[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers.]
Writer: Kyle Higgins
Artists: Trevor McCarthy, Dean White
Covers: Trevor McCarthy
Summary
After last issue’s daunting cliffhanger, Higgins continues the story with Dick Grayson having to make a very tough decision.
Positives
This was a very fun and interesting story to read. Not only do we witness Dick Grayson’s life being torn between duty and family, but we get a rather interesting flashback as to what happened to the world, and more specifically, super powers. I absolutely loved the flashback. Not only does it give us a glimpse as to what happened, but rather how realistic it was in the sense that it could actually happen in the world of comics.
During the flashback, we see the identity of Dick’s wife. Higgins could have taken a different angle with this, as it is an alternate story and not privy to the current mainstream comics. That being said however, I agree with his choice of the character, as it does make sense, and probably has a lot more of an impact with this story and the demise of all super powered beings in this world.
More often then not, comics don’t really focus on the character behind the mask. It’s more about their powers and saving the day. This story is much more about Dick Grayson then Nightwing, which I really like. A story about a man who must protect, or convict, his son against the very organization he’s built. It may not be original, as I’m sure movies or other books have tackled this concept before, but it doesn’t make it any less interesting, especially for Dick Grayson, whose never had a son, or been responsible for saving the world against super powered beings.
Probably the best part of this story is the chemistry between Dick, his son Jake, and Alfred. The friction between Dick and Alfred is absolutely genuine, and in no way feels forced or faked in some way. Same can be said for Jake’s love and respect for his father, and well as for Alfred. Great writing by Higgins all around.
McCarthy and White’s art on this issue is very good as well. The colors aren’t as vibrant and bright as other books, but the rather grey and old feel to it works for this story. The facial expressions, which do look rather square from time to time, show a lot of emotion and clarity.
Negatives
No negatives to mention.
Verdict
A really great continuation from the first issue, and setting up a very interesting issue # 3.
