When one thinks of Matt Wagner, one thinks of such comic properties as Grendel and Mage, but this summer, this unconventional creator turns his attention to three of pop culture's best recognized icons: Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman. Continuity fanatics might not be enthused by the plot, which ignores some post-Crisis elements (most of which involve Wonder Woman) and seems to introduce a new villain. One shouldn't get too hung up on continuity, though, as there's a fun and moody story to be enjoyed here.
An organization known as the Purge, led by one of the world's most devious and resourceful villains, is collecting weapons, and at the top of its shopping list is a humanoid powerhouse, a tycoon's dirty little secret. The Purge's leader is aided in his quest by a mysterious and angry young woman of remarkable skill and strength. Together, they represent untold danger and power, and they'll cause a trio of young heroes more trouble than they might be able to handle.
At first glance, Wagner's linework is simple, capturing the archetypical nature of the title characters quite well. His depiction of the characters puts me in mind of the work of Frank Miller and Howard Chaykin. But beyond the towering figures of the story lies some wonderful work with perspective. Wagner brings the sleekness and affluence of Metropolis to life. There's a dynamic flair to the slender buildings reaching for the heavens and the rails that rush in between them. The visuals on this book are stunning.
I had the opportunity to preview this book in a black-and-white preview form, and the artwork was quite impressive. But Dave Stewart's colors bring a level of depth and atmosphere I couldn't have imagined. There's just no comparison. Stewart's meticulous coloring job adds texture and energy that are mesmerizing. I think Trinity will be the book that gets Stewart mentioned in the company of such talents as Matt Hollingsworth and Laura Martin.
Wagner balances the simplicity of the super-hero storytelling of yesteryear with a sharp, clever quality in the dialogue and narration. The writer/artist employs the parallel structure of the classic team-up tale -- for every hero, there must be a corresponding villain -- but he also focuses on how the title characters react to one another. On the surface, this first issue is about establishing the players and plot, but in reality, it's really about how Superman views two radically different colleagues. He pities the Dark Knight, while his new Amazonian friend instills a measure of awe and fascination. He has more in common with Bruce Wayne -- human upbringing and a sense of isolation and loss -- but he feels more of a kinship with Diana within minutes of meeting.
Trinity captures both the fun of Silver Age super-hero storytelling and an epic feel, while still taking the time to focus on the characters even more than the larger-than-life action. More importantly, Wagner really taps into the characters' iconic status, but at the same time, he portrays them as human, as down-to-earth figures to whom the reader can relate.
Note: Some of the comments in this review were reproduced from a previous feature on the website.
