I was not a fan of the debut issue of Danger Street. It’s use of obscure characters delivered a disconnect in that I generally didn’t care what happened to them but then the layering of a fantasy story in what is a murder mystery was a bit stranger. Danger Street #2 is a vast improvement as it focuses more on the emotional fallout of the first issue but continues the rather odd fantasy framing.

Written by Tom King, Danger Street #2 is all about emotion and next steps after tragedy. The issue opens with the funeral of Good Looks as his friends attempt to eulogize their loss. That’s juxtaposed with those responsible for the loss, who are also shaken by events. What we see are two very different groups, one rich who will use their money and influence to exact revenge, the others not so much who will attempt to correct the wrong they’ve enacted.

The issue does great focusing on the small details like an investigation by a police officer to determine what happened or the manipulation of media to get a result. But, in the end, it’s a hug that really stands out. But, the details also cause the series to stumble as King wraps the entire series in a fantasy story with talks of knight and princesses in the narration to drives the story. Focused just as a straight up revenge story, the series would be far better. The fantasy narrative so far hasn’t really added much to the story.

The art by Jorge Fornés is really good. With color by Dave Stewart and lettering by Clayton Cowles, the visuals captures the rather morose nature of the story. But, despite the rather down narrative and visuals, the comic doesn’t cross the line into being depressing. It keeps things balanced so it doesn’t bring the reader down. The art also does a great job of balancing its grounded and fantastical elements. A police officer talking to individuals to get clues works in the same space where space gods talk and superpowered individuals interrogate people. The style and look of the comic perfectly matches the tone and content of the series.

Danger Street #2 is a vast improvement on the first issue. It delivers the “humanity” of the characters that makes me connect to them in some way. By showing their grief, the team has me now caring about the actions each character takes going forward. It delivers a reason I should care about all of that. It’s no longer a story of rich brats and screw-up heroes but now one of revenge and redemption driven by mourning.

Story: Tom King Art: Jorge Fornés
Color: Dave Stewart Letterer: Clayton Cowles
Story: 7.85 Art: 8.1 Overall: 7.9 Recommendation: Read

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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Purchase: Zeus Comics – comiXology/Kindle