DC’s New 52 Round-up: Issue 4, week 1

In September and October, we took it upon ourselves to review all first issues in DC Comics’ reboot of their entire comic line. The New 52, as these reboot comics are called, present fans new and old with fifty-two new first issues. A fresh start for fans of DC’s stories and heroes, and a place to start for those—like myself—wanting to get into comics but having no idea where to start.

Our first issue reviews turned out to be a bigger project than we anticipated, and reviewing them all took us well past the release of most second issues. We had initially planned to review those second issues of the comics we enjoyed, but decided to hold off on that for a while. Now, finally, we are back with more from DC’s New 52.

On Wednesday, December 7, the first batch of thirteen fourth issues was released. Every week, I’ll be looking at the first four issues of most of these. In our first issue reviews, we asked ourselves a question: “Will I buy the second issue of this comic?” In most cases, the answer is either yes or maybe. However, in a few rare cases, we decided not to read the second issue. Those comics will be excluded from these round-ups. That means that, for this first week, I’m not looking at Men of War. You can still read our review of the first issue here, though.

Without further ado, here is my round-up of the first thirteen fourth issues of DC’s New 52:

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			Action Comics
			What James said after the first issue DC is shaking things up a little bit in this reboot. Superman seems to have less of a tortured soul feel and more of a devil-may-care attitude. He’s also not dating Lois Lane, who now works for a rival newspaper. Superman still has his sense of duty to the world, though—his need to make the world a better place, starting with Metropolis. Superman seems to be a fugitive in the world rather than its savior. It’s something that I definitely find interesting and I want to see how the storyline develops. This is an amazing story and I love that it’s simple enough for new readers to understand. . What I think after issue four From the action-packed first issue onward, Action Comics develops into an interesting read. While there are definitely changes, this comic revisits the Superman of old, introducing the character and his Kryptonian past all over again. The many different story elements, like Metropolis’s corruption, threats from outer space, Lex Luthor proving himself the perfect arch-nemesis, and a whole new dynamic between Clark Kent and Lois Lane make this an interesting comic. The beautiful art definitely adds to that. However, the fragmented way all these story lines are utilized definitely detracts from the actual story, making it hard to follow at times.
			Read James’s review of the first issue here.
			Animal Man
			What I said after the first issue This is nothing like the abstract and bloody cover, but it is almost sappy and cheesy instead. However, there is a dark edge to the story. It’s bloody, it’s creepy, and it’s mysterious. Suddenly, the art changes entirely, from the happy, cosy family scenes to the darkness of nightmares. Those two things, the happiness and the dark edge, combine in Animal Man. I’m intrigued by this interesting mixed atmosphere and look forward to finding out where the story goes from here. . What I think after issue four Animal Man has developed from a sappy family story to a creepy zombie story brimful of action. The happy situation presented in the first issue has laid the perfect foundation for a dark story in which the reader has no choice but to feel compassion for the characters. The normal, everyday parts of Animal Man’s life are an asset to this comic, especially when it turns out his daughter is the real superhero of this story. The big downside for me, however, is the art, which has become increasingly abstract, simplistic, and brutal since the first issue. Still, this is definitely an intriguing story.
			Read my review of the first issue here.
			Batwing
			What I said after the first issue In many ways, Batwing is just like any American superhero. The big difference with other comics is that it takes place in a corrupted and violent African city. This gives Batwing a very different atmosphere than any other comic I’ve reviewed so far. It is detailed and realistic, but with a darker edge. In ways, it also seems dusty and uncivilized, dramatic and intense, much like a city in the Congo looks in my mind’s eye. The best part of this comic, however, is the story. It introduces the villain through a flashback, and then introduces both Batwing and his alter-ego in believable ways without detracting from the action and mystery. . What I think after issue four Batwing is one of the best comics I’ve ever read. It has everything, from a great story to intriguing mystery, with an engrossing dark edge as well. In fact, I am convinced that if Christopher Nolan decided to pick up film rights for Batwing after finishing The Dark Knight Rises, it could be as big a success as his Batman trilogy. However, it will bring something new as well, for Batwing comes with a rich backstory of child soldiers, corruption, and retired superheroes with a dark past. After four issues, I feel the true potential of Batwing has only barely been hinted at, and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
			Read my review of the first issue here.
			Detective Comics
			What I said after the first issue Detective Comics is gritty and violent. It’s detailed and intriguing. It’s intense. This is a story of Batman trying to track the Joker down, but even more about the Joker and his next scheme. The darkness and intelligence of it reminded me of the amazing film The Dark Knight. There’s an interesting balance in the art of Detective Comics. I’ve already established that it’s gritty and violent, but it is also stylish. Some of the frames seem to take us back to the Gotham of 1939 when Batman was first introduced, while others represent a more modern Batman. Bring the second issue on! I’m psyched and shocked, and I want to know more! . What I think after issue four There’s something interesting about Detective Comics. It isn’t the detailed art or the darkness of it, nor is it the huge amount of action or the intensity of the story. No, it is instead the intelligence of the story. Or rather, the hints thereof, because so far, the story has been exceptionally straightforward. On the surface, it’s just been a story of some bad guys capturing Batman, and Batman then fighting his way out. But when looking a little deeper, there seems to be a lot more to it. How could The Joker just disappear in the first issue and not show up again? What’s the deal with all this corruption and who can be trusted, anyway? Who are the real masters behind the villains? These are just some of the questions that make Detective Comics an interesting read after the shock and violence from the first issue subsided.
			Read my review of the first issue here.
			Green Arrow
			What James said after the first issue This introduction makes things sound like he’s a little bit like Batman—a billionaire who owns his own company and uses his resources to take out bad guys—but, I get a sense of fun from Green Arrow that I absolutely do not get from Batman.  This issue is incredibly action packed, and it just leaves you wanting so much more. Another thing I think is pretty cool are the different types of arrows that Green Arrow uses. I’m seriously looking forward to what else he has in his arsenal.  This is an awesome comic, and I’m seriously looking forward to reading the next issue. . What I think after issue four While Green Arrow is definitely an entertaining comic, it didn’t impress me much. Where other comics have a great story, great art, great intelligence, or just an original angle, Green Arrow is a little below average. The story is fun but simplistically straightforward, the art is nice but not amazing, the whole comic is just shallow action, and there is a significant lack of originality. A redeeming quality would definitely be the fun factor brought by the awesome gadgets Green Arrow uses in battle, but with nothing but a random bunch of weak supervillains to battle, even those seem to lose their value.
			Read James’s review of the first issue here.
			Hawk and Dove
			What Michelle said after the first issue There have been many superhero pairings throughout comic history. However, few are comprised of such contrary individuals as Hawk and Dove. While they are opposites by their very natures as avatars of war and peace, they also have a number of personal issues that stand between them. This opening issue does a decent job conveying this tension and its effects on their working relationship. So far, the story seemed promising, although it is hard to tell how it will progress at this early stage. The art seemed pretty flat and lacked the elegance or atmosphere of some of the other first issues I’ve reviewed. Hawk and Dove is not my first priority, but the story still has a fair bit of potential. . What I think after issue four Hawk and Dove’s second, third and fourth issues continued much as that first issue: unimpressive, but with great character dynamic. Truth be told, this comic does have a lot of potential, but it remains untapped for now. Part of the problem may be the lack of background given in these issues. Sure, I get the whole sense of mystery the creators of Hawk and Dove are aiming for, but it just doesn’t work for me when all the questions are answered only by raising more questions. This is an interesting comic with great characters, but when all is said and done, it just isn’t enough to engage my interest.
			Read Michelle’s review of the first issue here.
			Justice League International
			What I said after the first issue Justice League International, or JLI, is a team of misfit superheroes from all the big nations. Of course, that doesn’t stop Batman from sneaking on the team without the consent of the UN. Starting at the very beginning of the story, Justice League International is the perfect introduction to DC’s reboot. It is, however, a slow start. And, unfortunately, the less familiar superheroes aren’t as engaging as their more well-known counterparts—not so much because they are unknown, but because their characters aren’t as well fleshed out. Yet when the action finally breaks loose in full, Justice League International develops into a decent comic. While I feel like I won’t miss out on anything if I don’t read further, this league of superhero misfits has me intrigued. . What I think after issue four Justice League International definitely caught me by surprise. While they were all still lumped together in the first issue, and in a lot of ways quite stereotyped, the next three issues slowly introduced each individual character, fleshing them out significantly. More importantly, though, from the moment the action started near the end of the first issue, it never stops again. Our league of misfit superheroes is pitched against a powerful threat that we gradually learn more about. It’s an awesome and kickass story that keeps me on the edge of my seat. My only complaints are that events happen too fast and that I’d prefer a bit more detail.
			Read my review of the first issue here.
			O.M.A.C.
			What James said after the first issue O.M.A.C. #1 is the most action-packed introduction to a comic that I have ever read, and I am incredibly pleased with it. From the very first pages, this story had me absolutely hooked. O.M.A.C. is a blue Hulk-esque giant with a badass electric mullet, and there is seriously nothing capable of stopping him. The few other characters are introduced nicely, and the general vibe and culture of the comic is doing a great job of introducing me to the world that I’m eagerly interested in throwing myself into. Out of all the comics I’ve read and am going to be reviewing this week, this is the story that I’m looking forward to continuing most of all. . What I think after issue four James’ assessment of O.M.A.C.’s first issue seems quite accurate. I couldn’t have said it any better myself, and it still holds true for the second, third, and fourth issues. Have you ever seen the TV series Prison Break? There’s a season where pretty much everyone is after the protagonists, all for different reasons. That’s what O.M.A.C. reminded me of. Here’s a guy who is used and manipulated, has lost all control over his life, and pretty much everyone is after him. The best part is: by the end of issue four, the reader has yet to find out which parties are good and which are evil. O.M.A.C. is definitely an amazing and action-packed comic.
			Read James’s review of the first issue here.
			Red Lanterns
			What Ashik said after the first issue Atrocitus is the red-skinned leader of the Red Lanterns. They’re like the Green Lanterns in a way, but with less of a pristine image. See, their power isn’t fueled by bravery; it is fueled by rage. But Atrocitus can’t seem to perform like he used to, his rage is weaker, and he is becoming powerless. The major arc seems to be that beneath the veneer of bloody and violent vengeance, there is a power struggle between Atrocitus and another member of the Red Lanterns named Bleez. But not all of the parties even recognize the existence of this struggle. The art, as you might imagine, has a lot of red. I mean, the issue is drenched in it. But if you get past the thematic coloring, it’s not a bad issue, art wise. It certainly is not the best in the reboot, but not bad either. . What I think after issue four The amount of red art, as mentioned in the review of issue one, definitely becomes an issue for me over time. It is just too red, making details too hard to distinguish. In spite of that, Red Lanterns is definitely a good comic. While a lot of fragments of story and action seem to be going on at all times, the real story is that of the Lantern team and an inner struggle within that team. The story is slow, though, with all the fragments in between, and I’m having trouble deciding whether that is an annoyance or an asset. After four issues, I don’t know if I really like Red Lanterns enough to continue reading, but this is definitely an intriguing comic.
			Read Ashik’s review of the first issue here.
			Static Shock
			What I said after the first issue Static Shock reminded me of nothing more than Spiderman: an intelligent, young, funny, and self-conscious superhero. The big question in this first issue isn’t whether the superhero deserves his own comic, nor is it whether the art lives up—it truly does; it is colorful, sharp, detailed, and does a great job conveying a techy, scientific feeling and atmosphere. No, instead, the question is whether this first issue does a good job introducing Static Shock to new readers like myself. Unfortunately, it doesn’t. The character is not introduced whatsoever.  While Static Shock isn’t my favorite of DC’s comics so far, it definitely scintillates with energy and enthusiasm. The technological angle intrigues me and is enough to keep me reading—for now. I definitely need some more background to really pull me in. . What I think after issue four Cloned sisters who don’t know which one is the clone—and in the first issue, I kept wondering why the sister changed clothes every other panel—and a villain whose only compatible mate is the superhero—“Virule must make contact with your body. Virule must consume your energy. Virule must kill you with his bare hands!”—are just two of the many eccentrics of Static Shock. Add the extreme amount of both monologue and dialogue and the lack of background information, and you have a comic that merely annoys instead of entertains. Even the great art and awesome tech can’t make up for that.
			Read my review of the first issue here.
			Stormwatch
			What I said after the first issue Stormwatch is absolutely amazing. There, I said it. It totally is! Think Heroes meets Justice League, with a hint of 1984. Stormwatch is a group of soldiers watching out for the world. The thing with this story is that these are all ordinary people. They don’t seem to be trying to control the world, they just try to keep it in one piece. For that, they use people with special abilities. It’s a concept we’ve seen before, on TV and in movies. It is, however, a concept that I imagined to be a bit more difficult to adapt into comic form. For example, I’ve read the Heroes comics, and I felt they didn’t do it well enough. Sepulveda and Passalaqua, however, succeed in combining a series of unique powers into their art. Each of those work quite well, whether it’s shapeshifting or mind-probing the internet. . What I think after issue four It’s true, Stormwatch really is amazing! I love the power struggles and the team dynamic. I love the story, the mystery, and the high stakes the superheroes are facing. I love how ordinary people are facing extraordinary situations and the creative, original superpowers they use for it. I love how Stormwatch feels more like a TV show than a comic. Most of all, though, I love that despite the TV feeling, this is definitely a comic, with beautiful art and a great story. Everything about Stormwatch just hits home.
			Read my review of the first issue here.
			Swamp Thing
			What Michelle said after the first issue Out of all the DC first issues I have read or reviewed, Swamp Thing would have to be my favorite. Written by Scott Snyder and illustrated by Yanick Paquette, this comic is truly a work of art. The illustration is exquisite with people, buildings, plants, and even pigeons rendered in stunning detail. The colors are vibrant and the artist does a fantastic job conveying a sense of depth with minimal shading. The overall effect is something quite beautiful that you want to look through again and again. The plot itself was quite compelling and had a delightfully dark edge that really appealed to me and I felt compelled to continue reading. I’m infatuated with the gorgeous artwork and can’t wait to find out what happens next. . What I think after issue four The beauty of Swamp Thing is that it takes time to both tell and show a story. Unlike many of the other reboots, you aren’t thrown into the story, but you are instead eased into it. It is like a book told through art, and while we call all comic drawings art, Swamp Thing is the real masterpiece. Great skill and detail are put in these panels, some of which would fit well on the walls of an art gallery. The creators of Swamp Thing weren’t afraid to explore other aspects, either. While the comic itself wasn’t my favorite of this week’s roundup, this is the only one that I desperately want in my trade paperback collection—it is pure art.
			Read Michelle’s review of the first issue here.

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What do you think? Will you be checking out any of these comics? Feel free to leave a comment with your reactions or feedback. I’d love to hear from other comic fans!

These round-ups serve two purposes. They are meant to help you pick comics you may possibly want to read, and I am also looking for four to six good comics to continue reviewing each week—much in the vein of Civilian Reader’s amazing Comic Round-Ups, which you should check out if you’re a comic fan. From this week’s comics, I will continue reading Batwing, Justice League International, O.M.A.C., Stormwatch, and Swamp Thing.

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