Writers: Mariko Tamaki (Dark Detective) & Matthew Rosenberg (Grifters)
Art: Dan Mora (Dark Detective) & Carmine Di Giandomenico (Grifters)
Colors: Jordie Bellaire (Dark Detective) & Antonio Fabela (Grifters)
Letters: Aditya Bidikar (Dark Detective) & Andworld Design (Grifters)
Publisher: DC
Price: $5.99
Release Date: 2/9/21
Reviewer: Soycornholio
Have you ever picked up a comic and after you were done reading, you kind of smile to yourself? Like “damn, that was a good issue.” Well Future State: Dark Detective #3 by Mariko Tamaki is that type of comic. Let’s take a nosedive into what is currently taking place in Bruce Wayne’s humble life.
If you’re interested in this comic or any of the others mentioned, simply click on the title/link to snag a copy through Amazon.
Future State: Dark Detective #3 THOUGHTS
For starters, Bruce is still broke and living with his amazing roommate, Noah. Bruce is currently on the hunt to see how much information the Magistrate has on the citizens of Gotham. Here’s a hint: they have a lot. I find it ironic that Bruce is really surprised about how much information the Magistrate truly has on Gotham. Like, dude, you are (were) BATMAN. The Caped Crusader! The Dark Knight! The World’s Greatest Detective! Batsy! Ol’ Pointy Ears! He He Who Must Not Be Named!Ok maybe not the last one, but your detective skills are so legendary that Ra’s al Ghul just calls you “Detective.” What does this mean? This means you have information on EVERYBODY! Maybe it is ok for Bruce to have information on everyone because he uses it to protect them? Or maybe he is just a little surprised that there is an organization that is currently using his tech for more sinister reasons? Either way, I find it very interesting.
This issue also gave us the perfect “Batman meets Batman” situation. I am reminded of what it must felt like for Madonna to meet Lady Gaga. Picture it (in Sophia Petrillo’s voice) you have an icon who is literally on top of their A-game. They have written the rule book on how to be a pop icon. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, another pop star begins to rise and rule the charts. Take away Madonna and Lady Gaga and add in Tim Fox & Bruce Wayne. This is the situation that we currently have taking place. There was a pretty tense moment between the two, however, I feel as if “game recognized game.” Bruce MAY be a little salty, but I think he is handling it pretty well.
In our second story, we are back with Grifter who has upped the ante in terms of action. This story read like a ““Die Hard” movie script or some type of late ’80s to early 90’s action movie. It was riddled with various plot twists and a special appearance from the Huntress. One thing that truly stood out in this issue is the overall artwork. Bellaire’s artwork reminds me of the early to mid-2000’s style (in a good way). The details and expressions conveyed the meaning of what was taking place.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Can we just take a moment to appreciate the actual quality of the pages for Future State? Yes, some of the books are way more expensive than your normal comic, but it is still cheaper than an Archie Double Digest …right? I also love not having advertisements in the book. We are flooded with pure story…and I appreciate that. These two stories are the latest in an amazing set up for the DC Universe. My main question is how. How did we get here? What is the full story that leads us down this path? Maybe this is taking place in one of the numerous multiverses, but either way, I am ready for the ride. I would 100% recommend you pick up this issue, sit back, and enjoy it.