover because he's creating the impression this book is about cheesecake as opposed to characterization. 7/10
INVADERS #7
by Allan Jacobsen & C.P. Smith (Marvel Comics)
 This issue marks the beginning of a new story arc -- "Cruel and Unusual" -- and it's certainly an aptly titled story. Jacobsen explores the Thin Man, what motivates him and what sets him apart from other costumed characters in the Marvel Universe. His burning hatred and willingness to use any methods to get what he wants preclude the label of "hero." Jacobsen comes up with a novel method of torture: death and forcer resurrection, mather, rinse repeat. While the writer delivers a fascinating character study in his examination of the Thin Man, he fails to offer another important element: a clear plot. These characters haven't really accomplished much of anything since the series began. They're after the same villains and getting nowhere fast. C.P. Smith's stiff figures remains frustrating. I appreciate the more grounded, military look of the heroes' costumes, but their awkward movements make it difficult to follow the action. Colorist Chris Walker seems to be trying to foster a dark, mature mood with his work here, but instead, the colors range from looking overdone to crude. There's potential in Jacobsen's Invaders concept, but he and the other creators have failed to capitalize on it. 5/10
SPECTACULAR SPIDER-MAN #25
by Samm Barnes, Scot Eaton & Cam Smith
(Marvel Comics)
 And with this third issue in the "Sins Remembered: Sarah's Story" arc, it goes completely off the rails. The plotting here is so scattered and implausible that it's almost laughable. The title character seemingly ignores the fact that the woman he's trying to help has admitted to him she's an active criminal and drug dealer. The artificial tension between Peter and Mary Jane flies in the face of the strengthening of their relationship over the past couple of years in the various Spider-titles, and Scot Eaton's usually realistic and polished style is difficult to discern here, with a more cartoony and exaggerated tone eclipsing it. This is the worst Spider-Man story to come along in some time. 1/10
TEEN TITANS #21
by Geoff Johns, Mike McKone & Marlo Alquiza
(DC Comics)
 Johns follows up on the events of Identity Crisis here with a newly focsed and murderously angry Dr. Light targeting the Teen Titans for the sins committed against him by the Justice League. Johns does a great job of establishing a creepy atmosphere here, and he even comes up with a decent explanation as to why the Titans alone would respond to the crisis as opposed to the legion of other heroes that were wrapped up in IC. Johns even does a good job of explaining Light's history, right up to IC, providing plenty of exposition seamlessly for readers who may not be as familiar with the villain. Where the issue goes a bit awry for me is how quickly the new Speedy is welcomed into the fold. Her nerves as played well, but this whole notion that Speedy's name and her status as a teen sidekick automatically earns her a place among the Titans just doesn't seem right. McKone does a great job of conveying how isolated and lost Speedy feels at Titans Tower, and he conveys the malevolence and power of Dr. Light clearly as well. 7/10
TRIGGER #3
by Jason Hall & John Watkiss
(DC Comics/Vertigo imprint)
 The plot becomes even more clear as a corporate conspiracy to cover up murder and more comes into focus. I love the investigative reporter character here; I identify with her outrage and ambition so well. Her personal reasons for getting involved in the drama are compelling, but Hall doesn't sugar-coat it either. Her discussion with her brother is full of venom; there's loyalty there, but not love. I love the pervading influence that Ethicorp is demonstrated to have on every aspect of life. A private electronic conversation is censored, and it would seem that even one's dreams are subject to the corporation's all-knowing moral sense. Watkiss's art brings a deliciously noir feel to the Orwellian setting and circumstances. There's definitely a science-fiction feel that's dominant, but there are enough elements -- clothing, for example -- that make it easy for the reader to connect with the over-the-top story. The cue is clear: this is not that far removed from what's going on in Halliburton's America right now. 9/10
Email Don MacPherson with your comments about this review.
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