Advance Review: Artwork Goes To The Dogs In `Deep Space Nine – The Dog Of War’ #1
by Tom Smithyman
Wars can change people’s perspectives and challenge their ethics and morals in ways they never dreamed possible.
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine demonstrated that in a chilling fashion as the usually upright Federation fought the evil Dominion. Faced with their own extinction, characters we knew and loved made difficult and often unforeseen decisions. As dangerous as that conflict with the shapeshifters was, though, it pales in comparison to the threat of the Borg. This series teases both but softens the blow with Latinum. No, not the futuristic currency, but rather the Corgi.
The dog of war in this case is a rare purebred that Quark is holding for a client. The dog is so valuable that the mysterious client even sent over Borg technology as collateral. That has Captain Benjamin Sisko and crew feeling antsy, but others in the Federation see an opportunity to use Borg technology to tip the war in their favor.
It’s a good setup from writer Mike Chen. There’s enough intrigue to keep readers guessing as to the clients’ identity and whether this is all some kind of setup. And any chance to revisit DS9 – particularly given the changeling’s involvement in the Paramount+ streamer Star Trek: Picard – is a welcome one. Chen even brings back crooner Vic Fontaine in the unlikely role of dog sitter.
As interesting as the script is, the artwork is wildly inconsistent. Artist Angel Hernandez, assisted by colorist Nick Filardi, delivers some gorgeous panels, but astoundingly, they are followed up with what look like outlines. Oddly, sometimes he mixes both in the same panel. Nailing the look of characters we love can be challenging, yet many of Hernandez’ images of Quark are amazing. Still others look unfinished – like his first draft went right to print. It’s a shame and leaves the reader wondering what could have been.
Given the significant issues with the artwork, it remains to be seen whether this series will be readers’ best friend or if it has already gone to the dogs.
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine – The Dog of War #1 will be available for purchase tomorrow.
Overview
Some solid writing isn’t enough to save head-scratchingly inconsistent artwork. What should be a romp with a dog on a space station instead is an exercise in understanding what you’re looking at. Oddly enough, some panels are magnificent while others are just sloppy.
