For Whom the Bat Tolls
I’ve read this issue a few times now as I’m struggling to figure out where I stand in regards to its effect on me. I want to like this story, and some parts of me feel like I do. But for some unknown reason I just can’t love it as much as I should.
I’ve mentioned before my affection for Scott Snyder’s storytelling and structuring but I feel maybe he shines when he has a smaller scope to deal with. His singular swamp thing run, his great Court/City of owls run and even his non-superhero stuff, like American Vampire or Wytches are fantastic but deal with character in a more singular focus or at least less of a universe altering scale. So, when it comes to Metal, I worry that his story is too large in scale or even just narrative length to fit into 6 to 7 issues. His added use of many varying characters throughout the DC universe clutter the panels as more and more characters appear (sometimes nonsensically) via rushed exposition. This could give this comic a fast-paced feel that most people felt it needed but for me, it now just feels rushed. Maybe its an homage to older styled comics where greater explanation was never really needed and heroes were there when they needed to be there? But if that was the case then this comic has a serious identity crisis (pun intended).
Now as for the story itself, I am again, liking where its heading, I just wish it would get there sooner with some more explanation. I understand the fear of the unknown but at this point the unknown isn’t as scary as it seems and if there is no winning at all for the heroes, why would I be concerned if they even try? Forced odd couple teams up are now what the next issues are going to consist of and that’s something everyone can enjoy. I just hope that more substance is given when it comes to the overall villain, because without depth and a full understanding of how powerful he/she is, I find the plight less compelling.
The art, as always was great from Capullo and it was good to see many heroes drawn in his unique style but if anyone knows who that mystery Batman is in the bar just standing all mysteriously with a symbol on his chest (the same one above Metropolis), please tell me cause that’s something I need to know. I love it, but I’m not IN love with it, but hey these guys are always worth a read and I’m still hooked!