REVIEW: Ninjak #2

When you read a story that Matt Kindt writes, be sure to read every word in the comic, from the cover to the last page. Kindt finds so many ways to add details creatively to a story that you always have to be on your toes. Ninjak #2 is no exception. The book begins with a page detailing the specifications of Ninjak’s gauntlet. Each aspect of the gauntlet that aids Ninjak in his missions is used to illustrate the weaknesses he has in everyday life. One page in, and we know how deadly and screwed up Ninjak is.

Just as Kindt uses every tool at his disposal to build the story and characters in Ninjak, Clay Mann’s art constantly keeps us on our toes. Along with Ulises Arreola’s amazing colors, the beauty of Mann’s art lulls you into a sense of security until impending violence arrives. Then he breaks the boundaries of the panels, tying together past and present as we wonder how Colin will overcome his challenge.

Just as in the first issue a movie is used to tie Colin’s childhood with the present, this issue uses a similar method to transition in the form of a three page segment from a children’s book that brings a change in writing style from Kindt and art style from Mann. These segments from Colin’s youth keep us from getting lost in the sexy and exciting lifestyle of a spy and continue to remind us of how the vulnerabilities of his past have created scars that shape who he is in the present.

As if all this isn’t enough, each issue is wrapped up by a story from Colin’s early spy days, illustrated by Butch Guice. Matt Kindt keeps pace with the change in art style and the resulting story has a very crime noir feel to it. But don’t think this story is merely a story. As with everything Kindt does, it serves a purpose, juxtaposing Colin’s current adversary, Roku, with a target from his past.

Altogether, this book is amazing. Mann and Guice’s art is absolutely top notch. Kindt’s writing adapts to the changes in style throughout the book. Arreola’s colors add to the blazing beauty. There is subtext all over the place. You could read this book repeatedly and continue to gain more from each read. Which is a good thing, considering how hard it will be to have to wait a month for the next issue. So start reading, and when your bleary eyes can take no more, let the pretty pictures soothe you until the next issue arrives.

Issue information

Written by MATT KINDT
Art by CLAY MANN with BUTCH GUICE
Cover A by LEWIS LAROSA (FEB151651)
Cover B by DAVE JOHNSON (FEB151652)
Cover C by PIA GUERRA (FEB151653)
Variant Cover by RAUL ALLEN (FEB151654)
Variant Cover by DAS PASTORAS (FEB151655)