Nightwing #1

By Tim Seeley, Javier Fernandez, and Chris Sotomayor.

Seeley really takes the time to set up the world in this issue and establish where everyone stands in regards to Dick Grayson. With Dick having just returned to what he considers normal life, it’s extremely important to know the world around him so we understand the choices he makes as we move forward in the series. Seeley seems to be commenting on both Dick and his identity as Nightwing with regards to his place in the DC Universe.

Dick is told by the Parliament of Owls that he should have left his identity as Nightwing behind by now. Batman is more than happy to bankroll his former student for as long as he needs and while that’s nice, it just keeps Dick on the same mission he has always been on. Barbra wants to see her friemd just be Dick Grayson after he went through hell to get his identity back. All of theses are things that fans of the character are probably thinking as well going into this new series. Many of those same fans are possibly hesitant to put faith in a new creative team (though Seeley was co-writer of the prior series Grayson with Tom King) and the direction that they want to take the book. It seems that Seeley has decided not to just give us an outright answer to who and what Dick wants to be. Instead Seeley established a solid base for the book that should springboard off into what are hopefully many enjoyable story arcs. Seeley really brings wit and fun to Dicks dialogue and is able to keep conversations moving while also bringing a unique voice to every character that comes into play. Seeley makes really good use of Dicks narration not only to give insight into our lead character’s thoughts throughout, but also uses it to add fun stingers and a little extra wpark to conversations.

The art and storytelling blend perfectly and it can really be seen through the facial expressions and body language of the characters. On their faces and even through the multitude of masks, the characters naturally express emotion. Dick’s body language also changes depending on who he is talking to. All of that coupled with the well written dialogue makes the situations and conversations feel and look genuine. Fernandez’s pencils and Sotomayor’s colors blend perfectly to create vibrant and beautiful scenes. There are several pages where both Nightwing and members of the Bat-Family are moving or flying through the air. The blue on Nightwing’s suit always stands out separating him Robin’s bright red and green or Batgirl’s purple and yellow. All of the colors that should be highlighted are, including lighting effects from passing cars and street lights. Combat looks fluid and carries weight with each kick and punch. The pain is also felt through color changes and filters of harsh reds.

Over all the art is clean, vibrant, and kinetic. The writing is smart, witty and has depth of plot. All of theses things make Nightwing #1 an amazing comic and a really good start. The creative team seems to where they want to go and how they want to get there, while leaving just enough questions to keep readers coming back for the next issue. Nightwing made an excellent first impression during its Rebirth special and keeps that feeling rolling well through its first issue. There is little doubt that this is going to be on the top of reading lists as this new story unfolds.