Friday, August 24, 2012

Before Watchmen: Dr. Manhattan #1 (of 4)

I keep waiting for the Before Watchmen series to fall on its face, and it looks like I'll have to keep waiting.

For the Dr. Manhattan series, we have another "killer's row" of creators (can two guys make up a row?). Writer J. Michael Straczynski channels Vonnegut in a story that hops merrily along the strange timeline (and lifeline) of the title character.

The art is a (sadly) rare modern example of interior art by the great Adam Hughes. He provides amazing renditions of a number of characters, some "real world" figures and some set firmly in the super-hero world. The art is riveting and lush, with stunning layouts and designs throughout.

(Though given his incredible gifts for drawing beautiful women, it seems wrong that he only draws a half-dozen panels with Silk Spectre. Thank goodness for that cover.)

It's an amazing issue as we get an overview of Dr. Manhattan's life throughout his existence, from the accident that created him to his superhero career and his new home on Mars.

The story is deceptive, too, because it seems to be covering ground well covered in the original Watchmen series - but just as I was starting to think, "I've seen all this before," the story takes a very surprising turn.

I'm not sure if this is the best of the "Before Watchmen" series so far, but it's another outstanding addition to the lineup. Very impressive.

Grade: A-

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2 comments:

-> Ray said...

If two points can define a line, than I'd say that two guys can make a row.

Chuck said...

Works for me!