All The Right Ingredients
There's a new Justice League series? Why yes, there IS.
Scott Snyder and Jim Cheung bring together a number of different elements in the first issue of this new Justice League series. It begins with what looks like a comet or fireball streaking across space - and time. It is seen from many points in time; years from now, years ago and right now. That is almost mindful of the finale of Star Trek: The Next Generation. An epic event that occurs across space and time.
Snyder and Cheung have brought together an interesting combination of League members. Brought together is a blend of different League eras. The best part, more than likely what everyone will be talking about for some time, is the return of J'onn J'onzz. he was replaced at the start of The New 52 with Victor Stone's Cyborg, from the New Teen Titans. The team is a blend of the Classic era, with the Animated Series and New 52 line-up. What's nice is that the team seems more like friends and colleagues - y'know, people that might actually get along and work together, rather than butt heads and bicker. The opening battle sequence is reminiscent of the opening to Avengers: Age of Ultron.
While the League discovers what the event hurtling across space is, Luthor has already come to the conclusion and confronted Vandal Savage. It's all very dramatic, the way Luthor reveals how he's countered Savage's moves. Luthor has brought together his own blend of ingredients. At this point, Snyder seems to be channeling Super Friends, and maybe a little of Alex Ross' Justice.
Action gives way to exposition.
All that's left is the big question: What happens next?
Snyder, Cheung, Morales, Morey and Napolitano are aiming for an epic, grandiose feel here. Mileage may vary on that. Like any story, it tugs at curiosity. Success or failure hinges on how that curiosity is satisfied. It's great to see The Martian Manhunter back at the heart and center of the team. Opinions differ as to his role in the Multiverse. But it is good to see him as League Chairman, guiding and directing his comrades in action. The failure, isolation and loneliness he feels here is similar to what Superman went through in Justice's opening.
It will be interesting to see the twists and turns that are in store on this roller coaster ride.
Justice League 1 earns four stars for bringing together familiar ingredients for fresh "comfort" eye candy.