I’m known for stories that build off the rich continuity that DC has. So when the idea of an entire line-wide relaunch was discussed, I knew it would stir controversy, which I’ve never been a big fan of. I knew it would change characters I was already comfortable with. And I knew I would have to completely re-think how I was going to approach everything I was writing. But I also knew it was a chance for every writer and artist to turn their focus on the one other thing that makes DC great: its characters.
- Geoff Johns, DC Chief Creative Officer Controversy is what fueled this new wave of 52 comic books that DC has unleashed onto the public, with the starting act being Justice League #1. The concept is ambitious, yet at the same time, it's beginner friendly in its execution. As I write this review, I already caught the attention of a couple of my college buddies towards The New 52. So while this is fueled in controversy, it creates attention, it creates sales. Looking around the internet, and you'll see comic book shops displaying how much people went to buy this comic that is vital to possibly revitalize the comic book medium, as a whole. With all said and done, has Justice League #1 delivered an impressive opening salvo? Join me as I review the all-new Justice League #1.
The Good
Geoff Johns, fresh off ending the relatively past DC Universe, joins with Jim Lee and Scott Williams, to deliver an impressive opening into the DCnU, with Batman being chased by choppers of the GCPD, while chasing an otherworldly threat. To their credit, the action is intense from the opening of the issue, complete with an appearance by Geoff Johns' beloved take on Green Lantern, and the "new" Superman. The dialogue varies from serious to funny, making a testament to Johns' ability to switch the mood of the dialogue as it proceeds into the issue. He also does a great job of making a backstory for Victor Stone, who will become Cyborg eventually. The eventual set-up for Batman versus Superman, while short and sudden, serves as a great setup for Issue #2. Johns and Lee have made an issue that is very accessible to new readers, while making current comic book readers a book that acknowledges the history that took prior to the reboot. As an added treat, it gives a couple of pages that hold sketches of the current JL roster.
The Bad
While the book delivers a new reader friendly opening, and as exciting the opening sequence is, it seemed too sudden, and the ending of the issue was too convenient. The backstory to Cyborg, was a nice touch, but it shoehorned itself into the main story. In hindsight, it was good, but at the same time, it had its small problems as well.
The Verdict
This opening issue of Justice League #1 is a fantastic read, which is a sentiment shared by new readers and seasoned readers alike. While it has its small problems, it also has the benefit of being a great start to a new DC Universe. Whether you're a veteran DC Universe reader or a newcomer into the world of comics, this book is a great way to immerse into the DCnU, without being lost in the shuffle. Get this book, it's worth the read.
4/5 SOLID BUY
