Hawkman by Geoff Johns,James Robinson,Justin Gray,Jimmy Palmiotti,Rags Morales,Ryan Sook, and Joe Bennett
Vol.1 Endless Flight
Vol.2 Allies and Enemies
Vol.3 Wings of Fury
#28-36(uncollected - Fate's Warning 4 parter,done in ones featuring Atom,Monolith,Deadman)
Vol.4 Rise of the Golden Eagle
For anybody wanting to get into the character,this 45 issue run is essential and probably definitive in terms of Hawkman.Out of all the big guns of the DCU,this run is highly underrated and probably the best ongoing run.The main thing to love about this run,is the perfect combination of superhero action,character study,deconstruction,heavy use of recurring themes,classic adventure and emotional investment.In everything Johns has written,this is probably his most fantasy/adventure filled approach to writing,much different than his writing on books like Green Lanten,Titans or JSA.
The history of Hawkman may seem confusing,but Johns explains it all with much ease and makes the whole reincarnation idea one of the main themes of this run.He uses it with alot of tragedy and sadness,Hawkman has had to deal with losing his loved ones over and over again,this is why he fights so hard to save lives.It's also why he questions the need to love people,when he knows he will just pass them by.
Johns explores many of these past lives to really build the character and it's just beautiful to read.It really puts the whole interest in archaeology into perspective,Carter is simply interested in gathering all the things he left behind in his past lives.From visiting different countries to see his gravestones to keeping a box of pictures of all the loved ones he has lost in these past lives,Johns really brings out Carter's character from under the stereotyped winged brute.
There are many supporting roles and cameos here.Hawkgirl,Green Arrow,Ray Palmer,Dr.Fate,and many more.His history with many of these characters is explained as well as his stints in the JLA and JSA.It will not take a hardcore DC fan to realize that Green Arrow and Hawkman dislike each other or that Hawk and Atom are the best of friends.These rel'ps are all made clear and do not confuse new readers.
In terms of action,it comes in boatloads.This is one of the defining aspects of Hawkman that really separates his from the other big guns of the DCU.The idea of when he puts the helmet on,he becomes this brutal merciless warrior who uses nothing but deathblows.Carter is constantly struggling with his savage nature and does not always keep it in check.Seeing Hawkman go ape**** on anyone from street thugs,supervillains or monsters with a mace is always brutal but fun to watch.There's bloody mutilations,head smashing,limb breaking and beheading for all to enjoy.
Rags Morales has to be commended for his new yet classic take on Hawkman.The menacing look of the hawk helmet,the addition of a variety of deadly weapons and the barbaric movements when in action,this isn't your grandaddy's Hawkman,all due respect of course.
If you ever were curious about Hawkman's character,looking for a truly solid read unlike any typical cape book or looking to see what makes Hawkman one of a kind in the DCU,look no further than this run.
Highly recommended.
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