NIGHTWING #134 (DC Comics)
Into the belly of the dark beast does Dick Grayson go!
The Cirque du Sin has growing its power in Bludhaven. Framing Nightwing for the murder of Olivia Pierce has taken the beloved hero and made him public enemy #1. It has caused headaches in solving their twisted abductions of children's souls. Adding to the chaos is his protégée Nightwing-Prime clings to life after being shot with Kryptonite.
Martain Manhunter has swung through for assistance but that might not be enough. Grayson has taken it upon himself to head into the world of the Zanni alone! What will he find?
NIGHTWING #134 by Dan Watters, V. Ken Marion, Veronica Gandini& Wes Abbott welcomes readers to a deadly game of luck and skill.
Let’s take a deeper dive into the three ring madness of the dark circus.
NIGHTWING #134 by Dan Watters,V. Ken Marion, Veronica Gandini& Wes Abbott (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Watters gives readers a living nightmare to walk through for this issue (in all the best ways). After a small recap of events with Manhunter and Barbara Gordon, the twisted game begins. Zanni wants to break Grayson down. The ice-cold focus of his demeanor refuses to budge. There is no budge on where Grayson’s head is at. It easily shows how he has been trained to block out the mental traps by his mentor. At times, there is a sense that Ol’ Bats is coming out through Grayson for this fight. It might be needed after the Zanni’s plans are set.
The chilling dialogue sets the dark game into its’ opening round. Zanni’s speech echoes the insanity behind his schemes. He wants Grayson as his ringmaster by any costs. Watters delivers on this evil proclamation with the broken souls watching. As the first strike is thrown, the terror in Manhunter’s face is undeniable. This spreads into Grayson’s response. There is never a question action is needed. Readers watch as the counter punch leads to a much needed advancement for Grayson. Just as he takes advantage of the moment, another curve is thrown into the mix. This leads into a shocking final section. Once here, the mood leaves the audience with a solid cliffhanger to let simmer until next round. Very solid writing on display here.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Marion returns for this issue for art duties. The opening conversation with Gordon and Manhunter builds up Grayson’s entrance into the issue. Once here, the coloring of Gandini takes hold. The lighter shade adds to the look of the big top. Close-ups of Grayson blocking out the Zanni’s illusions lead into the main event. The image of the center circle gives off a “big fight feel” with Zanni holding court. Grayson’s intensity shines in these panels. He needs it for what’s following Zanni’s speech.
The visual of the “Can Game” eludes to grave consequences. Zanni’s first blow is felt with much speed behind it. The moment translates to a catastrophe unperceived. This causes a real emotional response from our hero. It is met with a maniacal stare waiting for rebuttal. Readers clearly see how Grayson’s plan goes through without issue. The close-up of Zanni’s face holds nothing back as the move spins the odds away from him. Marion brings the fight in some hard-hitting panels. It is broken up by an X-factor which changes everything. This leads to an impressive final page. With its’ end, it will be curious how this all plays out but you can’t escape its hold until then.
FINAL GRADE: 8.8
Nightwing leaps into the heart of darkness covering Bludhaven in this explosive issue. Watters ‘ writing delves into the building rage of a city’s last hope. Marion and Gandini provide a horror aspect to the art as the stakes continuously rise. The series never misses its’ mark. Check it out!
Let me know your thoughts on Nightwing #134 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
