New Suicide Squad #4 Review

I’m ok with the fact that this is an action book. I think a fast paced, action filled narrative is a smart approach to Suicide Squad. Clearly, you will sacrifice some of the emotional depth that helps ground stories, but if the action is smart and done well, then it will still be entertaining. Unfortunately, here, the action isn’t done well. More than half of the book is of Harley and Black Manta taking out Russian soldiers, and eventually fighting Deathstroke… and all of it looks cheesy. It’s over-the-top, unrealistic, cartoony action. And to be clear, the words “suicide squad” and “cartoony action” should not be in the same sentence. Imagine watching a Batman film where all of the action scenes haven’t been completely choreographed, and are filmed by stuntmen that aren’t trained. That’s what this book looks like! And for a book that relies so heavily on action, that’s a big problem.

I then realized that the action is also why I’ve had so much trouble reviewing the past two issues. Unless I provide a play by play of assault tactics, there’s not really much to talk about. I mean, I could take the time to write out the sequences (probably in a more entertaining fashion than Hunter draws it), but that would defeat the purpose of buying the book. But I don’t want to say that the book itself is bad, because I think it is actually decent. Hunter’s art just destroys what should be the best part of each issue.

The pacing is also a slight problem. Essentially everything that has happened in four issues (over five months), has all taken place within 24 hours in the story. This is going to create a better read once the arc is collected in a trade, and will fix some of my frustrations. But reading an issue each month really kills the momentum. Factor in the Waller/ Sage storyline that is more annoying than interesting, and an average plot with poor characterization, and you find yourself wondering what the difference is between Suicide Squad and New Suicide Squad. That’s never a good sign so early into the creative change.

Recommended if:

You want to see Deathstroke finally do something.
You love reading banter between Deadshot and Deathstroke.
You wonder what it would look like if your nephew drew a comic book.

Overall: I’m not providing a “good” and “bad” section, because most of what is available to call attention to without ruining any plot points in this story are listed above. If you’re looking for an average adventure with “familiar” characters, then go ahead and pick up the issue. I’m warning you though, the art is going to leave you disappointed and craving something better.


Get full review from Batman News here

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