Review: Nightwing #123
[Editor’s Note: This review may contain spoilers]
Writer: Dan Watters
Art: Dexter Soy
Colors: Veronica Gandini
Letters: Wes Abbott
Reviewed by: Matthew B. Lloyd
Summary
Nightwing gets an alert from the Flyboiz and learns that things are much worse and weirder than he could’ve ever imagined!
Positives
Dan Watters takes things in a completely unexpected direction as Nightwing learns from one of the Flyboiz (Flygirlz?) that this gang is the victim of genetic experiments with flies that have imbued them with some truly hellish cravings. It’s a crucial moment for Nigthwing as he has already made some headway with the Teddies and now at least one of the Flyboiz is looking for help. The plot also moves forward as the connection between Spheric Solutions and the Flyboiz is made clear.
The impetus for Mayor Grayson-Lin to go in deeper with Spheric is increased due to criticism by a political rival. This brings Dick and Melinda closer to a showdown. In Tom Taylor’s run, Dick and Melinda were able to work together. Watters is teasing that the two will come into conflict in short order. At this point it’s not clear exactly how Melinda sees the entire situation, but it’s an effective plot line.
There’s some fun comic book action when Nightwing is attacked at the Flyboiz hideout to which he’s been summoned. It’s a well placed segment and the comic book-y elements are appreciated, not everything has to be completely grounded. Watters also calls back to the Chemo event in Bludhaven back during Infinite Crisis. Watters also keeps the relationship between Dick and Barbara Gordon as a significant part of their characters. Along with the reference to taking down Blockbuster’s drug trade in the city, it helps build the continuity between this run and Taylor’s and with the Chemo reference to Nightwing’s history in the greater DC Universe.
Negatives
Nothing stands out specifically negative for Nightwing #123. Watters is challenging the reader in some ways, but he does not cross a line that calls into question Dick’s morality, rather he successfully demonstrates how difficult some situations can be.
Verdict
Nightwing #123 is almost quietly going along telling a really good story with interesting and compelling use of the characters. The details of the plot elements make this a very personal conflict for Nightwing. Will he end up in conflict with Melinda? Will he find a satisfying solution for the kids in these gangs- kids who didn’t have the benefit of a millionaire adoptive father? Plus, he’s got a personal connection to Olivia Pearce head of Spheric Solutions…. This is good stuff without having to be universe or continuity altering stakes.
