Jason Bourne is considered one of the best spy movie franchises because it brings a lot of fast paced action, strong characters, and pulse pounding intrigue. Nightwing is bringing a lot of the same concepts to the table lately, but how is issue #3? Is it good?
Nightwing #3 (DC Comics)
So what’s it about? The DC summary reads:
“Better than Batman” part three! Nightwing and Raptor have become the pride of the Parliament of Owls, successfully completing missions for them across the globe—but Batgirl is not happy. Can she convince Nightwing he’s gone too far, or has he fallen too far under Raptor’s influence?
Why does this book matter?
Writer Tim Seeley took over Nightwing and immediately reminded us the character is a little bit different than the rest of Batman’s supporting characters. That little bit has made him a world traveler who needs to take down one of the most powerful forces in Gotham once and for all. He introduced a character named Raptor and reminded us Batgirl and Nightwing are very much a thing. A lot to love!
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
Rut row.
This issue opens with a moment that happens later to shock the readers and then quickly shows us the “then” to make us want to see how it all plays out. Raptor and Nightwing are going to break into a labyrinthine building–the captions explain it all beautifully and Seeley will make you want these characters to explore it right away. Instead though, Batgirl makes an introduction and her dynamic with Nightwing instantly reminds us their chemistry is real and compelling.
From there we get a fantastic bit of montage as the characters face different threats in the labyrinth. Artist Javier Fernandez makes every trap door and flame room look and feel unique. He really brings an adventurous feel to the proceedings that’s a lot of fun. The characters are rendered quite well too, especially Raptor with his costume and gauntlets. Environments look great too with lots of detail and plenty of atmosphere to go around. There’s one panel of Nightwing and Batgirl in total shock that is instantly iconic and it’s up there with Roy Harper doing heroin.
It can’t be perfect can it?
I’m not exactly sure what the cliffhanger has in store and more could have been done to make that clear.
Ouch!
Is It Good?
Exciting action, good character work, well written captions, detailed art…is there anything more you could ask for? Nightwing is exceptional.
