The rather uninspired story title for this issue's script serves as an unfortunate omen of what's ends up being a disappointing read. DC is mining the popularity of the Identity Crisis crossover event far too much, and it shows in this issue. The plot doesn't always make a lot of sense, and artist Tom Fowler's loose, exaggerated style just doesn't work with the grounded tone for which the writer strives. Despite the script's flaws, Winick does include some strong characterization that serves as the real foundation of the story and draws the reader into the tale despite leaps in logic. This title needs to get a new artist, and the DC Universe as a whole needs to stop defining itself by its previous event comic and its upcoming on in the fall.
Green Arrow and his fellow bow-carrying heroes are dumbstruck when their home is reduced to rubble before their eyes, the work of a powerful bomb. It's clear to Green Arrow that someone has figured out who he, the younger Green Arrow and Speedy are, and he's determined to find out who's responsible. Number One on his list of suspects is Doctor Light, the super-villain he and other members of the Justice League mind-wiped years before. Meanwhile, a new student has begun following Mia, AKA Speedy, around school.
Fowler's distorted depictions of the characters makes it difficult to take them serious. The Flash looks like Art Carney with a coat of red paint rather than a sleek, dynamic hero. Mia's best friend and the girl who's tailing her look far too much alike, and the penciller's portrayal of the super-hero who turns up at the end of the issue makes him look almost feeble rather than poewrful. The one visual highlight of this issue is the cover. Cliff Chiang is showing some real range as an artist here. Though his simple but mature style shows here, there's a look that reminds me of the work of Tony (Ex Machina) Harris.
Someone has figured out who Green Arrow is, so explain to me why the archer's first thought is of Doctor Light. Sure, given recent events and the character's history, he would be on the list if suspects. But what about Brick, Star City's new crimelord, whose criminal endeavors have been opposed by GA and his archer sidekicks? What about other members of Green Arrow's limited rogues gallery? And why can't activist millionaire Oliver Queen be on someone's hitlist? I also didn't buy into Zatanna suspending her life so she can stalk someone through the halls of a high school. For that to work, Winick needs to sell me on a stronger bond of friendship between the title character and the backwards-talking magician.
Ollie's rage over the violent collision of his two lives rings true, and it draws the reader into the story. I think the more powerful moment, though, comes from the normally serene Connor Hawke when he tries to drive home the seriousness of the situation to Mia. He not only gives her a wake-up call, but he convinces the reader of the personally devastating nature of events for the archer family. 5/10
