DC Comics reviews for the week of 7/19/17

Aquaman #26

With three main artists, Aquaman has lacked visual consistency. Thankfully, writer Dan Abnett was able to keep the title afloat with a terrific mix of superheroics, political intrigue and great character work. And now with Stjepan Sejic’s gorgeous artwork,  there’s no reason at all not to pick up this title. If the payoff for occasionally missing a release week is Sejic remaining on the book, I’ll happily take that inconvenience.

Sejic makes Atlantis such a mesmerizing environment and the character work — from the faces to movement — is even better. Aquaman has never looked this good. And with Sejic coloring his work, there’s a beautiful cohesion with the fittingly watercolor style presentation.

Aquaman is still lying low in the ninth tride trying to avoid the attention of Atlantis’ new ruler Corin Rath. But Aquaman can’t deny his impulses to help others in need, which has already gained him a new ally in Dolphin. Meanwhile above the surface, Mera is hammering the Crown of Thorns in hopes of getting to Aquaman. Justice League readers already saw this scene play out last issue from a global perspective, but it’s cool seeing the Atlantis reaction as well.

Rath’s leadership is already making negative waves and a prominent Atlantean — and regular supporting cast member of Abnett’s run — sets plans in motion to overthrow him. The superhero stuff has been excellent, but it’s the constant political machinations that has allowed Abnett to take this title to another level.

Aquaman can’t be bothered with politics just yet. The crimeboss in the Ninth might be on to him and sends his top assassin to retrieve him. Even with the aid of Dolphin and her fellow undesirables, Aquaman might not be a match for the killer Kadaver.

At this point with Abnett and Sejic, Aquaman is required DC Rebirth reading as it’s delivering everything fans could ask for and more.

Rating: 10 out of 10