This issue is special for a couple of reasons. First of all, it's a rare standalone story in the midst of a property known for its easily packaged story arcs. Second, it features guest artwork from a wonderfully talented Malaysian artist named Tan Eng Huat, whose mainstream work has been limited to a title with a small audience (Doom Patrol). I'm pleased he's reaching new readers with this effort, but this effort doesn't really offer a good example of the strength of his meticulous line art. For Morrison's part, the story is accessible, but surprisingly sappy.
Apollo, Midnighter and the Engineer share a story of their latest mission with the young Jenny Quantum. They tell her of an alien monster of unimaginable size that was laying waste to the Malaysian city of Kuala Lumpur. Even the full force of Apollo's, the Engineer's and the Doctor's powers seemed unable to stop the creature's rampage. The key to victory lies instead with Swift and her efforts to learn of the creature's origins, and she discovers it's not as alien as they first suspected.
Though John Arcudi's scripts never quite hooked me, I loved Tan Eng Huat's work on the most recent incarnation of Doom Patrol, and I was excited when I heard he'd be bringing his unique and detailed style to bear on this title. Unfortunately, the clean, crisp quality that I loved on DP isn't to be found here. His work here is much more loose, even appearing a bit rushed and lacking definition. The artist's efforts are nevertheless striking, but they aren't up to the level I came to expect from his previous work. Baron's colors sometimes wash out key scenes as well, notably the more grounded, less action-oriented ones.
Morrison does a good job when it comes to letting new readers in on the heroes' powers, and his plot captures the larger-than-life nature of the Authority's activities and the threats they oppose on a routine basis. The story is balanced as well, giving each member of the team a moment in the spotlight.
The story boasts an appropriately dark and tragic ending, but overall, the story takes a rather melodramatic turn that's not in keeping with the property's "big picture" focus and appeal. The sappier tone of the ending just doesn't work with these edgy characters. I understand what Morrison is trying to do here; he's trying to humanize these god-like characters. But that touchy-feely tone makes the Authority seem more like the Justice League, and the point of the property is to bring a harshness to the wonder of super-heroes.
