REVIEW: ‘Suicide Squad,’ Issue #9

Suicide Squad #9 is published by DC Comics, written by Tom Taylor, with art by Bruno Redondo, colors by Adriano Lucas, and letters by Wes Abbott. With their next target confirmed, the Squad must now decide how best to get their hands on Ted Kord. But with the billionaire gone to ground, the Squad first needs to come up with some intel. Luckily, they happen to posses just the right tools for the job. And the crew willing to do what they need to.

If there has been a theme running throughout this latest run of Suicide Squad it would be one of transformation. From the very first issue the Squad has been in a constant state of change. Whether the changes were of roster, goals or methodology, it has been a fascinating ride. And with the series approaching it’s end, it looks like the biggest changes may be yet to come.

Suicide Squad #9 opens with Chaos Kitten and Thylacine infiltrating the US Capitol Building to extract a Senator that they believe has the information they need on Kord. Needless to say, Congressional security never stands a chance against them. With their captive in tow they quickly figure out a persuasive way of getting the information they are after.

With this information in hand they can plan their assault on Kord’s current base of operations. Their approach to maintaining a stealthy entrance is unique. Taylor utilizes the team’s powers in the kind of creative way you love to see. And while his creativity is on display, it is one upped by his continued excellence in writing of Deadshot.

Before heading out, Lawton has a heart to heart with his daughter concerning what he does and how he does it. Taylor writes this moment with skill and grace. Zoe exemplifies the uncluttered outlook of the young. She sees the way it should be and cannot accept that it can’t be that way. And Lawton is the better for it.

The remainder of Suicide Squad #9 follows the Squad as they launch their assault on Kord’s HQ. I won’t go into details, but I will say this didn’t go the way I expected. A huge curveball comes in that completely surprised me. And just as I thought I had a handle on the situation, Taylor throws me for another loop. Absolutely fantastic writing.

Just as the writing once again delivers a wonderful performance the same can be said for the art. Redondo delivers art that works to enhance all the action and emotion of it’s plot. Coupled with Lucas’ continued vibrant color choices and Suicide Squad #9 maintains the gorgeous visual appeal it has held throughout it’s run.

The final touch to this package is Abbott’s solid job on lettering. The placement of all the text is excellent, and it never interferes with the art.

When all is said and done Suicide Squad #9 delivers an extremely well rounded package. Filled with heart, action, and a surprise end that demands reader stick around for the next issue, it is literally everything I could’ve asked for.

Suicide Squad #9 is available September 22nd wherever comics are sold.