REVIEW: ‘Blue Beetle’ Issue #11

Blue Beetle #11 is published by DC Comics, written by Josh Trujillo, art by Adrián Gutiérrez, colors by Wil Quintana, and letters by Lucas Gattoni. This is the final issue in the series. In the aftermath of a brutal battle, the different parties come to terms with what happened.

This issue has a lot to finish up. There are plot threads for almost every character that has to reach a conclusion, and most of them do brilliantly. Even at the end of this run, the energy and enthusiasm still radiate from every page. The book features action and family drama, with the latter being some of the most profound of the entire series. Jaime’s family visits him, preventing him from getting to where he wants to go and forming complications across most of the issues. But a bit of the book also forces a fight, turning the pace frantic and adding action to an issue focused on character development.

The comic manifests blossoming love stories that have been hinted at across the series. There are also consequences for the actions taken by the antagonists, which isn’t always the case in comic books. You may see a character go to jail, but you rarely see them get sued in retribution. There are threads in this book that have more to tell, but they are rounded out with a satisfying full stop. But this isn’t an entirely conclusive ending, giving Palmera City a chance to return.

All of the significant characters in this Blue Beetle series are in this last chapter of the book. When seen in a single issue, it is fantastic to be confronted with all of the various story arcs that have been unfolding in this fun-loving series. Many are contemplating leaving the city, setting off on their own adventure, or departing due to feeling unsafe within the city limits.

We have not seen anything of Blue Beetle’s family within the previous ten issues, and they bring a chaotic energy into Jaime’s life. But a poignant and perfectly written monologue from his father is just what the young hero needed after so much turmoil in his life. Jaime has had to stand up for himself for much of the series, with almost all his mentors out of action. But now he has Ted Kord back and a brief visit from his father, who both set about helping him clear up all the loose ends.

The art is stunning within Blue Beetle #11. The comic has energy and vitality on every page, even when they are supposed to be quiet moments of contemplation. The characters are filled with emotion and movement, dancing around the place. It can be a dramatic and theatrical comic, with figures throwing their arms up in exasperation or excitement, but it provides the pages with momentum. This is heightened further in the action sequences. The characters’ speed is captured perfectly, whilst Gutiérrez also ensures that the details in their specific movements can be seen.

The colors have been one of the series’ most noticeable and enjoyable parts. The vibrancy on display in the Scarab armors has been captivating, almost dazzling. There are incredible details in the backgrounds, with textures in the sky and in the windows of the skyscrapers of Palmera City. But then there will be panels with a single-shade background, removing the place behind and focusing on the characters and their silhouettes. The letters have been creative and conducive to establishing voices for the figures within the book.

Blue Beetle #11 ends the most energetic book in DC’s arsenal. Having followed the series from start to finish, the personality and passion within the comic have been enthralling. The comic has been the DC’s answer to Power Rangers, with its colorful costumes, dramatic battles, and soap opera storytelling. The characters are personable, and the fight scenes always hit close to home, never leaving Palmera City. It’s a world that could have provided more stories, and Trujillo sets up the potential for more.

Blue Beetle #11 is available now wherever comics are sold.