Reviewer: Mathan Erhardt
Story Title: Flexibility
Written by: Mark Waid
Penciled and Inked by: Frank Quitely
Colored by: Francesco Ponzi
Lettered by: Clem Robins
Editor: Dan Raspler
Publisher: DC Comics
Even though I am back purchasing my monthly titles again, here I am doing a Retro Review. In honor of the new Plastic Man title I decided to take a look at his (possible) future; his adventures with his son.
Ok, what you have to know about this book is that it takes place in the Elseworlds Kingdom Come future. Kingdom Come was populated by loads of characters created by Alex Ross and Mark Waid. The sequel, of sorts, The Kingdom, showcased some of these characters.
The issue opens in Titan’s Tower, which has been converted into a nightclub for the super powered. Offspring, the son of Plastic Man, overhears a plot by some of the attendees. But when he goes to arrest them, they laugh in his face, and push him to the side.
Alas here is the plight of Offspring. He struggles to be taken seriously as a hero, but his pop is Plastic Man, the least serious hero around, plus he also inherited his powers. Oh yeah he also has problems with the woman at home. But things are looking up for our hero, as his former teammates want to get the band back together.
Offspring, Zatara, Avia (Mister Miracle and Barda’s daughter) and Star Spangled Kid and Stripesy go off to thwart the villains, to comical results. Plastic Man has a heart-to-heart with his son’s girlfriend, sort of. The hero/villain thing doesn’t quite go according to plan, but Offspring learns a thing or two about destiny and his role in life.
Waid is a funny guy. The dialogue between teammates is often hilarious. He tells a great story with strong comedic and dramatic moments. Even though this is only one issue, you learn a lot about the relationships Offspring has with his father and his girlfriend. It’s a great spotlight issue.
Quitely also turns in a fine issue. His detailed art is a perfect fit with the world of Kingdom Come. The world is rich and colorful and deep. And his gift for physical humor is apparent, and exploited. But Quitely also does a great job on the dramatic parts. The issue looks great.
