[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers]
Writer: Tom King
Artist: Clay Mann
Colorist: Tomeu Morey
Summary
The secrets of the DC Universe are hacked! Sanctuary wasn’t supposed to keep records, but now that the A.I. is compromised, superhero secrets are leaking all over the ’Net. Booster and Harley set aside their differences to focus on who they believe is the real killer (assuming one of them isn’t lying, that is). Meanwhile, Batman and the Flash continue to investigate the mysterious murderer. The answer can be found in Sanctuary…but is it safe to go digging in the crime scene?
Positives
The interior art is great. There’s a nice level of detail and expression. Every character looks unique and I really enjoy looking at the book.
This issue is a lot more focused than the previous one. Structurally, the story is moving at a better and more natural pace.
I like the big clue is only something Booster Gold can figure out. That’s very clever and a cool reveal.
Negatives
I don’t like the cover. There isn’t enough detail especially in the faces. Superman’s eyes seem to be closed and I’m entirely sure why he’s pointing at me.
What is the tone of this series? It’s obviously trying to tell a very heavy story dealing with PTSD and the death of a lot of superheroes. But, because it is trying to focus on Booster Gold and Harley Quinn, it wants to be funny. That is manageable but this issue especially feels unbalanced; there is a lot of tonal whiplash. The issue cuts between Superman making a nice speech about Sanctuary and why it’s important and Harley not understanding synonyms.
Speaking of Harley, I hate this take on her. She is so boring and lacks her usual personality. The attempts to give her personality are weak and only amount to singing and not knowing what words mean.
Verdict
Mostly what kills this issue for me is tone. The mystery finally took an interesting turn and the art is enjoyable. But the issue feels like it’s all over the place and I don’t think it works. The comedy doesn’t make me laugh and intrudes on the heavier subject matter which, while interesting, feels like a backdrop as opposed to a focal point.
