In 2003, while home from college and shopping at the local grocery store, I decided to swing by the spinner rack. At this time in my life, comics were a thing of the past. I was no longer a Wednesday Warrior. However, that all changed after I laid eyes on Batman #619.
It was the cover image that hooked me. It reminded me of my favorite X-Men comics from the 90s. I had never seen Batman drawn so realistic and stoic.
It was a thing of beauty.
As I glanced through the detailed interiors – it clicked. The comic was drawn by well-known X-Men artist, Jim Lee. What the hell was he doing drawing The Dark Knight? Not that I was complaining. I was just shocked.
Little did I know, I was picking up the conclusion of the Hush storyline assembled by some of the best in the industry. Fast-forward to present day, and the much anticipated sequel has dropped. Is it just as good?
Jim Lee, Scott Williams, Jeph Loeb, and Alex Sinclair – Nuff Said
The cover price of a Big Two comic is $4.99 – higher than a gallon of gas, and close to the price of a movie ticket. For that amount of dough, you want to get your monies worth.
I can honestly say that you won’t be disappointed. Jim Lee’s art with the addition of Scott Williams’ inks and Alex Sinclair’s colors delivers 90s nostalgia by the piranha truckload.
Unlike other artists that continue to produce work that is unrecognizable when compared to their glory days, the artistic talent of Lee, Williams, and Sinclair is unwavering.
Loeb’s talent as a storyteller also shines bright and is complemented by the art. Interestingly, a lot of the story harkens back to past Batman stories.
The Good, the Bad Guy, and the Gruesome
Now, I have given this issue its praise, but I feel like I should add some critiques. There are times when facial expressions look off. Is that Michael Scott or Bruce Wayne?
And regarding story, I am not sure why Hush decided to get Batman’s attention by going after the Joker. It seems like an odd choice. Maybe like a role reversal of Death in a Family? I’m just not sure why this would send Batman over the edge. Time will tell.
Overall, I give this issue a 9 out of 10 Bat Shark Repellents! Holy sardines?
I blog and podcast with my life-long friend. Enjoy the ride before it’s over!
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