Powers #36
Image Comics
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Art: Mike Avon Oeming
Price $2.95

Rating: 4 stars

Powers has consistently been one of my top five favorite comics since I discovered it two years ago. Filled with superb characterization and enthralling plot lines, Powers is the book I can’t wait to pick up on comic day. I would venture to say it is my favorite Brian Michael Bendis work, which is saying something. I have picked up everything he writes because of consistent quality of storytelling, and the fact that the best artists want to work with him, so the books always look great.

The current storyline has been a tough one for bringing in new readers as it has been a history of how Powers came to be. From a “Holy Crap” Cro-Magnon issue to the current 1980’s style issue, readers who aren’t familiar with the storyline may be out in the cold. This is definitely Bendis’ big payoff for the fans like myself that have picked up and read each issue over and over.

In issue 36, the four prominent heroes of the age, Diamond, Zora, Retro Girl, and Diamondback are having the fight of their lives against the criminal element, who decided to team up to further their cause. As Diamond, who in Powers continuity is Police Detective Christian Walker, fights the enemy that has caused him so much heartache since their prehistoric days, it is evident that neither will walk away without some major damage.

Bendis has created a fascinating world in Powers. His lead character Walker, and his partner Deena are incredibly developed, fascinating leads. From their first meeting in issue one to the last story, the focus of the series has been on the two solving crimes involving powers. There is no place for the faint of heart, as Walker and Deena have dealt with everything from spontaneously combusting heroes to a murder mystery involving public favorite Retro Girl. Through it all, Bendis has had a definite vision, and continues to keep the reader’s interest with the revelations of the “Forever” storyline.

Mike Avon Oeming is as much a part of Powers as Bendis, with a distinct, action-packed style. There isn’t anything Bendis has scripted that Oeming hasn’t turned into a gripping image. From the blood and guts crime scenes to his uncanny ability to breathe life into the characters, Oeming is the perfect partner in crime to Bendis.

Next issue is the last of the series before it is rebooted with a new number one. I can understand if new readers wanted to wait until the new series, but I can say with great conviction that if you aren’t reading Powers, you’re missing out on something special. From gritty detective work, to the supernatural, Bendis and Oeming cover it with aplomb and style.

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