Before Watchmen: Minutemen #2 Review


Does this prequel series continue the quality of last month’s release?  Read on to find out.

The official description from DC:

“This isn’t a book. It’s a bloody confession!”

Plus, a new CRIMSON CORSAIR backup feature from writer LEN WEIN and artist JOHN HIGGINS!

With the second issue in this mini-series, I am now convinced that this is my favorite title in the Before Watchmen line-up.  The shear depths it goes to imitate and accentuate the style of the series it prequels is astounding.  It’s not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but with each page the engaging experience and attention to detail yield a wealth of knowledge that easily makes this comic book a must buy.

Darwyn Cooke does a wonderful job scripting a story that feels both real and nostalgic.  It may be told by Hollis Mason, but this narrative is about the moral dilemmas the original generation of heroes had to face.  The atmosphere conveyed therein brings so many layers to these already established characters, that this book feels like a natural companion to Watchmen.

The art in this comic book is just as important as the words on the page, and thankfully Darwyn Cooke is handling that job too.  This stylized nature of the piece captures a dynamic look that fits this first generation of heroes perfectly.  The thick lines accompanied by simple and clean features, inform a world that does not need to be over burdened with modern style or sensibilities.

The back-up story revolving around the Crimson Corsair continues.  The art done by John Higgins is as exceptional as it’s been, while the writing by Len Wein is solid.  My only gripe with this story, is the fact that because of the way in which DC decided to present it, it’s been spread very thin.  But beyond that, it’s a good but brief read that will entertain readers if they choose to peruse it.

Whether you’re for or against the whole idea of Before Watchmen, this is a comic book worth buying.  Highly recommended.

4.5/5

S#!T Talking Central