I was really looking forward to this unconventional one-shot from DC Comics. Not only did it place one of the publishers best supporting characters in the spotlight, but it's written and illustrated by one of the most unique and consistently entertaining creators in the industry today: Scott Morse, the man responsible for several of 2003's best graphic novels. The good news is that his painted artwork is as strong and charming as ever. The bad news is that the plot here isn't nearly as engrossing or promising as it sets out to be at first. Nevertheless, even lesser Morse works make for a good read. This will do doubt be a must-read for his fans, and it will hopefully expose a wider audience to his unusual but effective storytelling style.
Retired Gotham police commissioner Jim Gordon heads to a small coastal inn for some much needed rest and relaxtion, not to mention the fast pace of life in the city. Old instincts kick into high gear, though, when another guest at the inn turns up dead. Gordon picks up the trailer of the person responsible, but he soon discovers he has some help... a seemingly familiar figure in a dark cape and cowl.
I love how Morse uses unusual mixes of soft, pastel colors to achieve an eerie atmosphere in a story. They bring an unsettling, tense mood to this book. Morse manages to achieve a nice balance in his depiction of Jim Gordon as well. His age and wisdom shine through, but there's strength and energy to the character as well. Morse never fails to surprise me with action sequences. His quirky, cute style is surprisingly effective at conveying fast-paced action sequences as well.
The setup for the story in the first act leads the reader to believe he or she is in store for a gripping whodunnit, with Jim Gordon in the role of the Hercule Poirot type. The mystery riff is quickly abandoned, though, as the story shifts in focus from one of murder to one of hero worship. The shift is a jarring one. Morse has two plotlines on his hands here, and either one could have worked well. There seems to be some creative indecision plaguing this book.
What the book does demonstrate, though, is that Jim Gordon is a rich character full of potential. Gordon comes off as a quiet but content guy who just wants to be left alone, but one who knows when to take charge of a situation. The peripheral characters come to life thanks to some strong dialogue as well.
