Reviewer: Mathan “Judd is doing his thing” Erhardt
Story Title: New Blood Part Six: Coming Out
Written by: Judd Winick
Penciled by: Phil Hester
Inked by: Ande Parks
Colored by: Guy Major
Lettered by: Clem Robins
Editor: Bob Schreck
Publisher: DC Comics
I’m sure that by now, you know that Mia Dearden, Ollie “Green Arrow” Queen’s ward, tested positive for H.I.V. And I’m also sure that you are also aware that she’s destined to become the new Speedy. But what you might not know is that a criminal named “Brick” has intimidated Star City’s law enforcement into giving him free reign for his criminal activities. There, you’re all caught up.
This issue begins with Mia standing in the center of her high school gym addressing her classmates, and telling them about her condition. It’s a pretty moving scene. After her speech Connor and Ollie discuss their approach to the topic of her “condition.” Ollie leaves in a huff.
He shows up at the house of Danny “Brick” Brickwell, at which point he challenges Brick to a one-on-one fight. Brick agrees. While Ollie is no match for Brick physically, he uses smarts to win, plus a few “tricks” up his sleeve.
After confronting Brick, Ollie returns home to confront Mia. They talk, and she even manages to convince him to let her put on a costume and fight crime. The issue ends with Green Arrow and the new Speedy leaping from a rooftop.
Winick has a knack for dialogue. He can also fill a scene with emotion. Mia’s opening speech is very well written, as is her argument to convince Ollie to let her put on the tights. Brick’s gloating is also well written, as is his defeat. Winick deserves to be praised for this issue. Robins also did a great job of lettering the issue, particular Mia’s speech and the sound effects during the fight.
Equally deserving of praise is the team of Hester & Parks, as this is their final issue as art team on this book. They perfectly capture the emotion and alienation of Mia’s speech in the opening off the issue. They’ve also give Brick a unique look, and their fight sequence is both brutal and beautiful. The revealing of Mia’s costume and the final page are both spectacular.
