Talon #1 Review
Written by James Tynion IV
Plot by Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV
Art by Guillem March
Reviewed by Travis McCollum
Calvin Rose is a man on a mission. After escaping the clutches of the Court of Owls and hiding away from their ever-watching eye (at least enough time for Batman to come and deal with them), Calvin returns to Gotham to make sure that all of the Court has been dealt with and that he can finally live in peace. Of course that’s not the case (as there wouldn’t be a book otherwise) and with the help of a man just as determined to stop the Court once and for all, Calvin decides to use his skills from his time as a Talon to go on the offensive.
While the Snyder influence has been evident since the beginning, I’m pleasantly surprised at how unique Tynion’s voice is and what he brings to the table. His narration flows extremely well and the dialogue between characters is snappy, quick and to the point. He changes between the two effortlessly and the characters really feel alive. It’s never heavy-handed or bulky, but it’s not a book you can just read in a minute or two either. If Tynion can keep up this level of writing, I think people are really going to start paying attention to him.
To say Guillem March’s artwork is amazing is a gross understatement. Whether or not you liked his previous work with Catwoman or Gotham City Sirens, March fits Talon like a glove and it would be hard to picture any other artist doing this book now. His attention to detail in the facial work, his panel-to-panel transitions during action scenes and even something simple as sitting on a bed and talking to someone feels bold and cinematic. When Calvin jumps off the blimp and into Gotham City, March makes it feel like he’s really falling and at a realistic pace. I’ve always been a fan of March’s, now hopefully with Talon more people will jump on board as well.
Verdict:
When you have a comic that is as beautifully drawn, fantastically written and well-conceived as Talon #1, you owe it to yourself to buy this book. Calvin Rose is a great new addition to the Gotham City universe and I’m excited to see where his journey takes him on his quest to end the Court of Owls. If you’re looking for a great new book, be sure to give Talon a look.
