We’re at the 1/3rd point of this story, and it already feels like vampire Elongated Man from the 1st issue of this series…bloated beyond comprehension. Let’s try to summarize what the plot is actually about and whether or not the pages dedicated to it are worth it.
Hey, Am I in Arkham Cause This Cell is Padded
For a series meant to last 12 issues, it makes sense to have multiple subplots, and DC vs. Vampires: World War V has several of them. The problem starts with the fact that not only are all these subplots constantly bleeding into each other (swear to God, that wasn’t a vampire pun), but I’m not even sure there’s a main plot at this point. Is it about finding Damian? Is it about the Miracle baby? Is it about Constantine’s memories? Is it about the truce between the humans and the vampires?
At least Constantine remains kinda funnyThis isn’t helped by the fact that the plot feels like it’s on blood thinners (ok, that one was intentional), as we reveal that vampire queen Barbara Gordon isn’t dead and someone who isn’t a vampire is making a deal with her. I have my suspicions as to who this is between the Mister Miracle subplot and the appearance of Metron, but for now, I’ll keep it to myself.
The sheer number of vampirized characters is also starting to irk me as it appears that every B-, C-, and D- list character in the DC Universe was turned into a vampire at this point. While there could be an appeal to seeing some of these as vampires, the fact that they look mostly the same as their usual counterparts suggests that Otto Schmidt couldn’t even care for some of them.
However, this issue shines when it comes to characterization…not something I ever thought I would say when it came to this series. The new Batman is unmasked in this issue and proceeds to provide a monologue that feels completely in character with how he usually acts to Damian Wayne. He even manages to nearly gaslight convince Damian to turn him so that they can rule together, only stopped by Green Lantern Alfred. It even makes sense as to why he would seek out vampirization, as this Batman has always cherished immortality.
Speaking of Damian, it’s interesting to see him humbled – a rare sight in any medium. But after being chased by Barbara’s followers, losing all of his supporters, and being caught in the worst custody struggle imaginable, he turns to the humans led by Green Arrow for aid. Unfortunately, his wildcard past has seemingly caught up to him as he seems to be more trouble than he’s worth to them.
You almost feel bad for him…and then you remember he let all those people die in #1Score: 6.5/10
Backup: Keep the Message, Part 1
Hey, it’s nice to see that the backups from All Out War weren’t completely forgotten. And we get a continuation of the Black Lightning one (a personal favorite) as he continues to search for his family, following a message that is most likely a trap. It’s a great character piece on Jefferson Pierce, a superhero who probably should get more respect, and most of the creative team picks up where they left off, with new letterer Tom Napolitano doing a good job filling in for Troy Peteri, so the story flows well.
Score: 8.5/10
Recommended If
- You love strong characterization.
- You read the backups in All Out War
- You think that Vampire Grodd is the best character in this series.
Overall
The story is unbelievably stuffed, with this issue only adding more to the madness. However, some decent characterization and a great backup actually make this the best issue in the series so far. However, as the plotlines continue to haphazardly converge with each other, with the New Gods apparently joining the party, that might not be enough for most people to continue with this series.
Score: 7.5/10
English (US) · 