Written by Christopher Priest.
Art by Howard Porter; Robert Jones; Ken Bruzenak; & Pat Garrahy.
Cover Art by Art Nichols & Joe Quesada.
SUMMARY:
Entitled “The Wall,” DC Comics released this issue for September 1994. Inebriated by energy absorbed from the Light Entity, teenager Ray Terrill annoyingly defies his estranged father, “Happy” Terrill – the Golden Age Ray. Pursuing his out-of-control son across the globe, the original Ray resorts to seemingly removing the teen’s vast powers. Having ‘sobered up,’ Ray’s gleeful enjoyment of normal humanity (for the first time in his life) is soon tarnished by a humiliating hold-up robbery.
Seeking out his father, an irate Ray unleashes his full vengeance over this heartless lesson in ‘tough love.’ The question becomes: can father and son reconcile in time before tragedy ensues?
REVIEW:
Bolstered by the art squad’s terrific visuals, Issue # 5 spells out Ray Terrill’s underrated potential. As annoying as his character’s immaturity is, Ray’s personality is at least written closer to reality – as compared to the mid-80’s Teen Titans, who behaved far more like mid-twenty-somethings. Further, writer Christopher Priest transforms an excessively dramatic scolding where Ray’s father reduces his son to tears into a surprisingly poignant sequence. Priest also adds an intriguing last surprise that should keep the Ray’s fans hooked enough to give his fledging series a chance.
Showcasing two generations of the title character, The Ray # 5, overall, merits a chance at rediscovery.
Note: As of Issue # 28, the series was cancelled in 1996.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
After a two-page letters-and-answers column, “DC Universe # 19” hypes possible (no matter how absurd) plots in the Zero Hour saga.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6½ Stars
