In this chapter of Suicide Squad, Amanda Waller assigns a new field leader!
I’m going to be honest with you… Not much happens in this issue. If you were hoping to jump into the aftermath of Flag’s sacrifice, and ramrod head-first into that drama, then curb those expectations. If you were expecting more high-octane action, then you should curb those expectations as well. This is strictly an issue where Waller evaluates her team to determine who should become the new field leader… and it’s damn good!
Despite everything that’s “lacking,” I have no doubt that Williams made the right call by taking a moment to let the characters breathe a bit before jumping into the next mission. I also want to stress that a lack of progression doesn’t mean that the issue isn’t entertaining. Each of these characters are colorful enough that they can easily hold your attention for a single issue, and viewing each of their perspectives pertaining to leading the Squad is fascinating.
The overall tone and approach of this issue is similar to the back-up stories that filled the first two arcs of Suicide Squad. Each character is gifted with their own scene (or perhaps two) so they can make their case for why they should or shouldn’t be the leader. Every character stands out here, but the most impactful scenes – in my opinion – come from Katana and Deadshot. There’s also some terrific moments featuring Killer Croc and June Moon, but their story focuses on their budding relationship rather than having the two bid for leadership. I didn’t expect it, but I definitely enjoyed it!
I wish I could say that there are nice moments remembering Flag, but there aren’t. This is strictly business, and everyone is moving on… With the exception of Harley, but she’s experiencing more of a regression in sanity than depression or sadness – something that is sure to play out over the next few months.
By the end of the issue, Waller does, in fact, assign a new leader. Depending on your perspective, it could be a shocking decision, but I feel most people will see it coming. As soon as that decision is made though, it’s back to business as Waller gives the Squad their next mission – one that we’ll all be anxious to sink our teeth into.
The Art: The best aspect of this issue is Sejic’s art! I mean, his work is absolutely beautiful. I found myself taking screenshot after screenshot because there were so many panels/ pages I wanted to include in the review. I can say with certainty, that I don’t think Suicide Squad has ever looked this good! And you have to remember, I’m a huge fanboy of Rob Williams, so it’s not every day that I’ll praise an artist above his script… but that is definitely the case here! Literally… Every. Single. Panel. Is. FLAWLESS. Sejic just might be one of my favorite new artists!
Breakdowns for this issue can be found in the spoiler tag.
The Good:
Characterization. The reason this issue is as successful as it is (aside from Sejic’s art), is strictly due to Williams’ understanding and ability to write these characters. He knows how to make the most out of the smallest moments, and he does that here. If any character comes off as “weak,” it might have to be Harley or Boomerang, but only because they didn’t stand out as much as the others. I would love to see Deadshot and Katana get more of a gripping story arc – something that appears to be teased for both.
The teased mission. They’re (finally) going after The People! This doesn’t bode well for Boomerang, and I’m sure we’re going to start seeing Harley unravel, Katana question her purpose with the Squad, and Deadshot entertain another offer. There’s bound to be more Kill-chantress as well!
The Bad:
Harley Quinn becomes the field leader. This feels less like a creative decision, and more like an editorial decision made strictly to drive sales. I can already see the media updates, “Harley Quinn becomes the new leader of the Suicide Squad.” Williams did a decent job of trying to justify this, but I don’t fully believe it. Deadshot convinced Waller that it was Harley that brought everyone together to go after Rustam… but that was a different Harley. That Harley was reforming, and was also driven to save Flag because of her growing fondness for him. Harley isn’t in that mindset anymore, and Waller knows that.
Recommended If:
- You enjoyed the back-ups that supported the first two arcs of Suicide Squad.
- You want to learn who is picked as the new field leader.
- Sejic… That’s all.
Overall: If there’s one thing that’s certain, you can always count on Suicide Squad for an entertaining read. Whether it be full of action, character focused, or a little wacky, Williams is sure to deliver. Add to that guarantee by enhancing Williams’ script with art as beautiful as Sejic’s and you’re blessed with an amazing gift! Go get this issue! If you haven’t been reading Suicide Squad, I highly recommend catching up. If you don’t have the time or funds to catch up, this could be a decent starting point. Either way, this is a book you need to be reading!
SCORE: 8.5/10
