Wonder Woman #2
By Zak Edwards
October 20, 2011 - 14:56
DC Comics
Writer(s): Brian Azzarello
Penciller(s): Cliff Chiang
Colourist(s): Matthew Wilson
Letterer(s): Jared K. Fletcher
Cover Artist(s): Cliff Chiang
$2.99 US
Brian Azzarello’s first issue of Wonder Woman convinced me to pay attention to a character I had never wanted to read before, which I guess was one of the major points of DC Comics reboot. I was entranced, the issue was layered and wove together classic mythology with DC’s contemporary mythos for a story, though very reminiscent of Neil Gaiman’s Sandman, is unlike much of what I have seen before. Azzarello’s Wonder Woman has me convinced there is some amazing storytelling ahead and this issue is absolutely no different.
Cliff Chiang proved last issue that he is capable of much in the story, stringing together action sequences and horrific imagery while also making the more talking heads moments interesting as well. This all continues here: the action sequences, while condensed, are fun to look at and convey more than just fighting, they speak to the characters involved. Compared to other action sequences that may exist as spectacle, Chiang adds depth through these sequences. The main action sequence, a sort of gladiatorial fight between Diana and another Amazon, doesn’t so much flow as seem to happen simultaneously, which actually works out much better in its own way. His character designs are varied as well, with the gods and goddesses having a vaguely Sandman take to them, looking like outsiders owing their looks to prominent subcultures. Thankfully, Chiang has avoided the hipster look, going instead for more goth and aristocratic looks, but his blend of contemporary and classic in his designs enhances Azzarello’s approach.
Grade: A Continues to entrance and entice. Excellent work.
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