NIGHTWING #143 (DC Comics)
The weight of the world is crashing all around Dick Grayson.
After dealing with a mysterious witch and a fatal crash in Bludhaven, Nightwing has returned to Gotham to stop a driver with a truck full of explosives. Badly worn down, Grayson makes the save but not without help.
Damian Wayne has arrived as “Bad Seeds” continues to spread its’ vines through Gotham City.
NIGHTWING #143 by Dan Watters, David Lapham, Francesco Segala& Wes Abbott (DC COMICS) continues its’ “Bad Seeds” tie-in.
Let’s take a closer look at events.
NIGHTWING #143 by Dan Watters, David Lapham, Francesco Segala& Wes Abbott (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Watters dives heavily into the dynamic behind a classic pair of heroes. The opening pages tease a time lost in Gotham’s past. Knowing who the main character is there only adds more gas to a raging fire. The writing shows the toll of recent events is catching up with Nightwing. He comes across not as sharp as he should be, This is amplified even more by Damian Wayne. While the banter is lighter, it does not steer away from the larger problem at hand.
The pair’s inclusion to events showcases a few different themes. Arguably the biggest one is the evolution of Damian Wayne. His breakdown of Grayson’s issues is precise as they attempt to save lives in the City. Their conversation leads into Grayson admitting his own faults. Another co-star drives this home as they try to regain order in the streets. This leads to a full circle moment with a classic Batman rogue. The writing captures the dangers and idiosyncrasies involved to present a fitting challenge. In the aftermath, another solid bonding moment happens between the pair to close out on a high note.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Lapham opens with a throwback look at old Gotham. The horrific moment carries weight in the present as the Rogue’s eyes speaks volumes (even if they can’t move). This moves events to present Gotham as Nightwing takes care of the driver he chased. There’s much concern on his face as events start sinking in. Damian’s half panel intro is classic in delivery while reuniting the pair. Scenes move fast here as the city gets further out of control.
Once they go into action, panels are smaller in structure to lock in on the toll this event is having. Six to Eight panel pages lock in on the action as Nightwing tries holding it together while his body breaks down. After a fun cameo, events shift to the main event. Lucas’ coloring brings a vintage feel to the modern crime ready to take place. Readers don’t wait too long for action to fire up. A solid half panel shows the bullets flying while Nightwing and Robin intervene. This spins into great fighting images until all the smoke clears. Combat ends with a solid mid panel of the heroes holding ground. This allows for the closing pages to be more loose with interactions and a fun nod to wrap things up with. Solid work.
FINAL GRADE: 9
Damian Wayne gives Nightwing a helping hand but is it already too late for Gotham? Watters lets the pair loose while spotlighting the toll taken on Grayson. Lapham and the art team present a stacked vision of events with some bonding moments thrown in the mix. Putting the karma out there: Watters could write an excellent “Nightwing and Robin” series.
Let me know your thoughts on Nightwing #143 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
