Suicide Squad #2 Review

Written by: Tom Taylor
Art by: Bruno Redondo
Colors by: Adriano Lucas
Lettered by: Wes Abbott
Published by: DC Comics

This book has gotten off to an absolutely great start, but the Squad themselves have started off shaky (to put it lightly). Can they cast aside their differences to become a team akin to the ’00, ’01, & ’02 Lakers, or will their squabbling cost them?

This is a great, action-packed series so far. And, the characters are being explored so that they're the focal point. The dynamic surrounding them is what drives this narrative. The in-fighting of the squad is a bigger problem than any enemy they may face. The explosive situation that brought together this new team doesn’t seem to be calming down anytime soon. In fact, this issue’s events drive home the point that matters are far from over. 

The opening flashforward with Floyd looking shocked immediately interested me. What could have a man like him so shook up? When we finally get back to the scene, not only is it written wonderfully, but it seems like the perfect road for this story to take. The stakes have risen and if this book had my curiosity before, it most definitely has my attention now. Also, the engaging character-focused moments, seen in both issues so far, are joined by thrilling action scenes. The Task Force aspect is on full display. That element is organically incorporated because of the team's new leader, Lok. He specifically wants to build a formidable Task Force and use them on missions that will help him make a name for himself. That may be what builds the dynamic so well. The two aspects of the comic, the action and the characters, aren’t just balanced by the writing, they're balanced by the narrative structure (both of which have been executed and crafted by Tom Taylor). While Lok wants all the missions and action, the members of Task Force X have their own motives. Things like Fin & Shark fighting, Osita still holding a grudge, a leader who doesn't care about "team morale" (he's no Phil Jackson), and the general rebellious nature of every member is what makes this a powder keg. And, the promise of an eventual explosion has me anticipating every issue.

The art in this book is fantastic. Bruno Redondo's illustration of the characters and their expressions add much to how well the story connects. His figures have a weight to them that makes them feel natural and not stiff. This then makes the action scenes look dynamic and interesting. The panel layouts continue to be a great aid in composing eye-catching shots. They are set up to show a lot of detail when needed or get close-up on expressive faces or to give a cinematic feeling to the comic. This book is just really fun to look at; it’s already beginning to be one I look forward to because of how top-notch the visuals are. And Adriano Lucas' colors are just as top-notch. A lot of detail is put into them and the palette has a grounded nature to it. There is an intricacy by the art team that gives the sense that nothing is being "phoned in". It is obvious that everyone behind this comic is giving their best work.

The second issue of the new Suicide Squad proves this comic is in good hands. Action, drama, mystery, this comic can seemingly do it all and do it well. The art is amazing with great expressions, wonderful linework and a cinematic quality that makes it feel like a Hollywood blockbuster. I can hardly wait for the next issue.