Review: Hawkman #22
[Editor’s Note: This review may contain spoilers]
Writer: Robert Venditti
Art: Fernando Pasarin, Oclair Albert & Wade Von Grawbadger
Colors: Jeromy Cox
Letters: Rob Leigh
Reviewed by: Matthew B. Lloyd
Summary
The mystery of The Key deepens as Sky Tyrant threatens to reveal Carter’s secrets to Shayera. However, Carter Hall finally makes a breakthrough in the virus that is holding him captive in his own brain.
Positives
Hawman #22 delivers the same elements that have made it DC’s best ongoing title since its first issue. But, it’s not simply following a formula, it’s great writing and great art! Fans have been waiting for Carter and Shayera to meet for the nearly two years of this current Hawkman title. This arc not only delivers that, but Hawkman #22 introduces Shayera to the concept of reincarnating over space and time. While brief, it’s a fantastic double page spread by Fernando Pasarin that should keep readers trying to identify the numerous versions of Hawkgirl/Hawkwoman from throughout space and time. See if you can match up the iterations in the similar spread of Hawkman’s past lives from Hawkman #1!
The teaming of Adam Strange, the Atom and Hawkwoman is fun, nostalgic and interesting in terms of character. This issue is mostly about Hawkwoman seeking the truth about her own past, but there’s just enough with Adam and the Atom as well to remind readers how enjoyable it is to see these characters together. Despite their peril, it’s still fun and a bit heartwarming to see these characters working together to save Carter. Plus, there’s a clever use of the reincarnation motif as Adam Strange tells Shayera that famous Rannian archaeologist Katarthul is his hero.
Without giving it away, the reveal of The Key takes the potential consequences to another level. It also fits right in with the theme of this entire run. Venditti always does a great job of upping the ante, and this is yet another example.
Negatives
It’s hard to say there’s a negative, I’ll just note that I’ll be disappointed if Carter and Shayera end up in an antagonistic relationship after this issue. I can only liken it to the moment in Venditti’s run on Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps when Soranik Natu felt betrayed by Kyle Rayner and ended the detente with the Green Lantern Corps. I don’t expect them to fall madly back in each others arms, but I hope they are not portrayed at sixes and sevens.
Verdict
Well? What did you expect? Hawkman #22 is another great issue by Venditti and Pasarin! Don’t delay get your issue of Hawkman today! There’s a nice emotional element that will surely be developed for Shayera and the camaraderie between these characters is delectable! The overall theme of redemption that has been central to this run on Hawkman is both interesting and meaningful! It demonstrates Venditti’s strength as a writer, allowing character to drive the story.
