COMICS OF THE YEAR I read more comics (virtually) in 2021 than I did in 2020. I mostly followed the creators I love who have a proven track record with me —LV
Rorschach
Jorge Fornes and Tom King put out my favorite comic of 2021. Another great expansion to the brilliant world of The Watchmen. More political thriller/ detective story than an outright Rorschach book, this title completely delivers. Incredibly smart and wellconceived. Fornes is an absolute revelation.
Strange Adventures
Another masterpiece by Tom King. This time the art chores are divvied up between Doc Shaner and Mitch Gerads. The book puts an intergalactic spin on the story of a war hero returning home and trying to settle back into life. Haunted by his decisions, Adam Strange (a wonderful and often over-looked character) has to deal with the far reaching ramifications of his actions. Mr. Terrific (who has never been better) ultimately has to make incredibly tough decisions in one of the top books of the year.
Human Target
While only two issues of this series have been released in 2021, it is absolutely worthy of entry on this list. Tom King crafts another wonderful tale this time featuring the more comedic cast of the JLI and human target Christopher Chance in an epic story involving big baddie Maxwell Lord. I can’t wait to see how this title plays out over the rest of the year. If you haven’t seen Greg Smallwood’s lush art on this book, run to your nearest shop and snag a copy.
Superman Son of Kal-El
No book generated quite as much buzz this year as Tom Taylor’s book featuring new Superman Jonathan Kent. While much of the press focused on Jon coming out as queer, what they’re really missing is a sweet coming of age story. While Jon has been experienced for years, stepping into the role of Superman comes with its own unique set of pressure.
Batman
James Tynion IV and Jorge Jimenez dominated the sales charts this year with their take on Batman. Introducing a ton of new characters (Miracle Molly, Punchline,
26
Art Department Weekly • December 2021
Clownhunter, Underbroker and the Designer) in an epic battle for Gotham which ultimately led to Harley and Poison Ivy admitting their love for each other in an in canon story. An epic run by this fan favorite creative duo.
We Have Demons
The first in a trio of Scott Snyder comixology originals has him paired with his best-selling co-creator Greg Capullo. The book features a team of demon hunters as they try to indoctrinate a new member after the death of her father. With a traitor in their midst, the team tries to continue their demon hunting ways while looking for the enemy within. Really nice start to this series, and, as always, beautifully illustrated by Capullo.
Clear
My favorite of the three Snyder comixology originals features brilliant pencils by Francis Manapul. A futuristic techno-noir whodunit is quickly paced and features some of the best art on the market today. The coloring by Manapul is so lush you will feel like you are part of their world.
Night of the Ghoul
A creepy horror title by Francesco Francavilla and Snyder. A decades spanning tale which brings us from World War II all the way to the current day in a senior hospital. Francavilla truly is a master of horror storytelling. Brilliant book. I can’t wait for more.
Black Widow
This book deserves to be on this list simply because of the unbelievable cover work of Adam Hughes. Hands down the best covers on the planet. I gush over them every month. If you crack the book open you will find an emotional, epic journey written by Kelly Thompson. It’s the best the Widow has been in years.
