About Heroes

Author: Walter Simonson
Artist: Howard Chaykin

I would be lying if I were to say that this is a One Year Later book I've been waiting anxiously for. I had high hopes for this series, but lets be realistic it’s just a supporting character being carried by two big names in the industry. This was a brilliant move by DC, but in the end it they will only end up cancelling the book. Although it is really a re-launch it was probably a good idea to keep it at number 50, then to confuse readers into getting another #1 title.

Okay, first let’s talk about that gorgeous art from Chaykin. American Flagg was one of my personal favorite books and having Chaykin teamed up with Simonson who did the greatest run on Thor was like a dream come true for me. Chaykin's art for Hawkgirl is some of his most open artwork since his days on Power & Glory. Some people have a problem with his use of big panels and big heads with expressions filling every page, but damn do I miss that in my books. Yes Hawkgirl has giant nipples (which I think is hot!) and a belly piercing, but damn Chaykin can add that dynamic tone to the book with his clear panel structures. His dark thick lines add to the dark tone of the book.

I hate to admit it but the story fell a bit short of the art in this issue. Simonson's story has Hawkgirl out of costume because he wants to take this book away from the superheroesque feel to a more horror\sci-fi story. This can be a problem with some readers that are interested in Kendra and how she fits into the DC Universe after one year. She has been seen in JSA and Rann/Thannagar War, and although it’s nice to see her in the spotlight, most of us including myself want to know where she stands in the DCU. There are references to "the past year" and the Rann/Thanagar War, but it doesn't get too much into details.

The story begins with a mysterious dream of strange events that haunt Kendra and endanger those near her. For the most part Kendra is out of costume, which is really nice to see a OYL title, since some of the books I'm reading it’s still a mystery who is behind the mask or cowl. Although not the best of jumping points I think the title will benefit from remaining connected to the previous incarnation, drawing out the reader's curiosity over Hawkman’s absence. Perhaps new readers will be drawn by its Sci-fi/horror look.

Nice to have Chaykin and Simonson back on a monthly title and I hope they will stay on this continuing series for a while because it's been too long since either of them has lent their talents to a solid long run. I would be happy with a good 12 issues, but as previously stated, I think this book is mainly targeted for old-school fans and will probably not even last that long. But who knows in this day in age what One Year Later titles will be canned and which will keep rocking.
B