The anticipation for a John Wick Comic book was palpable, especially for fans deeply invested in the cinematic universe. However, the reality of John Wick #2 from Dynamite Entertainment leaves much to be desired, particularly in its visual execution. While the story offers a passable time-killer, the artwork and setting portrayal severely detract from the overall experience, failing to capture the essence that makes the John Wick franchise so compelling. This review delves into the shortcomings of this comic, focusing on why it misses the mark for fans expecting a visual treat akin to the films.
One of the most glaring issues is the flat and uninspired artwork. Unlike the dynamic and visually striking movies, the comic panels feel static and lack depth. The color palette choices are uninspired, failing to create any sense of atmosphere or visual intrigue. In a medium where visual storytelling is paramount, the artwork in this John Wick comic falls significantly short. Readers hoping for artwork that leaps off the page with the same energy as the films will be sorely disappointed. The promise of cinematic action sequences is lost in translation, leaving the action feeling clunky and less impactful than it could be.
Adding to the disappointment is the setting of El Paso, Texas, which, despite the reviewer’s personal connection and excitement, feels utterly generic and devoid of authenticity. The comic’s depiction of El Paso lacks any of the distinctive flavor one would expect from a city on the US-Mexico border. Instead of capturing the unique desert landscape and Hispanic cultural influences, the setting comes across as a bland, Anywhere, USA. The reviewer, familiar with El Paso, points out specific inaccuracies like the presence of wooden fences and random patches of grass in areas where concrete and chain link fences are far more common. This disconnect between the real El Paso and its comic book representation is jarring and diminishes the reading experience. For a story that ostensibly leverages the location, the lack of attention to detail in portraying El Paso is a significant misstep.
Even the antagonists, a gang referred to as “the Bills,” feel underdeveloped and uninspired. The names Pecos, Buffalo, and Billy, seem like a weak attempt at a thematic naming convention, particularly for a setting in Texas. The reviewer points out the missed opportunity to fully commit to the gag or develop these characters beyond their simplistic names. This lack of creativity extends beyond character names and permeates the overall artistic direction of the John Wick comic.
While the story itself is described as “mediocre at best,” it’s the subpar art that truly draws the most criticism. The narrative might offer a passable distraction, but it is heavily overshadowed by the consistently underwhelming visuals. This imbalance is frustrating, especially for a franchise known for its stylish action and strong visual identity. The reviewer expresses a sense of betrayal, feeling that the comic relies on the John Wick brand name to sell copies, rather than prioritizing quality and capturing the essence of the source material. The cover art, ironically, is praised for its intriguing and suspenseful colors, a stark contrast to the flat and lifeless artwork found within the comic’s pages. This disparity further highlights the missed potential and the overall cheap feel of the visual presentation.
In conclusion, John Wick #2 comic book is a letdown, primarily due to its disappointing artwork and inauthentic portrayal of its El Paso setting. While the story is not entirely without merit, it is ultimately overshadowed by the visual shortcomings. For dedicated John Wick fans seeking to expand their engagement with the universe, this comic may serve as a mild time-killer. However, for those expecting a visually compelling experience that lives up to the cinematic standards of the films, it is advisable to approach with caution. Perhaps waiting for a trade paperback or checking it out from a library would be a more prudent approach before committing to a purchase. There is a glimmer of hope for future issues to improve, but based on this initial offering, significant improvements are needed to make this John Wick comic a worthwhile addition to the franchise.
