
Gail Simone (writer), Carlos Rodriguez (artist), Jason Wright (colorist)
Thoughts before the review:
Secret Six, as indicated by the IGN quote on the cover of #8, is best described as “wonderfully wicked” and “hilariously twisted.” And, on the whole, is an enjoyably decadent ride through the world of six pay-for-hire villains.
Story :
After the carnage in Gotham City, the Six are taking it easy in between jobs; and what better way to do it than a night on the town? Jeannette’s interest in Deadshot hasn’t simmered (despite being shot by him), and Scandal runs into an old *ahem* acquaintance while picking up some groceries for Jeannette, which sets up the most entertaining double-date of villains you’ve ever seen.
What’s Good:
Losing Nicola Scott is a minor travesty, but gaining Carlos Rodriguez ensured that the transition was smooth, and overall attitude of Secret Six stays the same. The art itself is realistic yet playful, and doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Once again, Gail Simone astounds by spinning a clever, witty tale out of a could-be-lame set-up. I’d love to see more of Insignificus. The scene at the beginning with Scandal at the supermarket is hysterical, and showcases her ability to write off-the-wall characters, much in the way that she gets to strut her stuff with Ragdoll’s wickedly funny dialogue.
Lastly, the “Tiny Six” mini-story is pure goodness. I won’t say anything else.
What’s Bad:
Rodriguez has a decidedly more realistic flair to his art. It’s ironic that I should be decrying this by saying, “No! Realism is a horrible, horrible thing!” Given that I love artists who can bring such incredible detail to their work… But comparing Rodriguez to Palmiotti and Scott, I feel that Scott’s art was the best fit for the tone of the series– realistic, but slightly goofy and askew.
It depends on the upcoming storyline, but I think that Rodriguez will definitely put a different spin on Secret Six, and if it plays to his strengths (the kind of gritty violence we see throughout the issue looks great), then he should definitely get more of a chance to shine. Jason Wright adjusts his palate accordingly, and does an excellent job of highlighting Rodriguez’s artistic perspective.
Conclusion: I wish I went on a double date like that.
Grade : B+
-Brian Lynch
Filed under: Uncategorized | Tagged: Carlos Rodriguez, DC, DC Comics, Gail Simone, Jason Wright, Nicola Scott, Secret Six, Secret Six #8 Review, Secret Six Review, Tiny Six
Thank you for the kind words, and I’m very glad you enjoyed the issue!
One small clerical note…Nicola Scott is still the regular penciler for the book. We just took one issue to give her a break between big arcs. She’s phenomenally professional and probably didn’t NEED it, but it helps take a bit of the pressure off for everyone.
So she’s back next issue!
Thanks again, hope you continue to like the book,
Gail
Hi Gail!
Thanks for taking the time to stop by. As a reviewer and a fan, I really, really appreciate it.
I mean that. I’m not just saying it out of professional courtesy, or because I’m secretly hyperventilating on this end (I might be), but it’s a genuine thank-you for stopping by our little corner of the internet.
I actually didn’t know that it was just a breather for Nicola Scott – although I am very happy that she’s coming back, I’m also glad that I got the opportunity to see another talented artist put their own spin on Secret Six. As mentioned, I think Carlos is fantastic, and he did a great job.
Please, continue the great work, and give my regards to the Secret Six team. It’s consistently been one of my favorite DC books for good reason.
[...] Simone is, without doubt, one of the best writers in comics today. Much in the same vein as Secret Six #8, which featured Deadshot, Scandal, and Jeanette on a double-date that dealt as much with personal [...]