BATMAN/STATIC BEYOND #2 (DC COMICS)
Even in the future, the best laid plans don’t always work out so well.
Virgil Hawkins aka Static is pushing the Q-Wave Energy Grid. The game changing technology spells endless possibilities. It also draws unwanted attention. With a threat like Shutdown ready to upend everything, Static appears to have a partner in fighting the good fight with him. Terry McGuiness aka Batman Beyond is in tow for this latest adventure.
BATMAN/STATIC BEYOND #2 by Evan Narcisse, Nikolas Draper-Ivey & Wes Abbott (DC Comics) continues the epic future team-up saga.
Let’s take a closer look at what unfolds here.
BATMAN/STATIC BEYOND #2 by Evan Narcisse, Nikolas Draper-Ivey & Wes Abbott (DC Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Narcisse kicks events off with Terry’s frantic search for Melvin. The writing moves at a faster pace to reflect the desperate search. Terry’s worry can’t be ignored here. The same can be said for Static. Their conversation is tense knowing that the grid launch can’t fail. It is evident the weight Static has put on himself. Stakes are already high enough by the time readers find Melvin. His situation is dire and one not without pause for concern. Showcasing unstable powers, Melvin’s reactions are fitting but elude to much more.
Readers watch as Melvin’s realization of events starts sinking in. The tone is troubling as the young man breaks down his new capabilities. Once the story switches back to Terry and company, the troubles follow suit. Conversations with the protesters paint a clear picture of issues. This contrasts Static’s view as he explains his involvement and future achievement. His optimism and drive will win readers over. Shutdown may have another take on his work. His full introduction makes a statement while showcasing his novice approach. This builds up into a strong finish. The writing leaves a huge cliffhanger to tied fans over until next issue. This one is much more than an open and shut case.
Draper-Ivey opens with a near full page shot of Batman soaring in the sky. The tone is very stressful as both he and Static converse about Melvin’s situation. Their expressions clearly state their frustrations with Melvin and each other. This allows for Melvin’s immediate fallout to commence. The panels are frantic as his new powers kick in over panic. It builds towards an immense release which changes his train of thought. Panels reflect the new discovery and set forth his new path as Shutdown.
Once Static comes back into focus, readers are treated to a quick history lesson of the Dakota Universe. Panels showcasing Icon, Rocket and Hardware will be fan-favorites. The neon-esque coloring of these panels makes Static’s sequence pop off the pages. This is an obvious contrast to the brooding, dark world of Batman. The same can be said for Shutdown. There are some near full page images showcasing his new identity along with combat. This comes to a head when Static crashes the scene. The art gives him a dramatic entrance. Readers watch as the closing conflict spirals out of control. The final page makes a loud statement as the panels scream what danger lies ahead.
FINAL GRADE: 8.2
The emergence of Shutdown threatens everything that Static has worked for. Can he and Batman work together long enough to stop him? Narcisse’s writing delivers a solid introduction into the future’s latest rogue. Draper-Ivey hits readers with very impressive images to escalate an already explosive tale. This is one to keep an eye out for on NCBD!
Let me know your thoughts on BATMAN/STATIC BEYOND #2 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
