Justice League #24 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Ivan Reis

This series as a whole as been amazing and one of the series that I've enjoyed the most since the start of the New 52 two years ago. It has however gotten even better since the start of Trinity War and now that Forever Evil has started I'm sure it will continue to be just as brilliant.

Plot

Ultraman's origin is revealed whilst in the present he pays the Daily Planet a visit.

Review

This was a fantastic issue and a brilliant Ultraman story. Geoff Johns continues to do an amazing job on this series, doing a great job of tie-in this in with the events of Forever Evil without taking anything away from the main event itself. Johns also did a great job of transitioning from Ultraman's origin story to the present, with the narration from Ultraman throughout this issue also being amazing. Johns would also add a lot of drama and suspense in this issue, with the tone being perfect for both the characters and the event as a whole. I did however feel that this issue was too much of a set-up for Forever Evil #3, as although it was very exciting and enjoyable, I couldn't help but feel that it was ever so slightly incomplete.

The artwork in this issue was simply phenomenal with Ivan Reis producing some of his finest work. The detail throughout this issue was simply outstanding, as although there were a couple of minor imperfections they are very hard to notice, and overall the detail was very consistent throughout. The layouts of Reis's art was also amazing, adding a lot of depth and tone to the issue, helping the story to flow smoothly. The action and character emotions would also be brilliantly handled, adding a lot of excitement and realism to the issue. On top of all that Reis would also produce an amazing cover that was a brilliant homage to Jim Lee's cover for the first issue of the series.

This issue would start by re-telling Ultraman's origin. Now for anyone who knows Ultraman's origin this may or may not interest you, but having not read it myself I personally really enjoyed the re-telling, feeling that it was the perfect start to this Ultraman themed issue. What I especially enjoyed was that although it was very similar to Superman's origin, it was much darker and grittier, with everything having a bad natured tone to it. Ultraman as a child would also be rather creepy, with his red eyes reminding me of Damien from the Omen.

In the present part of this issue Ultraman would pay a visit to the Daily Planet, to see just how different the staff are compared to their Earth-3 counterparts. This was a very intense and exciting sequence, and I especially loved how Ultraman exerted his dominance, and how angry he got over the differences between these characters compared to their Earth-3 counterparts. I also yet again loved the dark tone to this, as if it was Superman doing this I would have hated it, but cause it's Ultraman it's very dramatic and intense.

This issue would also see a fight between Ultraman and Black Adam. Now I won't go into any detail as to how the fight started, but I will say my thoughts on the fight. First of all I loved that it happened, as following the tease in Forever Evil #2 I was looking forward to the two squaring off. I also found it funny that Black Adam was actually the hero here, as having been considered a villain it's easy to forget that his intentions are usually good, just not always moral. It was however a shame that it didn't end in this issue, but in saying that I'm even more excited for Forever Evil #3 now.

Final Verdict

This was an outstanding issue, as although not necessary for anyone who is only interested in the bare essentials of Forever Evil, it was still an exciting read, retelling Ultraman's origin in a very dark and gritty way that contrasts Superman's origins perfectly. There would also be some brilliant action as well, as although it was mainly setting up Forever Evil #3 it was still very exciting, also being suspenseful. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue as it was a very fun and entertaining read.

Rating: 9/10

Justice League #23 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Ivan Reis

As a whole this series has been fantastic, and although it's not been the best that DC has produced, it hasn't been far off, having produced some fabulous storylines so far. The current Trinity War story that finishes this issue has however intrigued me the most recently, and I look forward to seeing how it leads into Forever Evil.

Plot

All the heroes have assembled in Greece, with Pandora's Box turning everyone against each other, with The Outsider makes this play to his advantage.

Review

This was a phenomenal issue, and easily the best issue in the story, ending on a high note. Geoff Johns has done a great job in wrapping this story up, whilst also setting the following storyline up perfectly. The drama, and suspense in this issue was also amazing well handled, as Johns managed to give the perfect tone for this issue, making it exciting, whilst also being entertaining. The dialogue in this issue was also spectacular, as with the amazing action in this issue you could easily forgive less than perfect dialogue, but you don't have to with this, as it's simply amazing, being extremely dynamic. I also loved the revelation of all the mystery, and look forward to seeing what Johns has in store with Forever Evil.

The art from Ivan Reis in this issue was simply astonishing, and truly some of the best work that he has every produced. From the amazing re-telling of previous Justice League events at the start of the issue, to the phenomenal action in the present, Reis managed to excel in all areas. The detail was also outstanding, as with all that was happening in this issue you'd probably expect very small imperfections, but if there are, they're hard to notice. I also loved the amazing emotion that Reis showed on the characters, which was simply fantastic, adding a lot of depth to the issue. Reis' layouts were also once again sensational, being very dynamic, and I especially loved all the double pages that he added.

This issue would start with a quick re-telling of the Justice League's adventures up till now, whilst also telling The Outsider's story. Now I found this a very interesting way of allowing new readers to quickly get up to date with the events that the Justice League have been a part of. I also loved this monologue from the Outsider, giving an insight into his personal journey as well, building up to the revelation of who he truly is. I also loved how this mystery was solved, and I was surprised that I didn't catch on as to who he really was sooner.

This issue would also have a huge fight between all the superheroes over Pandora's Box. I just loved how it started gradually, going from Constantine warning them, to a full scale war. I was also happy to see some re-drawing from The New 52 FCBD Special Edition as although there was some minor changes, it shows that this is truly the same event that was teased all that time ago. I also loved the dialogue during this sequence, and I loved that we got to see some of the characters deepest, and truest feelings, as although it's the box that has turned them bitter, it's obvious that the characters actually have these feelings, which was nice, making it feel more realists.

The revelation of the Outsiders traitor was also revealed in this issue, and although I won't go into any details, or reveal their identity as to avoid spoilers, I will say what I thought of this revelation. To be honest I wasn't that surprised as to who the traitor was, and although this choice worked well with the story so far, it would have been nicer for it to have been a bigger surprise, with more shock value to it. I did however love the reactions from the character to this revelation, and look forward to seeing if there's any follow-up to this in Forever Evil or not.

Final Verdict

This was a truly amazing issue, and a phenomenal way to end the story. It managed to end this story on a shocking, and entertaining note, whilst setting up the next storyline perfectly. It also had plenty of action, as well as tremendous suspense, drama, and excitement. The revelations within were also outstanding, and due to this I can't wait till Forever Evil. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue, but would also recommend the entire story as well, as there's only one reason to get it otherwise. That reason would be for anyone who's missed this but is getting Forever Evil, as this is a great set-up for that.

Rating: 10/10

Justice League #22 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Ivan Reis

This has been a brilliant series over the last couple of years, and although it's not always been amazing, it's usually been good. It is however this crossover that excites me more, as I've been looking forward to it since it was teased in The New 52 FCBD Special Edition last June.

Plot

As Shazam (Billy Batson) heads to Kahndaq to scatter Black Adam's ashes, he is intercepted by the Justice League, who in turn are intercepted by the Justice League of America.

Review

This was an amazing issue, and a brilliant way to start to Trinity War. Geoff Johns has done an amazing job of starting this story, making it both suspenseful, as well as exciting. I also loved how added to the suspense was a layer of mystery, with some action not necessarily being clean cut, leaving questions opened. I also feel that Johns has moved on perfectly from all the set-up in both Justice League, and Justice League of America, with even the conclusion of the Shazam back-ups playing a role. The action was also handled perfectly, though there was the odd controversial moment that will rile some people up, though I personally think that adds to the drama, and suspense.

The art from Ivan Reis was as usual, amazing, and I'm extremely happy that he's returned for this story. The detail in his work is simply outstanding, with very few imperfections, which are usually in character's that are in the distance. Reis' layouts were also brilliant, adding more depth to the story, as well as adding to the overall tone, and drama. Where Reis excels though is in his action sequences, as he draws some of the most explosive action sequences that I've ever seen in comics. Reis also does a fabulous job with the character's, and especially showing their feeling, and emotions, with the facial expressions being extraordinarily good.

This issue started with a woman visiting Madame Xanadu who whilst reading her fortune cards learns of the upcoming Trinity War. Now this was a nice way to start the issue, and with the story apparently being centred around magic, and the Trinity of Sin it was fitting to have a magical character start the story off. The sequence itself also added some suspense, and mystery to the issue, giving the issue that much more of an atmosphere. It also acts as a brilliant way to introduce the Justice League Dark into the series, as although she left them at the end of the last issue of Justice League Dark, she's bound to be the reason for them joining this fight.

The way that Shazam was introduced into this story, and how he inadvertently caused the start of this war was nice, making the conclusion to his back-up story much more impactful, as well as a brilliant way of introducing him into the DCnU properly. I also loved how during this you could still tell that there was a kid controlling this metahuman, and it was interesting to see Shazam, and Superman square off, and how Shazam reacted to that.

Now what I was waiting for in this story was to see the two Justice League's square off, and although the issue builds up to this, we get to see the start of the fight in this issue. Now this is brilliant, as it means that readers don't have to wait to see the teams square off. It does however give Johns an interesting task of pacing this fight, and I'm sure he'll find ways to have breaks that will make the story stretch the six issues. I also loved how there was a little controversy in this fight, and although it's bound to make people upset, I feel it adds more excitement.

Final Verdict

This was a amazing issue, and the best that this series has seen since Throne of Atlantis. It was very exciting, with suspense, and drama evened out through the issue, with some mystery added in. It also had some amazing action, and some questionable events, making me want to read the next part of this story even more than I would have before this issue. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue as it's amazing, and exciting. It also appears to be a vital story for the future of the DCnU so I'd even recommend it to non JL, JLA, or JLD fans.

Rating: 5/5

Justice League #19 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Ivan Reis

This has been an amazing series, and although it's not always hit the top mark quality wise, it's always been interesting, and overall the series is amazing. Also with the upcoming Trinity War which will also include Justice League of America, and Justice League Dark it's a very exciting time to be a Justice League fan.

Plot

Someone breaks into the Batcave, and steals something. Also Superman, and Wonder Woman travel to Kahndaq to help the people, and Firestorm, and Atom (Rhonda Pineda) wait for the Justice League in the Justice League Satellite.

Shazam! Part 11

Billy Batson travels with his friends to try and get rid of the power of Shazam! but Francesca tells him the origin of Black Adam.

Review

This was a brilliant issue, and the series is back to being brilliant again. Last issue was a little poor, and although it was interesting it let the series down, but thankfully Geoff Johns has managed to bring the quality back up to what I expect, by producing an amazing issue. Johns did an amazing job of giving something that was not just exciting, but interesting, as there was plenty of action in this issue, but also mystery, and drama. There was also fun moments in this story as well, which was nice, as it added another layer to the overall tone of the issue. I also loved how Johns has managed to continue previous story plots like the development of Superman, and Wonder Woman's relationship, as well as introducing new elements. This issue however wasn't quite perfect, as at times it felt a bit slow, and it also felt like too much was going on at once, but overall it was still amazing.

The art was amazing, and I was ecstatic to see Ivan Reis back on the series. Now I know that it was only one issue that he was absent for, and Jesus Saiz didn't do a bad job of filling in, but it was solicited that Reis would be doing the art for the last issue, and I was disappointed when it wasn't the case, also questioning if the solicits for the following issues were also true or not. Anyway, Reis did a phenomenal job of the artwork, and he really seems to suit this series, as I've never seen a bad piece of art from him so far. I also love how Reis is able to draw vast amount of characters in one sequence without losing any detail, as the detail is amazing, with everything looking perfect. Reis' art is also very dramatic, as the way he lays it out, it really gives more depth. The emotion on the character's expressions are also fabulous, as he even manages to show emotion on Red Hood (Jason Todd), and considering he's got a helmet covering his face that isn't easy.

I'll start by talking about the cover, and although I don't usually talk much about covers unless they're amazing, this time I'm talking about it cause it's misleading. The cover show Batman using his Kryptonite Ring against Superman, which suggests that there's a reason Batman needs to do this, Batman's getting controlled somehow, or that there's an imposter Batman. None of these were the case, as it was actually that someone stole Batman's Kryptonite Ring from his Batcave. Although this made it more interesting, and mysterious it was still slightly disappointing.

When the robber stole the Kryptonite Ring, it appeared to be from a box with Superman's emblem on it, and there appeared to be a box for each Justice League member. Although I've not actually read JLA: Tower of Babel, I have read the plot online, and this appears to be in a very similar vein, as Batman appears to have contingencies against all the members, but with actual objects being stored instead of computer files. I do like it when the New 52 throwback to a previous story from pre-New 52, but at the same time I always question whether it's necessary, and the right thing to do. I'm still not quite sure whether this is the right thing, as Johns probably could have thought of something a little more unique, but with the team still being fairly new, and Batman being mistrusting it's an interesting element, and with Trinity War coming up it makes the build-up more exciting. This also made me question how Batman got the Kryptonite Ring in the first place as pre-New 52 he was given it by Superman himself, but it appears that this is no longer the case.

The introduction of Atom to this issue was brilliant, and although she's appeared before this is the first real time we get to see more of her. I liked how she was introduced in a fun way, and although I won't spoil it, I will say that it was very clever, as well as fun. The interaction between Atom and Firestorm was also interesting, but I found Firestorm taking to himself out loud a bit confusing, as usually it's obvious that they're two people in one, whereas this just looked like one person with a split personality. I don't however follow The Fury of Firestorm: The Nuclear Men so I don't know if there have been any developments there that would explain that, but I still found it a bit weird, and confusing.

The development in Superman, and Wonder Woman's relationship was brilliant in this issue, and I was happy to see it continue. We've had their relationship develop on and off since their famous kiss in Justice League #12, but with there always being something happening in between there hasn't been a lot of chance for proper development, so it was nice to see some in this issue. Seeing them working together was brilliant, but the thing that interested me the most was how Batman felt on the subject. It was revealed in Justice League #14 that Batman knew of Superman, and Wonder Woman's relationship, but we've never actually seen his opinion on the subject. I won't go into any details as to avoid spoilers, but it was very interesting, and I look forward to seeing how it develops in the next issue.

The Shazam! back-ups have been one of the best things about this series over the last year, and although the series itself has still been awesome, with Throne of Atlantis being exceptionally brilliant, this has been the thing that I look forward to the most. This was not the best chapter in the story so far, but it was still brilliant, and very interesting. I really liked the emotion that was shown throughout, especially from Billy, as he seemed to be a bit frightened at the star, but changes gradually throughout. I also loved seeing the backstory to Black Adam, as it showed brilliant insight into the character, and why he's possibly the way he is. I did however also like that there was mystery left with this, as although it revealed certain things about Black Adam's backstory, it still left with me questioning whether there was more to it, which I'm sure there is. It was also nice to see Francesca back, and although I don't know much about her personally, I found her an interesting character last time round, and was happy to see her make another appearance. Gary Frank's artwork on this chapter was also brilliant, and like always it was amazing, with fantastic detail, and also showing brilliant character emotion, and drama.

Final Verdict

This was a brilliant issue, and although the series is still not quite as good as it was during Throne of Atlantis, it's still very exciting, and interesting, and the way the series is going in the build up to Trinity War is fantastic. I also loved the mysteriousness of the issue, and the Shazam! back-up story continues to be an amazing addition, and one of the best things about the series. Although last issue was disappointing I'd highly recommend this one as the series is back to it's average level of quality, and this issue itself was amazing.

Rating: 4/5

Justice League #17 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artists: Ivan Reis & Paul Pelletier

I have been thoroughly enjoying this series, and with the new Justice League of America starting this week hopefully we'll have double the fun. This storyline has been brilliant, and I'm really looking forward to seeing exactly how it affects the future issues of this series, Aquaman, and even the new Justice League of America series.

Plot

The final battle begins, as the Justice League make a final fight against the Atlanteans, and Aquaman faces of against his brother the Ocean Master in a fight for the crown of Atlantis.

Review

This was a brilliant way to end the Throne of Atlantis storyline, and Geoff Johns has done a fabulous job. I wasn't entirely sure what to expect from this issue as the storyline so far although good has been slightly unpredictable. What I liked most about the writing however was that although it showed a brilliant climax to the story, it also showed teasers for things to come, and showed that Johns was thinking ahead. Although Johns centered most of this final issue around the final confrontation between Aquaman, and Ocean Master it was still nice to see that he gave time for the other characters to have there moment, and I especially liked that he showed non League members like Hawkman, and Firestorm, especially Hawkman considering he'll be apart of the Justice League of America.

Once again Ivan Reis produces some of the most beautiful artwork I have ever seen. As I've said before I will miss him on Aquaman, but he is much more suited on this series. Reis' artwork is very detailed, and looks nothing shy of epic. Some of the pages are that vastly character/item contented (especially the double page landscapes) and there isn't any lack of detail, whereas a lot of artists wouldn't focus much, or sometimes any effort on the detail for background characters, but Reis does. The emotion throughout was also very nice, especially during the Aquaman/Ocean Master fight, as it's obvious that Aquaman doesn't want to fight his brother, but it's came to the stage that Aquaman is that frustrated that he can't hold anything back. It was also nice to see some art from the new Aquaman artist Paul Pelletier in a couple of pages at the back. I usually complain when more than one artist work on the same comic, but it was nice this time round, as it was only a few pages, and it mainly centered around the future of Aquaman. Rod Reis, and Nathan Eyring also produced some amazing colours throughout this issue, making Ivan Reis, and Pelletier's artwork look even more beautiful than it already is.

How can I do this review without talking about the Aquaman/Ocean Master battle. It was nothing short of epic, and I'm glad that it ruled the majority of the issue. It was really interesting as it got to the point that although Aquaman didn't want the throne of Atlantis there was no other way to stop the fight than to go for it. Although some people may have worked out the ending of the fight I won't say it, as I don't want to deliberately spoil it, and apologies to anyone that's worked it out. The thing I loved most about this fight was the emotion, as it was obvious that Aquaman was in two minds during the fight, whilst it mainly showed his frustration, and anger. The Ocean Masters actions during the fight were also interesting as he appeared to show little concern for Aquaman, whilst stating that he loved him, and always wanted a brother, which I didn't quite buy. In saying that it was very difficult to understand what was true and not from Ocean Master, as when he was fighting Aquaman he showed no remorse, and had evil intentions in his expressions, but at certain points he looked slightly sorry, which made it slightly confusing.

The only disappointing thing in the story was the involvement of Vulko. After revealing that he caused this I was expecting a lot more to be shown between Aquaman and Vulko during this issue, but nothing much happened. Although Vulko produced an explanation for his actions it appeared that the main reason for this to be in the story was to have a cliffhanger conclusion to the last issue of Aquaman.

I'll finally talk about how this leads into the future of the Justice League. It has been shown back in Justice League #12 that this there was going to be a second Justice League team, in another title, and the series has been gradually leading up to this ever since. What I liked about this story line is that it gave the perfect reason for this secondary team to come into existence, and it also leaves questions about what this means for the already established Justice League. It's obvious that the League alone isn't enough to stop ever threat, and even the now know this themselves, but with someone like Amanda Waller leading this new team will the current League be seen as friends or foes.

The only thing that I was slightly upset at was that the Shazam! (Billy Batson) back-up story was missing. It's been the thing I most look forward to in this series, but overall I'm actually happy that it's missing, as the issue really needed all of the 30 pages to tell the remainder of the story in.

Final Verdict

This was a fantastic climax to a fabulous story. Between Johns writing, and Reis' artwork it is an phenomenally epic issue, and it leaves so many possibilities for the future of the series. I would highly recommend this issue, the series, and this entire story, as they are all brilliant. I'd also recommend getting the new Justice League of America series, as with this finale is a huge teaser for that series.

Rating: 5/5

Justice League #16 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Ivan Reis

Initially I wasn't going to review this issue, or the remaining issues in the Throne of Atlantis crossover due to not being able to review everything I wanted to. I however wanted to review the final issue of the crossover, and thought that it wouldn't make sense missing a couple, so went back to review this issue.

Plot

Aquaman has to fight between both sides, and the rest of the Atlantean army coming to play, leaving little hope for the surface dwellers.

Shazam! Part 9

In the backup story featuring Shazam! (Billy Batson), Shazam!, and Black Adam finally meat each other in an epic fight.

Review

This crossover has been truly brilliant, and although the first two parts weren't perfect the storyline is finally becoming strong. I've loved most of Geoff Johns work over the last few years, and although this series has had a few rough patches, it has been one of my favourites. The way he integrates all these characters is just brilliant, and he knows exactly when to add some development to the team. After the gripping conclusion to last issue I was really looking forward to this issue, and where Aquaman's allegiances lie. What I've especially loved about this storylines is how Johns has been able to connect the two series together, and how he's taken every character into consideration, even though it mainly centres around Aquaman.

Although I'm still slightly upset that Ivan Reis won't be drawing Aquaman any more I'm very happy that he's moved onto this series, and overall I think he's more suited here. Although Aquaman is a brilliant comic with all the additional characters floating about in this series it needs a brilliant artist, especially now that Jim Lee won't be on it any more as he will be working on a new Superman series with Scott Snyder. This was also the best storyline to do the switch, as due to Aquaman being the main character it makes the transition from both series a lot smoother. Anyway Reis once again blows my mind with his artwork, and everything looks amazing, and I truly think that Reis can jump on any series and make it look beautiful. The fight sequences in this issue were epic, and Reis really produced the goods, making them look even better than they were. The detail in his artwork is also outstanding, and it doesn't matter if it's a vast picture with many characters, a fight sequence, or an emotional sequence, the detail's always perfect.

As I said earlier the conclusion to last issue really set the tone for this issue, but it was the fight sequences that really made this issue as good as it was. To be honest most of the issue is a gigantic fight, and although that's not always a brilliant thing this time it was. Although epic giant fight sequences don't really tend to push a story forward much, and usually are added to give some excitement, and add to the page count. Johns however was able to progress the story through the fight sequence as the dialogue was brilliantly written. Besides the dialogue the art in the fight sequences really shone through, and between both the art, and the writing it lead for a very exciting, and dramatic sequence.

The thing that really showed in this issue was the Ocean Master's characteristics. Although Aquaman fans will know that Ocean Master is a villain it is this story that shows this for the first time since the New 52. This issue shows that Ocean Master isn't willing to listen to anything that Aquaman has to say, and it looks like he's using this as the perfect opportunity of attacking the surface more than actually wanting to protect Atlantis.

The most interesting part about this issue was how the Justice League and Aquaman got along together. As I've already said the ending of the last issue was very interesting, and it was mainly due to finding out where Aquaman's allegiances lie, so seeing him fighting the League (all be it half-heartedly) was interesting, and what was more interesting was how little the League understood Aquaman. You'd have thought that the League would have supported Aquaman, and although at the end of the day they need to think of the rest of the world first they should have left Aquaman to try and sort things out for a bit longer. This however really eat into Ocean Master's hands, and Aquaman decided what side he was on, although I won't spoil that.

Another thing I loved during this issue was when Superman got really angry. Although Superman has been angry in the past I can't recall ever seeing him as mad as he is during this issue. The art from Ivan Reis, as well as the colouring from Rod Reis is in my opinion what really helped to show this as it was simply amazing, and showed that they can even make this very angry expression look beautiful.

Whilst all this is happening Cyborg takes Dr. Stephen Shin and Vulko to the Justice League Watchtower I don't really want to talk much about what happens in this sequence as it will most likely spoil the ending of the issue, but I will say that it's very interesting, and the ending of the issue is awesome.

The Shazam! back-up story continues to get better and better, with this being the best part yet. I've really been looking forward to the fight between Shazam! and Black Adam finally happening. Gary Frank continues to do an amazing job on the artwork, and it really bring the right tone to the story, as it's full of brilliant details, and great emotions. What I liked most about this part of the story was that for the first time since becoming Shazam! Billy realizes that he's not quite as invincible as he thought he was. What I liked better though was that Billy wasn't just going to sit back and take it, and that he stuck to character by standing up to the bully. The issue once more has a terrific ending which makes me want to see the next part of the story.

Final Verdict

A brilliant issue, and the best part in the Throne of Atlantis storyline yet. I would highly recommend this issue to anyone, as well as the story so far, as it's been a very good story.

Rating: 5/5

Justice League #15 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Ivan Reis

I have been a fan of this series since the start, and although it's had a couple of rough patches it's still been an excellent series, and one of my favourites in the New 52. Geoff Johns has done an excellent job writing this series, and although I was a little upset when I heard Jim Lee wouldn't be doing the art after issue12, his replacement Ivan Reis is just as good. Reis addition to this series does however mean that he will no longer be doing art on the brilliant Aquaman series, but Aquaman's loss is Justice Leagues gain.

Plot

After being accidentally attacked by missiles, Atlantis initiate the Atlantean War Plans, and engulf Gotham City, and Metropolis, as well as other locations in water killing people. This issue also sees Superman taking Wonder Woman on a date.

Shazam! Part 8

In the backup story featuring Shazam! (Billy Batson), Shazam stops multiple robbery attempts and also learns that he can fly.

Review

This was a brilliant start to the Throne of Atlantis crossover. It isn't the best issue of Justice League I have ever read, but it is slightly better than the last issue, and very good considering that it's starting a brand new story, which crosses over into another series. I liked how Johns continued this from the last issue of Justice League with Superman and Wonder Woman continuing their discussion from the last issue, and how this new story is slipped in during this. I also loved how the Justice League was split into smaller groups, with Aquaman and Batman working together, Superman and Wonder Woman working together, and Cyborg in the Justice League Watchtower. The location of Flash is also questionable during this issue, but I just assume that this didn't affect him, or he was preoccupied with something else.

As I said I loved the art, and warmly welcome Ivan Reis as the new Justice League artist. His art in Aquaman, and Blackest Night was brilliant, and having already drawn most of the Justice League members in the past, whether in the regular universe, or the cover of Earth 2 #1, so he was the perfect choice to replace Jim Lee as the artist on Justice League. Don't get me wrong I loved Tony Daniel's art over the last couple of issues, as I said in my reviews, but Reis' art has something more appealing towards it. He's also the perfect choice for this story because he's been drawing Aquaman for over a year now, and with this story mainly focusing on him and Atlantis, it makes sense to have Reis. Besides this Reis art is simply beautiful, and has ton's of detail. Rod Reis also does a brilliant job with the colouring of this issue, and he really makes Ivan Reis' art even more beautiful. I especially like how he get's the shine on the costumes, mainly Superman's S.

Aquaman in Gotham

Aquaman visits Gotham in this issue to ask Batman for help. I wouldn't have seen this coming, as with both characters being very proud and stubborn I'd have thought that Aquaman would have only asked for help at the last resort. I did however like that Aquaman starts by helping Batman, and that he acknowledges that they don't always see eye to eye. It was also interesting in this issue, as Batman appears to be sorry for Aquaman when he tells him about being torn between the land and the sea. I also found it funny when one of the cops who's cousin works in Boston (where Aquaman's from) makes jokes comparing Batman and Aquaman after another Cop asks if his cousin works with Aquaman, like James Gordon works with Batman.

It was also interesting seeing at the start of the issue the reason why Atlantis put it's War Plans into effect, and it also leaves a lot of questions about who changed the co-ordinates of the missile. This did however give Ocean Master the perfect excuse for attacking the land, and I wouldn't be surprised if he was somehow behind it.

Superman Explaining to Wonder Woman
why Clark Kent is his Mask

Superman continues explaining to Wonder Woman about why Clark Kent is his mask, and not Superman. Although there was all the Throne of Atlantis stuff going on in this issue this was the sequence that I liked the most. Any Superman fan knows the reason for Clark Kent being Superman's mask, but it was interesting seeing him explain it to Wonder Woman, who doesn't know much about secret identities, as she's always Wonder Woman. The date between Wonder Woman and Superman in this issue was also interesting, and I loved that Clark showed her how to hide her identity like he does, by putting glasses, and a suit on her, and having her hair tied up.

Shazam Can Fly

The Shazam! backup story was once again brilliant, and always worth reading. Although it's not been the best part in the Shazam! story it was still very fun and the set up for the next part was brilliant. Gary Frank really does a terrific job on the artwork, and really brings this story to life, with ton's of detail. I also enjoyed seeing Shazam! fly for the first time in this issue, and how he reacted to the prospect of being a child again. Freddy Freeman has also been a brilliant friend to Billy and it's nice that Billy becoming Shazam! has made them closer friends, as they were far from friends at the start of this story. It was also nice to see Shazam! stopping robbers, and I'm really looking forward to the next part, which should be the best yet.

Final Verdict

A good start, and I hope that this will be a great crossover. I would highly recommend this issue, as well as Aquaman #15, which was also out this week, and am looking forward to Justice League #16, and the continuation of the Throne of Atlantis storyline.

Rating: 4/5