Publisher: DC Comics
Writer: Jeff Parker
Artists: Paul Pelletier & Netho Diaz
Release Date: 31st December 2013

Jeff Parker follows in the sizeable footsteps of Geoff Johns here, taking over the reigns of the rejuvenated, revitalised and undeniably “cool” Aquaman. The previous twenty-five issues have become pretty much the definitive Aquaman run – at least in my opinion – and Parker now has the exciting prospect of taking over the fully-realised world and well-developed mythology that Johns has left in his wake.

Obviously it’s a little early to start predicting just how Parker’s run is gong to pan out after just one issue, but so far he has shown a terrific understanding of the character as well as adding a few neat touches of his own, such as Mera and Arthur’s undeniably awesome “pressure launch”.  The political tensions continue to play out, and the relationship between the King and Queen of Atlantis still has the same dynamic spark to it that we’ve become accustomed to.

Yes, there’s the occasional line of dialogue that feels a little out of place in the Atlantean environment, but for the most part, Parker brings a steady hand to the proceedings and even manages to throw in the odd humorous moment along the way, something sorely needed by this book after the almost brutally serious tone of  “Death of a King”.  Helpfully, Paul Pelletier is still on board with the art, adding a sense of cohesiveness to the title in spite of the writing change, and flexing his impressive abilities throughout, particularly when it comes to the gargantuan Leviathan threat Arthur finds himself facing.  Pelletier shares pencilling duties with Netho Diaz, who manages to hold his own for the most part, the occasional awkward facial expression aside.

Overall, this issue serves as a great start to the “next” chapter of the New 52 Aquaman, and is a title I’m going to continue reading with considerable interest.  There’s always a sense of apprehension when a successful comic creator leaves a title, but thankfully, with Parker at the helm, Aquaman is undoubtedly going to be in safe hands moving forwards.

Rating: 8/10.

---

The writer of this piece was: Craig Neilson (aka Ceej)
Article Archive: Ceej Says