Lois Lane #5 (of 12): That’s Not How Journalism Works

Lois Lane #5 continues this title’s slow-burn success (weird shower scene last issue notwithstanding) and takes some moments to expound on the ethics and mechanics of journalism. The above scene where Lois has to explain that no, despite what you’ve heard about “fake news,” journalists aren’t allowed to make things up – and the later scene were she explains how off-the-record/deep background sourcing works – are maybe a bit didactic, but in these trying times, perhaps a bit of soapbox-preaching is what we all need.  And who better to spit truth than Lois Lane?

Greg Rucka is a modern master of the thriller, whether its in his novels or his comic ventures, from Queen & Country to Gotham Central to Lois Lane. Sure, he’s dipped his toes in the more straight-ahead superhero set periodically (dude loves his Wonder Woman), but just like Ed Brubaker or Brian Michael Bendis, his best work is always street-level. And that’s what this is – a street-level, old-school political potboiler that just happens to be set in the DC universe. Even when Superman shows up, the series never loses its ground-level view.

Artist Mike Perkins complements the story’s mood quite well, even when his art is a bit off-kilter. It doesn’t happen often, but there are occasional panels where someone’s face is off or their limbs look… funky. It’s a mild inconsistency at best, and any flaws are generally well-hidden by the ultra-heavy inks.

At the end of the day, though, this series is completely worth it. Rucka is bringing his A-game throughout, and although to a certain degree Lois is a mouthpiece for his own convictions, he sure isn’t wrong. Here’s to the next seven issues of greatness!