Doomsday Clock #6
DC Comics
Written by: Geoff Johns
Art by: Gary Frank
The critically acclaimed superstar team of writer Geoff Johns and artist Gary Frank continue this groundbreaking event as the Mime and the Marionette take center stage in DOOMSDAY CLOCK #6.
(SPOILERS)
Doomsday Clock is back this month, and this time around it focuses on the criminal-duo Mime and the Marionette in their journey. Present and past, we get learn a lot more on how they met and how they’ve got into the position they’re in. Similar to how Doomsday Clock #4 focused on the story of new Rorschach, here we delve deep into their origins. It’s gruesome, dark and surprisingly funny at times, something this series continues to nail.
Although there’s a large amount of focus put on Mime and Marionette, Geoff Johns finds a way to move the story forward smoothly all the while telling a heartbreaking and thoughtful story between the two villains. In the present time, they’re in the custody of Joker and his goons. There’s also Batman in a wheelchair, he’s rolled around throughout the issue without too much thought put into him. There’s obviously plans for the Dark Knight, but Johns isn’t worried about it here as he reveals details about the ongoing metahuman conspiracy. However, it’s the origin story of Mime and Marionette where this issue truly shines.
You see, Erika Manson and Marcos Maez were once bright children whose lives were changed by those who controlled and oppress their parents. Both children were in family businesses that happened to be placed directly across the street from each other. Soon after they met, their parents died and they have been together ever since. It’s dark and emotional from the dialogue to the art. There’s so much nuanced storytelling here it makes for great repeated reading. The artwork from Gary Frank is excellent as he once again shows why he’s perfect for the job.
My only complaint, and it’s a small one, has to be the length of the issue. It feels shorter than usual, even with the events near the end it still felt too quick to what I’m used to. Even with that being said this was still a phenomenal issue that continues to set up big reveals for the rest of the series. There are still a lot of questions left unanswered but there are plenty of hints to keep you guessing in the right direction.
In conclusion:
It’s a bit too short for my liking but I’m invested in this story like no other. There’s so much to say here whether it’s the origins or the metahumans politics in present (DC) day even with the limited amount of time we spend here. This isn’t a story for kids and I love how the creative team is embracing it in a meaningful way. Nothing is left untouched but you never get the feeling they’re going overboard. There’s a purpose to everything and that’s where the Comedian comes in, one of the biggest mysteries here. There’s also the documents shown at the very end that solidify that this story is more than meets the eye and will surely catch your attention.
Rating: 9.8/10
SuperBroMovies 