Nightwing #78 Review

by Carlos R. on March 16, 2021

Nightwing #78 Cover Image
Written by: Tom Taylor
Art by: Bruno Redondo
Colors by: Adriano Lucas
Lettered by: Wes Abbott
Publisher: DC Comics

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I mean, you can never go wrong with a Tom Taylor book, but Nightwing is far from my favorite character in the DC universe and five pages in I knew this series would hold a spot on my holds list.

Taylor starts off the book with a flashback to Dick’s early days at Wayne Manor and I won’t give much away, but this scene was incredibly touching and does a fantastic job of setting up what motivates Dick to be such a compelling hero. The story moves forward to the present, with Nightwing back and ready to serve as Blüdhaven’s protector.

There’s some background info that would serve to understand some of what Dick’s going through, but otherwise this issue serves as a great jumping on point! And Taylor has set up a lot in this chapter with what’s around the corner for Nightwing. Though I enjoy the slower moments that help to understand his character, there’s enough action sequences to ramp up the book and build tension. The biggest reason I’m not big on Nightwing is because he’s always felt like the golden boy, which he is and there are some over the top moments here that establish that, but they feel natural and didn’t make my eyes roll. The dialogue is perfect, Blockbuster is as intimidating as ever and the new mayor of Blüdhaven is intriguing and I’m looking forward to her interactions with Dick.

The use of light, the striking colors, brilliant expressions, and detailed backgrounds make this book such a pleasure to look at. It’s soft and bright and hopeful, not throughout the whole book, cause there are some very messed up moments. But man, oh man, this issue was a joy to flip through. Like I just went back to look at young Barbara and her facial expression are so incredibly spot on! The puppy scene is designed so well, the sound effect fills the panel, but the chaotic laughter framing it highlights the cruelty of the scene.

This issue is a great jumping on point and just a fantastic comic. There’s tons to love here and if you’re going to pick up one book this week, make it Nightwing #78.
 

Our Score:

10/10

A Look Inside