Review: Future State - Dark Detective #2

“A Sign”, and “Mask Alert”

Writers: Mariko Tamaki and Joshua Williamson
Artists: Dan Mora and Giannis Milonogiannis
Color Artist: Jordie Bellaire
Letterers: Aditya Bidikar and ALW’s Troy Peteri

Review by Steve J. Ray

OK, as far as I’m concerned DC’s Future State initiative is a runaway, roaring success. Dark Detective #2 builds on the excellence of the debut issue, and also brings with it a solid back-up story, featuring Jason Todd, the Red Hood.

If this is how good Detective Comics is going to be when Mariko Tamaki takes over the series after Future State, then I’m so glad that it’s one of the books that I review, and collect. The way this series already feels like a continuation of Peter J. Tomasi’s run, while delivering something intriguing, exciting, and brand new, makes this title a joy to read.

I honestly only have one complaint, because I wish the series would run for more than just four issues. Seeing Bruce Wayne without his millions, just using his wits, training, and a home-made bat-suit, is a source of joy. Seeing it beautifully drawn by Dan Mora (Wow, just… wow. Check out the flashbacks!), gorgeously colored by Jordie Bellaire (who’s also responsible for the colors on the Red Hood back-up strip), and innovatively lettered by Aditya Bidikar, only adds to the enjoyment. I’m loving this creative team.

Another thing that ‘s making me happy is Bruce’s supporting cast. Seeing Batman renting someone’s basement is amazing in itself, but meeting his roomies has blown me away. What a great cast of characters!

Let’s Take A Look Under The Hood

The Red Hood tale’s great fun too. Joshua Williamson is a tried and tested star, so his take on Jason Todd was bound to be a good one. While Jordie Bellaire’s colors are impressive, and completely different to her style on the lead strip, sadly Giannis Milonogiannis’ art doesn’t quite do it for me. Don’t get me wrong, his layouts are great, and his storytelling is on point, but his style just isn’t the kind I like. It’s a little cartoony, and has a Manga feel to it. I know that many people love Japanese comics, and I’m sure that they’ll get a kick out of Gianni’s style, but it’s not my thing. He’s clearly a very talented artist, so this is just about personal taste, and preference.

Troy Peteri, as always, delivers great letters. Like Jordie, he adapts his style to fit the tone and feel of the art, elevating every strip he works on.

Conclusion

Dark Detective #2 is another must buy issue. Seeing Batman’s “death” and learning how he got to be where he is now, is proving to be fascinating. He may not have limitless funds, or his wonderful toys, but those were only a small part of what makes Batman great. His spirit, his passion, and never-say-die attitude are still present, front and centre.

This is Batman, this is Bruce Wayne, and this was a great comic.

Images Courtesy of DC Entertainment