Review – Doctor Fate #3

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Doctor Fate (2015) #3 – DC Comics
Written by Paul Levitz
Art by Sonny Liew
Colors by Lee Loughridge
Letters by Nick J. Napolitano
Anyone who has been reading Doctor Fate since the first issue comes out knows that Khalid, the one chosen to wear the Helmet of Fate, is still getting used to it.  To be more specific, used to being a hero and seeing himself as someone who can save the world.   In the third issue it seems he’s finally getting the hang of it…sort of.  His family should be in turmoil after what happened with his father, but no one really seems rattled.  That is, except for Khalid’s father, who sense something very evil is at work.
We do get to see him gain confidence when he is able to do something that he couldn’t do in the previous issue with his new found powers.  You get the sense that this book is about to make a turn to a more confident hero.  Levitz has balanced that very well with the fact that we are talking about a kid who is supposed to be starting med school.  Being educated and logical, he can’t wrap his mind around the fact that he’s wearing this crazy talking helmet and he can now fly.  I would like to see more of a dark and evil tone from Anubis in future issues, to give things a real sense of doom.
So far, this series really has felt like one, long #1 issue.  I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, but I do think the transition needs to be made soon with a clear path set going forward.  As someone who has always loved Doctor Fate, it’s nice to see a different take on the character and take him back almost a Year One.  The art from Sonny Liew has definitely grown on me more and more now that we’re three issues in.  Nick J. Napolitano’s letters really make this book pop and give it that ancient Egyptian feel that they’re going for.  If you’re a Fate fan, or just of Egyptian mythology, this is a pull for you.  If you’re not sure, it’s definitely still worth picking up.
Rating: PICK-UP