Nightwing #76
DC Comics
Written by: Dan Jurgens
Art by: Ronan Cliquet
Colors by: Nick Filardi
Letters by: AndWorld Design
There have been quite a few good issues of Nightwing since the Ric Grayson era ended, but nothing has been on the level of Nightwing #76. Without question, the title’s title’s best issue this year — and, in general, a long time.
But as much as Nightwing #76 is one of the best the title has offered in a while, that doesn’t mean everything is peachy or that this issue is driven by crazy action.
Yes, the action is good and serves a purpose, but it’s what happens after that’ll really stick with Nightwing fans. Especially the decision Dan Jurgens and Ronan Cliquet made with the last 2.5 pages
(WARNING: Spoilers for Nightwing #76 ahead.)
The last few pages gave me chills. The silent panels were an outstanding choice.
Readers probably figured out what was coming shortly after Nightwing’s battle with KGBeast. Jurgens clearly didn’t do much to hide what was going on, but I actually liked that he did that.
Because we all know Dick has been in pursuit of a somewhat normal life. More importantly, he’s done everything he can to not become Batman.
Dick obviously hasn’t fallen that far, but even he could tell the road he’s heading down. And that’s what makes Nightwing #76 so special. Dick is becoming more like Bruce and he knows it. But — like Bruce would — he’s burying that deep down to push forward.
So frustrating, but in a good way for readers. I just want to read more about Dick’s declension into Bruce-dom.