The second issue is almost as good as the first.
General Information
Title: Incognito #2
Author: Ed Brubaker
Illustrator(s): Sean Phillips (art) and Val Staples (color)
Cover Date: February 2009
Cover Price: $3.50 US
Premise
Zack, the supervillain in protective custody, has been actively saving people lately, mostly because he enjoys beating on their attackers. Witnesses are going to get him in trouble, so he calls on his only friend for help, not realizing what that will eventually lead to. Meanwhile, his old boss, the Black Death, has learned that Zack is the reason he was put in prison.
This issue’s essay about pulp heroes is about Doc Savage.
High Point
Intended victim: … Oh thank you, God… thank you… thank God…
Zack: Christ. Do you even hear yourself? Get a grip…
Low Point
I really don’t see one, and I just read the issue a third time looking for one.
The Scores
This still feels original. It’s an original concept, and this second issue establishes new characters and directions not seen in the first issue. I give it 5 out of 6.
The artwork is very well suited to the title. Phillips’ line work is perfect for the tone of the script. In all my comic reading, I’ve taken notice of a grand total of two colorists for their contributions; the first is Frank D’Armata, and the second is Val Staples work on this title. Staples manages to establish each location and time with distinct colouring, making the nighttime scenes feel appropriately dim and dark without obscuring details. I give it 6 out of 6.
The story continues to move forward effectively. We meet Zack’s only friend, we learn how he was brought into witness protection, and we see why he was willing to give up his old boss. We also learn things about his coworker Amanda. I give it 5 out of 6.
The characterization is still solid. We learn more about Zack and why he’s doing what he’s doing. We also get his friend, Farmer, established in pretty short order. I give it 5 out of 6.
The emotional response continues to run high. This is a very engaging and enjoyable title. I give it 6 out of 6.
The flow, once again, runs at the creators’ pace and not the reader’s. When you can’t help but read at their speed, they’ve done their jobs well. I give it 6 out of 6.
Overall, it’s another strong entry in the series. Check it out. I give it 6 out of 6.
In total, Incognito #2 receives 39 out of 42.
;-)
He sings folk rock, he draws comix, the dude is a regular renaissance man!