By Ashley Gibbs

Despite the action packed cover and the name “Screams and Arrows,” Injustice 2 #8 is a very subdued issue. I didn’t find this to be a bad thing but the cover is certainly misleading. This issue deals with the aftermath of Ra’s Al Ghul’s attack on the wedding of Green Arrow and Black Canary, as he kidnaps their son and Black Lightning’s daughters. It serves to move characters into their next position and sets up for the confrontation between the heroes and Ra’s. I enjoyed this issue, the story was good, as was the artwork and it had humor as well. While it make seem like filler it was still an enjoyable read.

Nothing truly vital happens this issue, but the pacing is quick and engaging as ever. We see that Damien took Alfred’s body, though his reasons don’t exactly match with his grandfather’s. This only fuel’s Batman’s mission, of course, as he and the heroes plot their rescue mission of the children, who we also see briefly along with Harley Quinn. Most of the first part of the story is moving chess pieces where they need to be, my personal favorite part of the book was the second half as Batman seeks out Plastic Man to join the mission. “Seriously?” Green Arrow asks, echoing what readers may also feel. Yes, seriously. It was a nice added bit of humor in a series that is usually pretty dark and if Batman says the mission needs Plastic Man then you don’t argue the point.

The artwork is at a great level as usual with this series. The style is what you would traditionally expect from mainstream comics. Good use of colors and shading as well as good character models and movement. I like the art and while I am no expert in the field it pleases me aesthetically. One thing I will point out is the panel layouts are really good, they don’t just use the same size or style of boxes which I really like. It helps makes the story flow quickly and ties things together while also not boring the eyes. If I had any complaints it would be that the female faces can be a bit harsh and not carry expressions well, especially when they have a serious moment.

While the previous issue certainly had more in the way of physical action, Injustice 2 #8 is still a solid experience. Yes, a reader can miss this issue and not lose anything too vital but fans will enjoy it. I’m personally a biased fan of Damian Wayne and his father, so while the moments were brief I liked how they showed Damien’s humanity as he dealt with Alfred. Also, Blue Beetle returns, wanting to avenge Ted Kord’s death. While not the most important issue in terms of story, this is still a good issue to pick up and read due to the good character moments coupled with humor and stellar artwork.

Score: 5/5

Injustice 2 #8
Writer: Tom Taylor
Penciller: Bruno Redondo
Inker: Juan Albarran
Colors: Rex Lokus
Letters: Wes Abbott
Publisher: DC Comics