After 12
issues, Marv Wolfman’s latest installment on a character he created four
decades ago ends not with an all-out final battle against evil, but a simple
outwitting of the enemy. On one hand, it’s a little disappointing and
anti-climactic; on the other, it’s refreshingly simple while maintaining the
integrity of the character.
It’s in this issue that we
begin to see less of Raven and more of the Daughter of Darkness, as her demonic
side begins to emerge amidst the turmoil of her battle with the Shadow-Riders.
She begins to emerge as a leader among the Arcanes of the DC Universe; or, if
not a leader, at least a power to be reckoned with.
As for her unwilling association
with Baron Winters, that’s yet to be resolved. Will she ally herself with him,
to battle the chaotic magics of the DCU? Will the current incarnation of Night
Force ever form again? I’m sure that all depends on reader response. I can’t
help but feel there was a sequence left out, which would have addressed these
questions.
Instead, Raven returns to
her human family, whose memories she wiped in an effort to protect them. And
now, seemingly, she must begin again to build the “normal” relationships she
had within her foster family. (Hmm. Foster family. Magical teen. How soon until
her path crosses with Shazam?)
It was a good series while
it lasted. Throughout, we have seen Pop Mhan’s artwork develop and mature,
though there’s still some growing to be done. Back in the 1970s and ‘80s, there
were artists like Don Heck and Alex Saviuk who weren’t necessarily fan
favorites, but they hit their deadlines. Hardly rock stars, but vital to the
craft. Pop Mahn may be such an artist, and that’s not a bad thing.
Rating: 7/10