Publisher: Image
Art by: Sid Kotian
Written by: Michael Straczynski
The second issue of Dream Police excels where the first issue lacked; it effectively covers all bases and constructs a strong foundation for the Dreamscape, without bogging the reader down with exposition.
Detective Joe Thursday returns, but already there is an imminent puzzle; what happened to his partner, Frank Stafford? Issue 1 concluded with this cliffhanger; Frank leaves and Katie returns, claiming she was always his partner. More interestingly, Joe doesn’t realize what happened.
Sid Kotian’s art is utterly impressing, as he is able to capture the essence of the Dreamscape on the pages of Dream Police. The various types of people we see in the Dreamscape are drawn superbly. Kotian is also adept at capturing the noir nature of the adventure, while maintaining the fantasy element in terms of the wisps and the drug-addled dreamer.
Michael Straczynski is able to sculpt characters with ease, an ability that helps him tell a story in a hackneyed genre. His aptitude to deliver us a compelling narrative is prominent, but he must demonstrate it in coming issues.
The issue’s start with an introduction of the Dreamscape felt unnecessary, yet necessary. It was not needed as we were already acquainted with this world, but it provides a better explanation than the first issue did.
The humor in Dream Police is wry and socially apt; one example of this was Detective Joe’s order to the dreamer, “Step away from the enlightenment and keep your preconceived notions where we can see them.” This line is an obvious parody of police officers and their dialogue with criminals.
The entrance of the Supervisor was one highlight of this issue. The purpose of mankind and their existence was dealt with beautifully, for a narrative closely tied to such themes.
As I don’t want to spoil the entire issue, I will recommend this issue simply because it forms the solid foundation on which future issues can build the storyline.
