Dark Nights: Metal – Deluxe Edition Review

Dark Nights: Metal – Deluxe Edition Review

Writers: Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV
Pencillers: Greg Capullo, Mikel Janín, Alvaro Martinez
Inkers: Jonathan Glapion, Mikel Janín, Raul Fernandez
Colorists: FCO Plascencia, June Chung, Brad Anderson
Leterrer: Steve Wands
Publisher: DC Comics

Review by Cory Webber

Dark Nights: Metal – Deluxe Edition is the hardcover collection of DC’s most recent event. The Dark Knight has uncovered one of the lost mysteries of the universe…one that could destroy the very fabric of the DC Universe. The dark corners of reality that have never been seen till now. The Dark Multiverse is revealed in all its devastating danger—and the threats it contains are coming for the DC Universe. Collects DARK NIGHTS: METAL #1-6.

Dark Nights: Metal is what a comic book event should be. It has over-the-top action, crazy ideas and, most importantly, great execution. Because Snyder and Capullo worked so well together on their best-selling New 52 run, they were able to hit the ground running. Most importantly, though, Snyder kept the pacing at a breakneck speed without sacrificing character or plot development.

Now, I was afraid I would be lost since I’m not a diehard, lifelong DC reader. However, I found that Snyder did an excellent job of not keeping me in the dark (pun intended). As a result, I was able to follow along and enjoy the crazy, frenetic ride.

The plot, which was tight, was not the main focus for me. It was the crazy fun concept of the Dark multiverse, and the many evil versions of Batman that inhabited it. This book is crazy! I mean, it has a Joker-ized version of Batman with rabid Robins on leashes, for heaven’s sake!

Snyder really nailed all the characters. His depictions of characters I’m familiar with were spot on. Furthermore, there were several characters I was not familiar with of which I now want to go and read about. So, um, thanks for that, Snyder…my wallet curses your name!

Capullo’s art gives life and action to Snyder’s most wildest machinations. The dark multiverse character designs were just fantastic, especially the dark Batmen and the dark Hawkman. Also, the colors were just mesmerizing. The bright neon colors splashed brightly against the dark, drab atmosphere, almost as if they were trying to impose optimism and hope over the pessimistic, bleak canvas of the Dark multiverse.

Verdict: Buy it!

I understand if you are wary of comic events. However, Dark Nights: Metal is an exercise in the correct application of what a comic event should be. It is fun, big and crazy, yet self-contained. Meaning, you can read only the main event and not feel beholden to reading a bajillion tie-in issues.