Story Title: N/A
Reviewed by: Mathan “I (heart) interrogation scenes” Erhardt
Written by: Warren Ellis
Penciled, Inked & Colored by: Ben Templesmith
Lettered by: Chris Eliopoulos
The issue opens with Richard Fell entering into the interrogation room and meeting Bobby Able and his lawyer. Pleasantries get exchanged. Then Helen Hackett a D.A. Fell knew from “across the bridge” enters and she and Fell reminisce for a moment.
But then things get interesting. In dramatic fashion Fell recounts not only the case against Bobby, but also what he was able to piece together about the chain of events and the motivation for crime.
However after Fell rests on his laurels Able’s attorney steps to the plate and earns his money. It’s then that the tables are turned and the power of the adversarial judicial system is displayed. The issue ends in complete frustration.
Every issue of Fell is a treat to read and this issue is no exception. Seeing Fell present the evidence against Able is a powerful moment that reads so well you can practically see it unfold on a big screen. But it’s the third act that shows Ellis’ true gift; he keeps this book grounded in reality. While the issue ends in frustration it also leaves the reader in awe of how things work behind closed doors.
Templesmith never disappoints. His artwork is moody and atmospheric. He makes Bobby creepy and makes us feel Fell’s pain. His work on the flashbacks reminds me of the special effects on C.S.I.; it’s creepy and extreme and fills in the blanks.
