And Then I Read: BRIGHTEST DAY 14 & 15

Images © DC Comics, Inc.

In this issue, Deadman takes on one of Batman's villains in order to have a chance to talk to Batman. Seems a bit extreme, but makes for some action-filled pages. When things settle, Deadman offers Batman the white ring he's been carrying around, which will apparently make the wearer an all-powerful White Lantern. (Tolkien's One Ring, anyone?) Like Deadman and the other Brightest Day characters, Batman is also recently revived from the dead…sort of, so it makes sense in a way. But, with all that's going on in his own life and books, could he possibly squeeze in another major commitment? Read it to find out.

A fine piece of art by Reis and Prado, the only two artists on this issue for a change. Looks good throughout.

Issue 15 is all about the Martian Manhunter and a Mars we haven't seen before. One where he's managed to restore the planet to its former beauty and life, and where he's being celebrated not only by his people and family, but by the heroes of Earth, his former teammates on the Justice League. It's all a very rosy picture. Too rosy, as I'm sure you'll soon figure out if you've been following the series. Interesting to see this idealized vision of what Mars could be, though. Of course, things soon start going wrong, with the Earth heroes are being mysteriously murdered…

The art on this one is by Gleason, Clark and a host of inkers, but it once more looks good throughout. Nice job of making the inner feelings of the Martians evident in their appearance, too.

Oh, are we supposed to be finding out what Brightest Day is really all about? Not here, not yet. Maybe a slight step or two forward in issue 14, that's about it.

Recommended.