Lois Lane #1 (Review): You Can't Keep A Good Reporter Quiet
Updated: Jan 25, 2020
LOIS LANE #1
Writer: Greg Rucka
Artist: Mike Perkins
Colorist: Paul Mounts
Letterer: Simon Bowland
Publisher: DC Comics
Rating: 10/10
It's about damn time! That was my first initial reaction when this book was announced. Why had it taken so long to give one of the most important characters in comics a solo book. Why did one of the strongest women in comics not have her own title. In a day when publishers are trying to be more diverse, this seems like it was long overdue. What makes this even more special is that we have Greg Rucka writing the book, who in my opinion writes some of the strongest character stories in the medium. Not to mention the strong female characters such as Wonder Woman and Renee Montoya, who I'll get back to later. Partnered with Greg, is Mike Perkins, who couldn't be more perfect for this type of book, with his "grounded" and gritty style.
OK let's get into the story. This is a story that is deeply rooted in the DCU while shying away from the colorful, spandex clad, heroes that inhabit it. Instead we focus on the tough-as-nails Lois Lane as she uncovers the truth behind a child separation policy and detention centers. Rucka cleverly parallels what is currently going on in our political climate. I've recently said that Bendis writes my favorite Lois, well sorry Bendis, my allegiance has changed. Rucka has now written my favorite Lois. In one issue he has expertly encapsulated what makes Lois so special. From the opening pages of her in a messy hotel room, writing her article. To the dialogue between her and Perry White, it's clear that he has a clear grasp on what makes her one of the most important characters in all of comics.
Lois' drive to expose the corruption of both the government of the US and Russia, puts her fearlessness on full display. By the end of the issue Lois succeeds in her goal to bring attention to the US Government’s mistreatment of immigrant families. This series while tied into current events (Lois being caught kissing Superman), it veers enough away to stand completely on it's own.
One of the highlights of the book, was seeing the return of Renee Montoya as the Question. Rucka really left his mark on that character, so it was a pleasant surprise to see her back in action and teaming up with Lois. Hopefully she'll be a recurring presence in the book.
I see people comparing this to GOTHAM CENTRAL, which I can definitely see the similarities between. The focus on supporting characters is the main parallel I see, but it's also the amazing characterization with each character in the book. As that is one of my favorite series ever published by DC, I think LOIS LANE has the potential to be just as good if not better than that series.
OK enough about story, let's talk about the amazing art of Mike Perkins and Paul Mounts. Like I said before, Mike's art is made for a story like this. His attention to detail is phenomenal. From the subtle nuances of each characters face, to the imperfections of everyday life, like a messy hotel room or wrinkled clothes. Plus Mount's coloring gives the world a noir feel which is exactly what I was hoping for with this book.
Overall, I think this is a book that any comic fan can pick up and enjoy. Even you indie fans out there, you know who you are. This is a welcome addition to the DC lineup, let's hope it does well enough to go past this initial 12 issue run.