DC Comics 11/2/21 – Batman #116, Dark Knights of Steel #1

The Human Target #1

Tom King has written enough maxi-series that readers know what’s in store. The opening few chapters are engaging. King knows how to establish a strong premise and set the foundation. And then at some point, it comes tumbling down.

The Human Target’s first issue doesn’t break from the pattern. King does an effective explanation of Christopher Chance and his unique role of being marked for death while posing as a decoy. In this issue, King sets up Chance’s latest gig working for Lex Luthor and the immediate repercussions.

King can write very compelling dialogue and the exchanges with Chance and Luthor are worth buying this issue alone. But just as clearly as the first steps in a King story, the ending seems headed towards an equally frustrating payoff. Especially with who King appears to bring in for the sake of tearing down. That’s not a good decision if that’s indeed what King is planning.

Greg Smallwood’s art is sensational. It definitely has that 70s Silver Age less is more mentality. Smallwood also colors his own work and it offers a soothing, relaxing tone.

Letterer Clayton Cowles also gets to work in some creative arrangements.

Human Target gets off to a striking start with compelling scenarios, good dialogue and incredible artwork. Hopefully this can be the title where King bucks his tradition and satisfyingly wraps what could be one of his stronger runs.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10

Image Credit: DC Comics