Comics / Comic Reviews / DC Comics

Silencer Annual #1

By Hervé St-Louis
October 21, 2018 - 15:52

Silencer remembers how she first met her husband and what triggered her to leave the employment of Talia al Ghul several years ago as she met Batman in Gotham City.

This story is straightforward. Silencer is asked to perform a task on behalf of Talia putting her directly in the line of fire of Batman. Batman shows up they kind of fight but a third-party villain sent by Ra’s al Ghul shows up. The “heroes” band together to defeat the new threat. Batman attempts to convince Silencer that she can do good. This sticks in her and creates the kernel for her new life with a family.

As my first Silencer comic, I will say that this was a good introduction devoid of all complexities and confusion. Silencer’s motivations were clear and the imminent threat to her current family clear. This comic served as a tool to provide more historical background in the days that were. Yes, Dan Abnett used a formula here but sometimes that’s enough. The only drawback is how do you make a new character like Silencer remarkable and memorable when her story is not as original as it could be?

Jack Herbert’s work is much cleaner than Silencer’s co-creator, John Romita Jr. I like his Talia. While pretty, there is something exotic and non-caucasian inn her looks. Herbert is also good with drawing everyday thugs and cityscapes. I find that his Silencer seem to be able to jump as high as Daredevil, but I don’t know if this is one of her abilities or the artist’s exaggerated interpretation of her skills.

Rating: 8.5 /10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12