First let us congratulate Manhunter for surviving past issue 12 and scorn the internet comic “fans” who didn’t pick up this series because they predicted it would be done with by issue 12. It’s still going, now start buying the book! You reasoning is dead!
Before I continue, Spoiler Warning.
In issue 13 Kate Spencer finds herself under the mercy of Dumas. The man whose been killing off former Manhunters. Dumas is finally revealed to be former Manhunter Mark Shaw. As Kate battles for her life Cameron Chase, with the help of Dylan Battles, try to find her and uncover the secrets behind Project: Manhunter. This leads into a back story of the history of the characters including recently killed Dan Richards and Chase Lawler. Chase and Dylan soon stumble onto an OMAC file which initiates one of the robots to crash the party between Shaw and Spencer.
This issue features a fill in art team and they do an amazing job. I think Pina and Blanco have done a solid job but nothing quite spectacular. Penciller Brad Walker and returning inker Jimmy Palmiotti really bring an edge to Manhunter which I have thought missing in the visuals since Jesus Saiz departure.The layouts, detail, facial expressions, and fight sequences are real top notch in some what an old school sensibility. The back story of the Manhunters is particularly nice with colorist Steve Buccellato providing an old school style of coloring here. Excellent work all around.
Of course, there’s also a story present. I thought the reveal of Dumas identity was lack luster but appreciated the Manhunter history provided here. The interaction between Chase and Dylan at the beginning was fun. Especially rereading the Prince reference and having the 1999 CD playing as I write up this review.
Manhunter is still one of the best buzz books and here’s hoping the OMAC project tie-in brings in some new readers. It’s action packed with great characters. I’m a little sad to see Walker leaving but I’ll be fine with Pina stepping on and also knowing that we’ll be treated to some guest pencillers in the future. So pick up Manhunter people. It’s worth the 2.50. Don’t wait for trades seeing as volume 1 finally arrives in November, 11 issues later.
