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“But it ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward; how much you can take and keep moving forward.” – Rocky Balboa
That is the challenge that has been thrown at the DC heroes by a new Trinity. Amanda Waller. Brainiac Queen. Failsafe. United they stand, divided the heroes fell.
Last time we saw the remaining heroes, the Fortress of Solitude was the latest casualty of Waller’s attack. Taking out Superman’s hideaway spoke volumes of the attack. Now on the run, the heroes hope is running out as the reign of Waller appears to take over.
ABSOLUTE POWER #3 by Mark Waid, Dan Mora, Alejandro Sánchez and Ariana Maher (DC COMICS) finds the heroes broken and worse for wear. Can they buy enough time to find a solution to the Waller problem before it’s too late?
With an event this BIG, it calls for a joint review from the N.I. Bullpen! On the call for this one is Marty Stoked (Assistant Editor) and Yours Truly (Ken – EIC/ODPH Podcast). It’s time to break down the latest chapter of DC’s event of 2024!
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
HOW ABOUT THE WRITING?
Ken: Waid presents an ethical question in the midst of the chaos. The fate of Jon Kent is one that becomes quite polarizing amongst the remaining heroes. Both Nightwing and Barda present points to their respective arguments.
In this time of uncertainty, uncomfortable choices have to be made. The ultimate answer provides a moment readers won’t be able to escape. Pacing allows for the creative build to amplify this outcome along the furious action.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW!
The writing also weaves a few other instances where hope is still the heroes’ greatest strength. Waid mixes in challenges of self doubt and battling through it. These stories give the readers reassurance that they won’t go down with a final play. It leads into a very strong closing act. The chapter wraps up with another fantastic cliffhanger leading into its’ final stand.
Marty: Mark Waid delivers a masterclass in tension and pacing with this issue of Absolute Power. As the story moves to Themyscira, the uneasy alliance between Earth’s heroes and the Amazons is fraught with suspense, reflecting Waller’s increasingly desperate and unraveling psyche. Waid brilliantly writes Waller as a character on the brink, her once flawless strategies beginning to show cracks, allowing a glimmer of hope to shine through for the heroes. Nightwing’s leadership is a standout, rallying the remaining heroes with determination and resilience. The narrative is packed with action and twists that keep readers on edge, perfectly setting up the next phase of this epic conflict.
LET’S TALK ART AND LETTERING!
Ken: Mora and Sanchez bring an even balance of action and emotion to this chapter. The stance of Barda vs. Nightwing carries much weight with their reactions. This becomes even heavier with a half page panel of Nightwing leading a charge to resolve this once and for all. Readers can easily sense this tension while Grayson kicks into high gear.
This is complemented with BIG action sequences. Bizarro’s onslaught leaves a brutal mark. Mora keeps up the electric feel throughout the fighting. This especially shines in the final act. With an emotional half page panel, there is finally a win under the heroes column. It is an image readers have been waiting to see for quite some time in this saga. Factor that in with the parting image and this series strikes a home run yet again!
Marty: Dan Mora’s art is nothing short of spectacular, especially in the action sequences that are both dynamic and meticulously detailed. His innovative use of panel layouts, particularly during the scenes involving the Brainiac Queen, enhances the storytelling by reflecting the chaos and intensity of the battles. Alejandro Sanchez’s vibrant colors bring the pages to life, with his use of light and shadow adding depth to the already stunning visuals. The eerie, otherworldly design of the Brainiac Queen is a highlight, both terrifying and captivating, showcasing the creativity of the art team.
Ariana Maher’s lettering is a crucial component, guiding readers seamlessly through the chaotic scenes without losing the narrative thread. The use of varying font styles and sizes helps differentiate between the numerous characters, making the story easy to follow. The strategic placement of onomatopoeia adds an extra layer of excitement, emphasizing the impact of key moments.
FINAL POINTS!
Ken: 9.6 The heroes of the DCU rediscover hope through chaos with an incredible pen-ultimate issue. Wais’ writing brings out the best of an exhausted and broken group of heroes. Mora and Sanchez elevate the emotions and actions flawlessly. The only thing not to like about this series is that its’ ending soon.
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Marty: 9.5 Absolute Power #3 delivers on all fronts, with a gripping story, breathtaking art, and top-tier lettering. Mark Waid and his creative team have crafted an issue that not only advances the plot but does so with style and substance. This is a must-read for fans of high-stakes superhero drama.
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Thanks for checking out our review for the NI Comics Bullpen. Let us know what comics you’re reading and hit us up on any social media platform – Marty and Ken
