In “The Deep” (Part 2), we are treated to a well judged action sequence which dominates issue #17 of
THE OUTSIDERS. As we join the group, they are attempting to retrieve Katana from the grasps of one of the hideous metal clunking giants sent on a mission to retrieve strange rocks and such by those naked underground sorts. This entire sequence is entertaining and showcases the abilities of this selection of The Outsiders well while succeeding in emphasizing this battle as a wider issue in the ongoing storyline and focusing on the connection that the team members have for each other.
Along with some very cool panels, we are presented with a horrific case for claustrophobia when the besuited evil-doer is entombed in acid, tearing his flesh from his body. The clinical behavior and treatment of this acid victim gives visual confirmation of the casual brutality that informs this villainous group, while also being a gloriously morbid set-piece. The aesthetics of the robot receptacles and the underground lair of The Insiders is partly what keep the underground setting from becoming boring. The stocky, uncaring machines which lay waste to their inhabitants as per their orders possess the necessary menace and personality to appropriate jar the reader.
"The Insiders", as they are called, arrive at a place where they come across as engaging and ambiguous foes in a way that hints at depth of character rather than feeling like a case of writer's block in progress. Their unchecked nakedness is also a plus. The closing pages introducing Deathstroke into the fold are encouraging and add a further twist which should benefit an already interesting and well told story, especially considering the history between him and Geo-Force.
It's a nice change to be able to leave the hard cynicism alone and just enjoy a superhero story. Right now we're in the middle of a gimmick overload and THE OUTSIDERS is one of the few titles which allow an escape from all of that. The heroes are well defined and you get a genuine sense of camaraderie without feeling like the group exists for some cheap stunt. There is a natural progression of story and tone and the use of the heroes feels comfortable. You aren't crying out for more Metamorpho or Creeper because your focus is where it should be: on the story being told. It feels like Thompson; Buy the Ticket, Take the Ride. Being able to switch off the mind and enjoy some great escapist entertainment is a treat in this climate and I suggest you all give it a go, without the gimmicks and cynical cash-ins
OFFICIAL SYNOPSIS: "While The Outsiders find their hands full dealing with a new group called the Thrashers, a battle of the minds between Jack Ryder and his Creeper persona shakes the group to its core. And in the shadows, The Insiders make an offer to Deathstroke that he can't refuse. All this plus Owlman tries proving himself to the team!"
