Red Hood and the Outlaws #19
WARNING THERE BE SPOILERS!!!
ELLO HOODIES! I have been looking forward to this issue for some time now, and I couldn't be more excited. Tynion is finally on, and though Mico wasn't able to handle the gig, we have Julius Gopez on. The new cover sort of pales in comparison to Mico's cover, but it is inside the cover that the new adventure for the Outlaws is beginning to unfold. The future of the Outlaws is in dire straits, and it couldn't be a more exciting time to be a hoodie, but on to the review!!!
THE GOOD:
The time has finally come, and boy was it worth the wait. There was a bit of a worry in the back of my mind with Tynion, as he is used to writing really serious stuff in Talon and Batman, so for him to immediately capture the mood and feel for the back was everything I could ask for in his run. This issue is definitely a game changer, as it embodies what Jason has been through for the best two years of the book. Tynion even creates some continuity, establishing that this huge story will take place after Jason's cameo in B&R (or Batman and Red Hood). Ironically, this being a Jason story, we focus heavily on Roy and Kori, but Roy in particular. We see Ducra has become a Yoda/Ben Kenobi character, with her magic still present in the Mountains of the All-Caste, as well as Essence, though her intentions aren't entirely clear. The most talked about thing in this issue would definitely be the ending, and though it is a sad move on Jason's part (not pathetic sad, more like wow he was put into that corner and it sucks sad). This will definitely drive the story the way James set it out to be, as we are going to focus on how the Outlaws will stick together, and how their secrets may come back to destroy them.
It is nice to have Gopez on the book. Originally, Mico Suayan was going to take over, and his artwork was top notch, but I was worried that his work was too detailed to actually keep it up through the series. Unfortunately, I was right, but Gopez's style really fits with the adventure style of the book, and even the dark and grimy stuff looks utterly superb.
BEST STORY MOMENT:
This will go in teh art section as well, but Roy overcoming the darkness within him was just an astounding way to begin Tynion's run.
BEST ART MOMENT:
Gopez was extraordinary on Roy's scene. The final page was also outstanding.
THE BAD:
There was a lot of good stuff in here, but I am indifferent to Jason losing his memory. I know he did it so that he wouldn't have any more doubts of his past, but S'aru took the opportunity to remind us what a monkey's paw is. I find that it could be a very valuable tool used in this arc, but hopefully it will be meaningful to the Outlaws in the end. I know they will face trials, but Jason should come out of this with a better appreciation for his life and friends. Not saying I doubt James, but it is just my opinion of how that particular method should turn out. Besides that, which isn't any small ordeal, I have nothing to complain with the story.
Art-wise, this is a very different style than what the book is used to. It feels very penciled, and the coloring almost looks like crayons. I think most of the readers are used to Blond, so that is why it stands out in a negative way. There is also a few panels that I didn't particularly care for of Roy and Jason, and there are some problems when it comes to Kori and Essence. Kori's eyebrows don't go up to her scalp, and both ladies faces' are drawn very narrow. Lastly, I have said this before, and I hope every artist working at DC hears me (what are the chances?)
Koriand'r aka Starfire, does NOT have pupils.
WORST STORY MOMENT: I have a concern with Jason losing his memory, it really isn't a complaint. I just hope it works for the best.
WORST ART MOMENT: I think Gopez is having some trouble drawing Essence and Kori, I will admit, I think he came on a bit late, sort of like Green, so this work may not be his best. I am still invested in his work though.
OVERALL
A really good issue at the end of the day, and a wonderful start for James Tynion IV. Dude, I am so happy you are on this book. James has fortold that we are having a pretty big story for the Outlaws, with next month really being an extension of this issue. I am couldn't be more excited for next month, because for the first time ever; Red Hood and the Outlaws is getting an annual! A well deserved annual from both Lobdell and Tynion, that will focus on our Roy! It is an exciting time to be a hoodie. I would highly recommend this issue for newcomers, as well as dedicated RHTO fans. Til next month!!!
STORY: 4.5/5
ART: 3.5/5
SCORE: 4/5
(I really miss the half stars CV)
