The Darkness storyline “Empire” comes to a dramatic close with “Daybreak”—and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
The Darkness #6
Writer: Phil Hester
Artist: Michael Broussard
Colors: Sheldon Mitchell
Covers: Dale Keown (A, featured below) and Stjepan Sejic (B)
Summary: “The smashing conclusion of the “Empire” storyarc is here, as Jackie Estacado faces off against a foe that is pure evil incarnate. Matching brains and brawn against this formidable enemy will test Jackie’s strength, acumen and resolve as it becomes clear to him that The Darkness power is more than just a sinister force - it is an agent of rage-filled destruction hell-bent on ridding itself of Jackie once and for all. Writer Phil Hester (Superman: Confidential, Green Arrow) and rising star Michael Broussard (Unholy Union) put the stamp on their momentous first arc on The Darkness.”
Review: In the last issue, Jackie Estacado was left literally broken (in half) after struggling to regain his power, and his Darkness-created lover Elle gave birth to their son: a being of pure Darkness.
But apparently I missed something, because Jackie’s all badass and feeling well. Yeah, I know it was pretty clear that he would find his way back into the heart of the Darkness again, but they could have shown some link between him being disemboweled and then strutting around the jungle popping heads. Hrm.
That complaint aside, this is a fun end to a six-part storyline. Jackie reasserts his dominance as Ocaso—the Darkness—as he puts rebelling Darklings in their place and teaches his evil, newborn son some manners. And by manners I mean he pretty much destroys him with the sun. 
Sorry, was that a spoiler? Because that was, like, the coolest thing ever. Superman could learn a thing or two there about style.
The issue is basically one great fight scene, and the ending shows Jackie smirking for a well-deserved reason: yup, he’s back, and there’s no messing with him.
“Empire” was awesome; if you haven’t checked it out, do so! It’s been a fantastic read with gorgeous art. Pick it up!
You can see the preview over at the Top Cow blog.
October 20th, 2008 at 8:47 pm
Wow, I might have to get this one just for the Keown cover alone.
October 20th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
Not a big comic book girl myself, but I do enjoy me some Jackie… some Darkness!!!
October 20th, 2008 at 9:09 pm
Dang… maybe this character should be in a “top ten most menacing comic characters” list… that art is crisp!
October 20th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
Dale Keown is freaking awesome. What he did on the Hulk during the 90’s was the sh!t back then.
October 21st, 2008 at 7:46 am
Don’t forget Broussard’s pencils. They have been on fire this whole run.
October 26th, 2008 at 9:53 am
I’m so glad to see The Darkness here. I stumbled onto this website purely by chance. I’m a HUGE Darkness fan! Great review!