Sideways #1 Fun and Games
Sideways is the third new title launched from DC's New Age of Superheroes imprint, but arguably the best title thus far from this new line of books. Kenneth Rocafort’s art alone is enough to sell the issue but with Justin Jordan and Dan DiDio on scripts and dialogue together it makes this such a lighthearted read. Where Damage and The Silencer had some small ties to the overall Metal storyline, Sideways’ whole origin is a byproduct from the events of Metal #1.
Rocafort's art is without a doubt the selling point of this issue, his way of fitting so much detail in every page is par for the course. The panel layout coupled perfectly with Sideways’ ability to port from one area to the next fully utilizing Rocafort's signature style while giving the titular character his own unique look as well. The art will initially draw in readers while the lighthearted story will keep them coming back for more.
Sideways is a simple tale of a teenager with new powers trying to find his place in the world as a hero. Delving into his relationship with friends and his overprotective mother, to the use of social media as a tool to promote being a hero, this issue is wholesome comic book fun and pure eye candy. Dan Brown’s colors gives Sideways a refreshing color pallet adding so much to Rocafort's already detailed pencils. Even a mundane scene such as a friend's bedroom is made masterpiece with Rocafort's intricate pencils and Brown's specific color pallet.
When delving into Sideways’ origin, the book loses no steam being a very quick read doing a great job of setting up the titular character and his ensemble cast surrounding him. Rocafort's art will keep readers interested for months to come while the story develops interest further with each issue.
As an ominous figure appears at the end of the issue, along with the nature of Sideways’ powers, this title is going to take readers to strange and beautiful places. Grant Morrison is scheduled to help with future issues on the title, if that wasn't telling already, this title is going to continue to get more interesting as the months go on. DC's New Age of Superheroes is kicking off to a great start, Sideways shows how to introduce a new character organically while keeping the story interesting and displaying how artists truly “move the needle.”
