Justice League Dark #6 // Review
The depths of Detective Chimp are heavily explored in Justice League Dark #6, written by James Tynion IV, with pencils by Daniel Sampere, inks by Juan Albarran, and colors by Adriano Lucas.
The history of Detective Chimp’s damnation of Myrra, following the death of Jim Rook, is given prominence, while multiple mystic forces oppose the growing malevolence of Nabu (presenting as Doctor Fate). By the issue’s conclusion, the protagonists are given several new charges, and a familiar foe returns to confound them further.
Monologues performed by Detective Chimp, further fleshing out the character, note the highlight of James Tynion IV’s writing this issue. Through Chimp’s voice, Tynion is able to contextualize the character’s drinking, depression, and general demeanor. Furthermore, the interaction between Chimp, at his lowest, with Diana, is another highlight; showcasing interpersonal growth between team-members, as well as emphasizing the aspect of the Amazon that makes her such a Wonder; her heart.
Daniel Sampere and Juan Albarran’s heartbreakingly emotional close-up portraits of Detective Chimp mark the artistic high points of the issue. However, Adriano Lucas’s color work is best displayed in the issue’s various fight scenes, with the page showcasing Nabu’s best impersonation of Master Roshi’s Evil Containment Wave noting a stand-out example.
Concluding the short arc’s interdimensional dalliances, Justice League Dark #6 fires on all cylinders, providing meaningful character development and significant overarching plot progression, while wrapping up the tangentially relevant present plot line in time to propel the protagonists head-first into the next adventure.
