DC Comics reviews 7/4/23 – Steelworks#2, Knight Terrors: First Blood #1

Steelworks #2

It’s nice seeing how easily Michael Dorn is crafting a new purpose and premise for Steel. Steelworks hasn’t felt like a retread of previous solid storylines and instead puts John Henry Irons in more of a futurist mentality as he’s trying to find ways to stop massive incidents before they occur.

If the plan succeeds, the Super Family might not be in much demand soon. Natasha doesn’t love that idea, but Dorn avoids the problematic take on Natasha like too many other writers fall into by having her be dismissive and obnoxious with her uncle.

Dorn incorporates characters from other Super Family titles while having little trouble capturing those characters’ established voices from other titles.

Charles Walker III might come off like a generic Lex Luthor, but Dorn is saving sole creativity for later. A scientist arch rival capable of creating new threats for Steel and Natasha to handle every other issue is a savvy approach to keep readers on the hook.

The art, provided by Sam Basri, Vicente Cifuntes and Max Raynor is solid with thankfully little awkward transitions from one artist to the next. Andre Dahouse and Matt Herms provide stunning, bold colors while letterer Rob Leigh works in some fun stylistic special effects.

Steelworks might not be a game changer — yet — but it’s got great potential thanks to the creative team’s respect for the characters and the reader.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Photo Credit: DC Comics