Comic Review: Action Comics #1005

Action Comics #1005

DC Comics

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis

Artist: Ryan Sook

So far, Brian Michael Bendis’ Action Comics run has felt grounded compared to the rest of his DC titles. While Superman centers on – Well, Superman, Action Comics focuses on the daily lives of the those in Metropolis. The Daily Planet feels full of life, which is something that I haven’t seen in a while. Of course, this has resulted in much slower storytelling, and in some cases, Action Comics has been a bit too slow. Still, the emphasis on the characters is much appreciated.

Action Comics #1005 opens with a shady scene featuring the Hero Dial. I’ve always been a fan of Dial H for H.E.R.O, so it’s a fun little moment that brings a sense of enchantment to the reader. This isn’t the only fun appearance either, with a few DC fan favorites showing up throughout the issue. All of these cameos are certainly delightful to see, but none of them seem to have any real impact on the story just yet. Everyone wants to know about the Red Cloud, but none of these characters have any leads that help themselves or the reader understand what’s happening.

As always, Bendis ensures that this issue is dialogue-heavy. While I’d still say that this issue is too wordy, the dialogue does manage to push the narrative forward. It feels like more happens in this issue than the rest of the run combined. The big reveal at the end of the issue does feel underwhelming because, despite all of the dialogue, the lack of actual character development makes the finale kind of a headscratcher.

At least the action in the issue is exciting. The opening is thrilling with appropriate build up, and the final battle is fast paced impressively drawn. While Clark Kent has too much dialogue, Superman seems to say just enough to make for a fine battle against The Red Cloud.

I haven’t been a big fan of Ryan Sook throughout this run, particularly due to the way the characters appear. They just don’t look like themselves all the time, and the expressions are simply inconsistent. The final action scene allows the for the creative team to shine. Sook and colorist Brad Anderson allow for energy to flow throughout the pages. The colors, especially on the last few pages, are strong with exciting reds and blues that speed up the movement.

Despite some hiccups in pacing and an underwhelming reveal, Action Comics #1005 is the strongest issue of Bendis’ run so far.