Hang Up on the Hang Low (100 Bullets, Book 3)

Hang up on the Hang Low takes 100 Bullets in a new direction, using the basic premise as only a setup, and spending most of its time on the relationship between a father and son. This TPB does not do much to expand the mythology of the books world, but it tells a strong standalone story.

The main relationship in this story arc is between Loop and his "Pops." Loops father had left him before he was born, and, thanks to Agent Graves, Loop gets a chance to find out what his father is like. Their relationship is the core of the story, its essential to the arc that it works. Azzarello once again demonstrates his incredible skill in creating characters. Loop is well defined, and his relationship with his father is developed well. It seems legitimate, and realistic considering they dont know each other very well.

Once the relationship is set up, Azzarello destroys it. The second half of the arc is extremely well done, with Loops rage coming through. What could have been a simple tale of revenge becomes an emotional journey, that is fulfilling when it comes to its conclusion.

The final issue ties a lot of things together. Lono returns, seeking vengeance on Loops cousin, who assaulted him in Miami, back in Split Second Chance. What was a confusing background subplot comes to the foreground here, and nicely ties everything together, connecting Loops story to the larger plot. One of Azzarellos greatest skills is his ability to turn silent background plots into major events in later issues. New readers arent left out of anything, and long time readers get an added bonus.

Overall, this collection doesnt add too much to the overall story, but its a great standalone. However, Hang Up doesnt reach the heights of the second book. Theres nothing really wrong, but the ghetto story has been done before in the book, and it lacks the potent originality of some previous stories. Its still a great collection, and a thrilling read.