DC Comics
Review: Midnighter & Apollo #3
By Philip Schweier
December 28, 2016 - 13:06

DC Comics
Writer(s): Steve Orlando
Penciller(s): Fernando Blanco
Inker(s): Fernando Blanco
Colourist(s): Romulo Fajardo Jr.
Letterer(s): Josh Reed
Cover Artist(s): ACO and Romulo Fajardo Jr.



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This is the first Midnight & Apollo comic I’ve ever read. I’ve read OF them, as they made headlines some years back as one of comics first gay couples. But I’ve never read their books, not because I have any sense of prejudice, but largely because the gay thing seemed too much a gimmick. I’d rather read a really good story, regardless of any sexual context.

In the story, Apollo has apparently died and gone to hell, and Midnighter is determined to bring him back. To do this, he subscribes to dark forces he doesn’t entirely believe in. Meanwhile, Apollo is in Hell playing games with his host, who is determined to expose Apollo’s true self.

The narrative is good, with a few innovations I’ve not seen before. Clearly, Midnighter is devoted to his partner and that comes across very effectively. It’s easy ot draw a comparison with the bromance between Batman and Superman, but this feels different. It’s not a friendship; it runs much deeper.

The artwork is serviceable. Not great, but Blanco clearly knows his trade. In a few spots it appeared to be more of a display of Photoshop maneuvers, but I don’t begrudge and artist that. It’s not cheating to use every tool at one’s fingertips, and cutting a corner her allows for greater effort there. I just object when it’s so obvious.

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