Andi Watson's script does exactly what it should do: it brings the formerly haughty and alien figure of the Sub-Mariner down to earth, transforming him into a figure to whom the reader can relate. Of course, this will come as no surprise to those of us who have read and enjoyed Watson's slice-of-life storytelling -- such as Breakfast After Noon and Slow News Day -- in the past. The art is strong as well. The problem here is that the book is rather thin on plot, and what we do get ventures into territory that's not just familiar, but a bit tired as well.
Quick thinking on the part of Namor and his friend Bobo prevent tragedy at the teeth of a shark, and while the other members of the Trident Team are berated, Namor and pal are lauded for their efforts. The incident exacerbates tension betwee Namor and his colleagues, who focus on his racial differences rather than his ability. Speaking of racial differences, Namor once again ventures to the surface and encounters Sandy, the young girl with whom he frolicked years ago when they were small children. Neither is so small anymore, and the connection they share deepens.
Larroca's artwork reminds me of the styles of George (JLA/Avengers) Perez and Carlos (JLA/JSA: Virtue and Vice) Pacheco. This is as strong as Larroca's work has ever been, as Danny Miki's inks bring a crisp level of definition. The colors are also stunning. I especially loved the scene toward the end of the issue in which a sunset seems to set the ocean on fire, mirroring the slowly growing emotional flame that burns between the title character and his human love interest.
Lovers from different worlds are drawn together, but their differences are bound to get in the way of their relationship... it's an all-too familiar plot synopsis, and I don't think it's the first time it's even graced the pages of a Namor story. It seems so obvious that hooking up with a land-dweller is a bad idea, Namor even comes off as rather dim. Furthermore, we really don't know why it is he's so fascinated by the surface world. He seems to delight in his role in Atlantis. There's no indication as to why he might want to run away from his home.
Watson maintains a key balance between the exotic world from which Namor comes and a more grounded tone in the dialogue that allows the reader to relate to that strange society. I'm also impressed that he doesn't dwell on the historical setting, but he doesn't disregard it either. I would like to see more historical elements work their way into this story, but not to the point that they eclipse the more character-driven tone.
