Comics / Comic Reviews / DC Comics

Aquaman #22

By Hervé St-Louis
May 14, 2017 - 11:14

Aquaman and Mera fight two dead water creatures and must make an important decision to return the humans transformed back to their selves. But this decision will create a rift between him and Mera. What can Aquaman do?

The decision that Aquaman makes this issue is important for his character and the upcoming Atlantis storyline where his leadership will be contested. Here, he chooses to use a nuclear device to destroy the portal between the world of Tethis and Earth, arming the former in the process. But Mera who asked him to shut the signal which makes Tethis transform humans into dead water creatures, questions his choices. She asks him if this the way to treat alien life? If it is, then what about how surface humans treat Atlantis?

I like when the hero makes decisions which seem to save some lives but creates more problems later. This entire storyline which seemed like it was a pause in the greater scheme of things is not so after all. It matters for Aquaman’s growth. I really like how Mera who at first seemed so antagonistic towards humans is Aquaman’s conscience in this story. She clearly is disappointed with him.

I’m not always a fan of Philip Briones’s work. While his art is reminiscent and inspired by John Byrne, his inking can be at time too light and insufficient to correctly strengthen his figures. Not this time. His work is outstanding this issue with great facility for action scenes. You’ll believe that Aquaman is jumping off the ground easily.

Rating: 9 /10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12