Hawkman #5 // Review
Another issue, and another exciting adventure for Carter Hall, alias Hawkman. This series is quickly proving itself a favorite among readers of the DC Universe. Each issue has played out like a swashbuckling epic. Robert Venditti has taken his place as one of the best action/adventure writers working today. Bryan Hitch continues to dazzle with incredible location and character designs, and pulls double duty on inking with Andrew Currie. Colorist Jeremiah Skipper impresses once again with a bright, new, colorful world on display. In his continued search for clues he has left himself through time and space, Carter Hall finds himself in the most unlikely of places with a very familiar face.
Transported to the Microverse, Carter finds himself reunited with his longtime friend Professor Ray Palmer, alias The Atom. Carter couldn’t have found a better guide to help him locate the clue he’s left himself and navigate the hostile environment of the mysterious Microverse.
Hawkman has become a must-read title, thanks to writer Robert Venditti. Thrusting Hawkman into the spotlight that has seemed to elude the character for decades could only be done with the right writer. Venditti has taken much of Hawkman’s storied past, and expanded it in many ways that have excited readers. With the inclusion of the Atom in this issue, Venditti has not only the makings of a great buddy storyline, but is also able to explore more of The Atom’s mythos. This is a great introduction to Ray Palmer and The Microverse for first time readers, as that realm has become more prominent lately yet is rarely explored. Venditti once again is able to display Carter’s gentle side in the deep friendship he and Ray share. There is a great moment of the friends trying to figure out a problem in front of a chalkboard. The dialogue between the two is very riveting, and makes what sounds like a boring scenario invigorating. Venditti does a great job of adding a supporting character that doesn’t take focus away from the main character. Hopefully, The Atom will continue to be a part of this series, as he is another character, like Hawkman, that hasn’t received his due credit.
Jeremiah Skipper’s colors really shine in this issue. The full beauty of The Microverse is on display, with a gorgeous pink skyline featuring multiple planets of varying hues and exotic-looking pink flora growing on the sides of rocky, indigo cliffs. Skipper certainly gets more of a chance to showcase his skills in this location, and the opportunity to give readers a good look at The Microverse, as it hasn’t been explored in this vivid of detail. The Atom’s costume is also a bright red and blue that is a nice contrast to the limited colors of Carter’s outfit.
The pencilwork that Bryan Hitch has displayed so far in this series has been nothing short of spectacular. He has helped make Carter’s travels through time and space all the more special by delivering fantastic characters and locations that really let readers know they aren’t in Kansas anymore. Hawkman’s penchant for violence is also on full display, with rippling muscles, a body covered in scars and scratches, and a sinister grin when he is locked in combat. Hitch also gives the readers a great look at Ray Palmer’s incredible lab he has built in The Microverse, something that has never been seen. Hitch also teams with Andrew Currie for the inkwork on this issue. Carter’s scruffy facial hair is really fleshed out with ink, as well as the pink flora that grows on the cliffside. They also highlight Carter’s body, helping to draw focus to his muscles, scars and body hair.
While there may be some minor change-ups to the creative team with Skipper taking over for Alex Sinclair, that hasn’t steered them off course from telling a unique and compelling story. They are taking Hawkman in bold, new, and exciting directions that have stuck a cord with readers. Wherever Carter ventures after his mission in The Microverse, it will no doubt leave readers excited for the journey ahead.
