A month ago, the Associated Press ran a story about how DC Comics had published a comic book revealing that a super-hero's sidekick was HIV positive, about what a landmark it was and what prompted writer Judd Winick to tell the story. DC made a big deal about, as well they should have, but they did so too early. Green Arrow #43 contained the revelation, but it's this issue that really explores what it means in terms of facts and emotional impact. This is the most important comic book Wininck has written since Pedro and Me, and it stands out as one of the strongest issues in his run on this title.
Oliver Queen accompanies his ward, Mia, to a medical appointment, and he learns that she's been diagnosed as being HIV positive. Though saddened, Mia says this development was not unforseen, given the life she once led as a prostitute and junkie on the street. Mia is strong, and she's ready to take on the strict drug regimen required to keep her healthy. Oliver tells his son and himself that everything seems to be under control, but Connor sees a much different story unfolding. Meanwhile, a contact in the police department informs the younger Green Arrow of the city's plans on how to deal with Star City's powerful new crimelord, Brick.
It should come as no surprise that Hester and Parks do another fantastic job with the art here. They convey Mia's youth and sorrow incredibly clearly, just as they communicate the title character's discomfort and confusion over Mia's condition. The inky quality of the art suits the story, as it gives the dark cloud looming over the characters substance.
My favorite visual element here, though, is the cover. The design is quite striking, and it's unlike any cover that's graced this title in the past four years. Marcos Martin's art here reminds me of more grounded style of such artists as Daniel (Ghost World) Clowes and Jaime (Love and Rockets) Hernandez. Martin sums up the core message of this script perfectly by showing how isolated Mia feels as a result of her diagnosis. She's always felt different, felt removed, from those around her due to her past, but now, those feelings have been amplified a thousandfold.
HIV isn't in vogue anymore. We used to talk about it all the time. PSAs about the truth about HIV and AIDS once dominated the airwaves. Perhaps it's a sign that we're more enlightened about the disease, that we don't need to hear about it so much anymore. But that's not the case. I learned new things about the treatment here, about the side effects of the motley arrangement of drugs HIV patients take. Winick includes a mention of how not all are lucky enough to have all of the medical coverage they need. And most importantly, he reminds us of the emotional impact it has on the patient and those around them. Winick's script doesn't get preachy -- a wise move -- and it boasts a genuine tone that allows the reader to connect more strongly with the characters. 9/10
