Midnighter vs. Hell itself, who ya got? We review as Midnighter literally gets himself ready to fist fight Neron. It’s gonna be good. Or is it?!
Midnighter and Apollo #5 (DC Comics)
So what’s it about? The summary reads:
Midnighter always knew that one day he would have to face the Devil himself to answer for all the people he’s killed here on Earth…and that day is today! It’s a bare-knuckle brawl between Midnighter and Neron for the soul of Apollo!
Why does this book matter?
It has been all building towards this as Midnighter must fight Neron (see more about him in the image below) for the love of his life Apollo. Tricky thing is, Midnighter doesn’t have his fight computer in Hell so it’s a tricky battle indeed.
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
Watch where you step dude!
First and foremost the art by Fernando Blanco is a blessing in this issue and that’s saying something since this takes place in Hell. Midnighter does not disappoint–from every expression, punch, and kick he’s a total badass in this one. There are so many gorgeous pages, like Midnighter covered in blood and ready for more punching his way through nine panel layouts, or Apollo screaming to get out of his cage. The battle is hard fought, well choreographed, and exciting to the very end. One of the joys of Midnighter is seeing him relish the brutality he inflicts on enemies and you see plenty of that here. You also see plenty of pain. Blanco makes you feel it via gushing blood and eyes popping out of heads!
Colors by Romulo Fajardo Jr. are also on point, from the dripping blood looking complex as hell to the yellow glow of Midnighter’s secret weapon. Apollo’s angelic form is also intriguing in its yellow glow.
Aside from the glorious fight, writer Steve Orlando delivers a few surprises that play with your expectations. I never saw the story going the way it does and while it extends the conclusion a tad it’s going to be fun to see how these two can escape Hell itself. Neron continues to be a surprise as well as he’s at once evil, but cocky about it. He’s the perfect villain for Midnighter to kick the teeth out of. Orlando was holding back on what the magical candle will do and it doesn’t disappoint.
It can’t be perfect can it?
The fight is glorious and great, though aside from it there isn’t much else to this issue. It’s a quick battle with basically two bits of dialogue which makes the experience run rather fast. That said, the art is detailed and very good about making the action fluid and easy to follow.
Love that look he gives him.
Is It Good?
If you like fight comics this is the best on the stands this week and possibly this month. Midnighter takes a beating, but you gotta see the other guy!
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