Part of the appeal of using movie characters in comics is the ability to take chances a $120 million movie won’t allow. So far, the Hammerhead series has been a delight as it has delivered a more action oriented Bond that defies tropes (while admittedly still using them). We take a look at issue #3 to answer the question: is it good?
James Bond: Hammerhead #3 (Dynamite Entertainment)
So what’s it about? The summary reads:
After a massacre in Dubai, 007 closes in on the mysterious Kraken. But while investigating a mercenary safehouse in Yemen, Bond discovers the most advanced Q-Branch technology can sometimes prove less an asset than a liability. And a weapon is only as lethal as the man who wields it…
Why does this book matter?
If you’re a fan of the Bond car and its historic run in the films with new gadgets and gizmos you must read this book. I’ll say no more to avoid spoilers, but man, they do something in this issue that’s a lot of fun.
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
Bond babe. Check!
This issue opens where the last left off, with Bond and the Bond babe arriving from their sexy plane ride. Once their scene ends it’s all about the car with Bond acquiring one for his latest mission. Andy Diggle delivers some spy action that’s tense which also makes Bond look sly and professional. Once again, Bond is pretty vicious and we get some cold blooded murder in this issue. It’s nice to see they aren’t sugar coating the character nor making him drop silly one liners every chance he gets.
The rest of the issue involves a surprise that plays with the Bond car. I’ll say no more to avoid spoilers, but it’s a scene that I don’t think we’ve seen before in James Bond films you won’t want to miss.
Artist Luca Casalanguida makes these car scenes look cool, but also clear. You’ll never have any doubt what’s happening or why and they’re quite action packed. This issue has a muddier look–most likely to give it a darker tone–but you can’t deny Casalanguida can draw a good Bond babe and an even better looking Bond.
It can’t be perfect can it?
When you shake this issue out, it ends up being a rather quick read. It’s a reminder that a decompressed issue like this is probably best read in the collected format. This issue delivers some fun action and a few details to progress the plot, but don’t expect a long read by any means.
Bond car. Check!
Is It Good?
Hammerhead offers one of the most badass version of Bond yet while also delivering some new wrinkles to series. Check this series out if you love action!
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