By Geoff Johns, Doug Mahnke, Keith Champagne & Andrew Dalhouse

The fight between the League and the Doom Patrol for Jessica Cruz or rather Power Ring concludes. Dr. Caulder and Luthor debate on whose ideology is justified and who should possess the ring, while the rest of the team tries to subdue Caulder’s group. Also, a final decision is reached about Lex’s status as a full member of the Justice League.

The issue initially looked to be all just action beats, which is okay considering the adversaries the League is facing, but that would hinder the book from being emotionally captivating. Then, Geoff Johns delivers the biggest punch of all, in only three pages, when Bruce confronts Jessica Cruz. Amidst gorgeous emerald flames, colored by Andrew Dalhouse, Batman makes a stand. Doug Mahnke, who is no stranger to depicting the Bat, along with Keith Champagne’s inking, beautifully renders the panels with iconic postures and facial expressions. The way Doug animates the cape will send chills down the spine.

The other fascinating aspect of the issue is how subtly (some will argue to the contrary) Johns illustrates that Luthor will never truly be a hero because of his egotism and selfishness. Pay close attention to the confrontation between the Chief and Lex. Also a key element is that Geoff highlights with Bruce’s words, not actions, what makes a true hero. I’ll be surprised if readers don’t get choked up reading this.

This is another fantastic issue in the current Justice League run. There’s action, heart, and depth – something for every type of reader! Also, if you are a Doom Patrol fan, this is a no brainer. I highly recommend this book.


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About The Author Erik Gonzalez

I was exposed to comics early on, one of my earliest vivid memories was picking up the entire run of Dark Horse’s Aliens vs. Predator(1990). Odd and perhaps morbid choice for a kid, I know...At the same time, I was immersed in the pop culture of the time which included, but not limited to: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Ghostbusters, Jurassic Park, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, and of course, Batman: The Animated Series. Upon reflection, it’s fairly evident why I’m such a zealous geek. My day job is in television operations, so basically I’m exposed to media at every turn, which is where I want to be! Writing comic book reviews is another outlet to convey my respect and fanaticism for the this graphic medium. I hope what I have to say will resonate with others and also spark heart-felt discussion. Simon Pegg said it best, “Being a geek is extremely liberating.”

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