This book was my introduction to Grant Morrison. It would in no way prepare me for his particular brand of insanity found other ventures (Invisibles, anyone?) but what this book did do was make me like DC Comics. I'd been a Marvel Zombie for years when I came across this book (in issue form at the time). I'd always felt that their characters were too boring, that they were too mythic and not human enough. I purchased the first issue on a whim and I fell in love.
Porter's art is good, his heroes look heroic and he has good panel layout and pacing. He manages to reflect Morrison's story being either dark or silly depending on the moment. But the true star of the book is Morrison. He gives the team a real challange that is deserving of such a crew of superheroes (hard work considering this all-star line-up). Also, impressive is that he got rid of all the weak links of the chain and brought out DC's big guns ("the Magnificent Seven" as Guy calls them when he's feeling clever).
The real triumph is how he writes character interactions. In particular between Superman and Batman as well as between Flash and Green Lantern. He nails these complex relationships. Superman and Batman, with their competitive best friend aspect while the Green Lantern and Flash act more like siblings as they bicker, tease and try to get more attention.
Leave a comment