“The Trial of Two-Face”
Writer: Christian Ward
Artists: Fabio Veras
Color Artist: Ivan Plascencia
Letterer: Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou
Review by Kendra Smart
Two-Face #4 is upon us and with it, a cataclysmic trial. “The Trial Of Two- Face” is an issue I have waited for. When last we left Harvey, he was splitting at the seams between courtroom duties and fending off himself with an internal mind prison. The ramifications of such a thing are curious, how much do we really know about this inner Dent? Before we enter the courtroom let’s take a moment to discuss the cover, a sickening take on the phrase” At war with one’s self.”. Baldemar Rivas does an astounding job of showing both version’s of Harvey splitting apart from himself. Which makes me want to know what lies beneath the pages all the more. So, let’s go.
“I’m Not Nothing. This Place Is Mine Too.”
As we enter Two-Face #4 there is no recap. Immediately the court is in session and the case against Harvey is in full swing as readers are lead down an insightful dual-sided introspective. An explanation is given by the side that Harvey has tried so hard to contain. The very reason he had a weakness to exploit to begin with. It is time to put all those actions on display and face the realities of what he is. Welcome to Wonderland, Alice, this is your life.
A retrospective to tune of the law unfolds as a new path is carved in the history of Harvey’s life. A tour begins through the reasons Harvey is the way he is. From his parent’s divorce and the isolated child who had to separate from pain, to the triumph of becoming an attorney. That fateful day in court. His other half is ready for his recompense, and the decision is in. But what impact will it have and just which Harvey is guilty?
The Day Two-Face Was Born
Christian Ward is a genius. Fabio Veras and Ivan Plascencia present visual greatness. There are many differences and depth added in Two-Face #4, and all of it uncovers Harvey more. The presentation of Harvey struggling with indecisiveness and the coin being a forced object to deal and cope with an abusive Father. The “other” side of Harvey gets a different explanation as well and I have to admit, I loved it. Christian presents a deeper side to the why’s of who Harvey is and how he operates, split though he is. His story deserves attention.
Conclusion
Two-Face #4 is a vital read to understand Ward’s version of Harvey Dent. It gives a reflection into his past and shows the path to who he has become, or wants to become. I am on the edge of my seat to see what awaits exiting the courtroom and watching as the new player unfolds their involvement.
