February Marvel Previews |
Wonder Woman #14
Written by Gail Simone
Art and Cover by Terry Dodson and Rachel Dodson
Variant cover by Michael Golden
Review by Rodney Sweigart
After a rocky start and random creative team changes, it looks like DC is finally given our favorite Amazon the attention and care she truly deserves. Yes, I am talking about Wonder Woman, whose latest issue hit the stands last week. This series has suffered a turbulent first year with delayed issues and lack of direction. Hopefully, this will mark the beginning of her return to glory.
To be honest, I don’t think I would be picking this title up again if it was not for Gail Simone. Gail did INCREDIBLE things in terms of character development and plotlines during her lengthy run on Birds of Prey. I loved her then and love the way she starts her run on Wonder Woman. Her debut arc is entitled “The Circle”. "The Circle" is promising to give a fresh twist to the renowned origin. What forces were at work when Diana was born? I am curious and excited to see how this pans out.
The issue hits the ground running as we see Hippolyta visiting the four corners on Themyscira, where prisoners are asked “do you repent?”. The final prisoner (Alkyone) challenges Hippolyta, implying that Diana’s death will unite the Amazons. Apparently, Diana’s mother is harboring a secret that will break her heart (again). Alkyone vows to spill Diana’s blood.
For those who are not up on their DC current events, there was an attack on Washington DC, Diana has a secret identity (Agent Diana Prince) and a Countdown to the Final Crisis that is ravaging the DCU. Currently, Wonder Woman is an exile from the island. When we see Wonder Woman in action, she is fighting Grodd’s minions who have been enhanced. These white apes are fighting Wonder Woman as a test. Obviously, she kicks their butt.
One thing that I loved about Gail’s work on Birds of Prey is her balance of action with downtime. She gives incredible insight to her characters as well as adding a sense of humor. Two characters that I am fascinated by are Tom Tresser (aka Nemesis) and Lt. Colonel Etta Candy. Nemesis has moved up from his days as a C-level character. Etta is not the lovesick simpleton that I remember from the old WW television show. This Etta has drive, an edge, and intelligence.
Villians. What makes a heroine a heroine without adversaries? Aside from the unfolding Circle plot, we have Agent Prince on a mission to investigate the return of the Society (think anti-JLA, led by Grodd). She and Nemesis confront Captain Nazi while his forces invade Themyscira. End of issue, leading to next month’s fight scenes.
Art. I admit that I am spoiled by George Perez’s work on the previous Wonder Woman series. And nothing turns me away from a comic than bad art. The panels and drawings should not distract from the story, but rather enhance it. Chaykin’s artwork on Hawkgirl was a nail in the coffin. Terry and Rachel Dodson definitely bring Gail’s work to life. There is just the right amount of darkness when necessary and incredible figures, too. I love the way this issue looked!!!
I highly recommend giving this series a try. With Gail, Terry and Rachel on board, I think Wonder Woman will fast become a fan fave. I have added this title to my pull list for the first arc (if not longer). I think and hope you do the same.
Comment on this review HERE!
|
|
