What I'm Reading: The Web
Last month saw the release of The Web #1, and I've got to say, between backstory-loaded, multiverse-spanning events, and the Batman mythos split between five or six ongoing titles, it's nice to see a fresh, independent face on the shelf. Well, not exactly new, as The Web proves to be a reboot of some old hero from the forgotten archives of Archie comics. But John Raymond's newest incarnation is seeped in a novelty that just might vie for a more long-term position in the DC continuity.
Angela Robinson is dutied with the writing, a change of pace from her queer-centric work on TV's The L Word, though she ably handles the transition; The first issue dismisses the simplistic origin story and dives headfirst into the action and crime drama. Truth is, even if you haven't read the character's negligible introductory Red Circle issue, there's not much to tell. John Raymond is a Bruce Wayne reimagined for the internet age, with his billionaire-backed vigilantism encouraged by the death of an altruistic family member. Citizens in peril can send their HELP! HELP! to summontheweb.com, to be processed by a supercomputer in Raymond's own batcave before he decides to set out for a night's fun. Robinson recognizes the gimmicky nature of this feature and instead opts for a more dynamic usage of The Web's defining power, using the magic of the internet to inform the police of a captured criminal via viral video.
In a single issue, there's drug-dealing, a love-triangle, and a crippled villainous mastermind. The succeeding Hangman story features an interesting balance, offering a grit that The Web refuses to tread upon in his dealings with the criminal underbelly. Unfortunately, the handful of pages serves mostly as exposition and the apparent hook makes a feeble arrival in the last three panels. It's difficult to gauge how interesting the story will become when developed.
Artwise, Roger Robinson provides adequate pencilwork, completely appropriate for both the laserbeam action sequences and whitewashed family meetings, but lacking the luster that would otherwise animate the emotionally engaging sequences.
Fortunately, the team responsible for Reign In Hell truly bring a face to The Hangman, filling their limited panels with a darkness reflexive of the subject matter and enshrouding him in a Spawn-like mysticism.
If the first issue is any indication of the action yet to come, Robinson's first foray into comics will be something to look forward to every month. The Web #2 is in stores today, be sure to hop on before the series' momentum really gets it rolling.
Rubber Justice
Posted to Comics on 28 October 2009
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