Issue fourteen brings ‘Manhunted’, the series’ second major arc, to a close, while opening up some very interesting questions. First, though, let me say that this issue is a great example of what a tie-in should be. An OMAC tie-in, it, on the one hand, really does enhance the OMAC story, giving us some genuine insights, unlike some supposed tie-ins, which really just feature an appearance of the blue finned henchmen. On the other hand, unlike other tie-ins, see Sacrifice, it isn’t necessary to read them in order to appreciate the principle story. Andreyko and the editorial staff have used each story to enhance the other in a way that should become a text book example of how to do a cross-over issue.
As Manhunter Kate Spencer has taken a name with a lot of history in the DCU, and this arc has done a lot to both acknowledge that legacy and integrate it. It also ties that legacy directly into the OMAC technology in interesting ways (which I’d love to discuss, but don’t want to ruin for you).
Cameron Chase and the DEO also play an important role in this story and in tying everything together. I can’t remember when there wasn’t a DEO, but it was only with this story that it occurred to me that I didn’t know, or couldn’t remember, what the letters stood for. The Department of Extra-normal Operations looks to be playing an increased role in the next few Manhunter issues. Perhaps we’ll see Kate more fully integrated into the world of the DCU, and just in time for its big event Crisis.
Issue fourteen gives us a lot. First, it does a nice job of tying up the traumas of Mark Shaw. Second, Pina and the art team gives us a great visual when the OMAC recognizes that Kate is behind it. Its head seems almost translucent. Third, in the last issue we learned that Agent Harold gave Chase specific orders to “neutralize” Shaw. Harold plays an interesting role here as well, but what it means for the big picture isn’t clear yet. It is tie-in related. Fourth, with all the talk of nanotechnology, I can’t help but wonder about the many injuries Kate has been taking. They would never really make sense outside of the context of a comic book – and maybe not even then. She has taken one blow after the other, blows that would have left any normal person hospitalized, and she has just bounced back. She does it in this issue, too. But maybe the Manhunter technology she has been using has been infecting her, giving her the healing abilities other Manhunters have had. Nanotech could, theoretically, been absorbed into her system through pores or sweat, or just through the form-fitting suit. Its just speculation on my part, but it seems possible. Fifth, and finally, we also get what amounts to a happy ending for Kate. Or maybe it is just a stupid move on her part, and she’ll live to regret it. You’ll see what I mean when you read it. Maybe Andreyko just thought he needed to mark the end of what has been difficult adventure by giving her a little… Well, you’ll see.
Now in its second year, and with two strong arcs behind it, this series has its feet under it. If you haven’t checked it out, its time you did. |
