A review of Nightwing #141 By Michael Berry (Lightning Strike) February 14, 2008 Rating: 9.2 / 10

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artist: Rags Morales

This is the second issue of the new Tomasi/Rags run and as much as I enjoyed the first issue, this one was even more superb.

Rags is doing an amazing job on the artwork. Each person has their own look and feel. A good example of this is when, as Nightwing and Superman are discussing the body snatching situation, Nightwing is shown perched on a ledge instead of the boring side by side standing shot that we usually get when two heroes are talking to each other. Little things like that really go a long way with me. I notice these things and really appreciate them.

In addition to Nightwing unraveling clues to find out who is stealing the dead bodies of fallen heroes and villains throughout the city (which began in issue #140), this issue continues where the last one left off by setting up the new status quo for Nightwing, as Tomasi brilliantly constructs Nightwing's new life---Dick finds a new home, a new job as curator of a museum called the Cloisters, as well as his nightly adventures as Nightwing, and finally, adding new characters to Dick's supporting cast, most notably Deborah, whom Dick has a flirtatious relationship with.

I also immensely enjoyed how Tomasi peppered the issue with guest appearances by Batman, Superman, Flash, GL and the JSA, however, it wasn't overdone. Tomasi doesn't overwhelm the reader with the guest appearances. He keeps Nightwing the main focus by keeping those scenes short and sweet. And as a fan of Wally West, GL and the JSA, it was a welcome addition to the story.

The best part of this issue though is the heart to heart scene with Wally West and Dick, as they get caught up with what's going on in each other's lives (this is their first time they've talked since Wally left this dimension with his wife and children back in Infinite Crisis #4). One particular panel stands out as Dick tells Wally that he's "done with the 'what if's' and on to the 'what's next' part of my life. We've both seen way too many people die. It's time to start embracing passions each in our own way, Wally. You've done it. I'm doing it".

Tomasi is actually giving Nightwing something he's been missing for a long time---purpose. Instead of just throwing together some drab issues of Nightwing fighting the cliche' super-villains with no real rhyme or reason, Tomasi is instead building up Dick's personal life, while at the same time giving us a sense of adventure with Dick's role as Nightwing.

It's fascinating to see how much Tomasi has done with just two issues, but Tomasi just GETS Nightwing. He seems to have a natural feel for the character and his surroundings. And he's steamrolling Nightwing into a new and exciting part of his life. So hop aboard and enjoy the ride!

Discuss This Review at:
The Nightwing and Robin Message Board

Review Archives
All reviews by Michael Berry (Lightning Strike)