“The New Pandoras”
Writer — Cullen Bunn
Artists — Clay Mann and Miguel Mendoca
[Warning: Potential Spoilers Ahead!]
For starters, Trinity #7 is visually stunning. The fine lines, well-rendered colors and incredible shadowing add a three dimensional depth to its sprawling panels. The shadowy darkness of Ra’s and the mechanical glow of Lex’ super suit provide a telling contrast between the two. Visually, this drives home the distance between the two. The tone is excellent throughout, as is the issue’s pacing.
Especially relevant to Trinity #7 is that it features three villains. Ra’s Al Ghul, Lex Luthor, and Circe form an unholy alliance—a new-look “Triumvirate of Terror.” Trinity #7 contains less dialogue than others–especially early on. However, the interaction that does appear delivers. The nuance of each character shines through as they engage in a delicate dance of manipulation and mistrust. Internal monologue adds depth and layers to this plot. We are privy to their thoughts—about their situation, their doubts, and their motivations. Delightful tension is bred. We know it’s only a matter of time before these villains get cross!
Perhaps the most interesting character here is Circe. A Greek goddess and enchantress, Circe, plays a well-known role in Homer’s epic, The Odyssey. Described as incredibly beautiful, the enchantress seduces Odysseus’ men into drinking poison which turns them into swine. Athena sends Hermes, who assists Odysseus by providing the poison’s antidote. Consequently, Odysseus protects himself from her poison and its affects. While Odysseus sets his men free, he begins an ill-fated romantic relationship between the human and goddess. Circe bore Odysseus three sons, one of which mistakenly kills him with a poisoned spear.
Here, Circe introduces the “Pandora Pits,” whose waters are primed with power and potency to create and destroy. Ominously, Circe recounts the legend of Pandora, whose curiosity unleashed great evil on the world. As a result, Pandora Pits form. Three of these pits create a unique being—a composite of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman! As a result, the three villains are tested. Within the deformed creature, each sees their own enemy—Ra’s sees Batman; Lex, Superman; and Circe, Wonder Woman. Of course, the three quickly realize they must combine forces to defeat their common foe.
Conclusion
Surprisingly, in Trinity #7 the titular heroes are all but missing. Outside of one-panel memories, only villains appear in this issue. However, Bunn uses these three villains to write the beginnings of one compelling drama. I found myself incredibly impressed with the substance and feel of Trinity #7. I enjoyed this issue way more than I thought I would. Consequently, Trinity #7 is a terrific start to a new narrative arch.
Images courtesy of DC Entertainment.