The Justice Society of America’s recent journey has been rocky. The film “Black Adam,” which featured the group, was not a box office hit, and the recently concluded “Justice Society of America” series, written by Geoff Johns, suffered from both delays. JSA #1 by Jeff Lemire and Diego Olortegui (which probably didn’t help that Johns is in it either) aims to pick up the pieces with the JSA at its heart.
However, this time the composition of the members is different, with a senior member of the JSA missing and younger members splitting up due to the influence of absolute power. With their numbers dwindling and the threat of a terrorist organization known as Cobra looming, will the JSA be able to unite or will it be doomed?
Lemire brings to JSA the energy that pervades Black Hammer’s work. The fact that Jay Garrick, Alan Scott, and other senior members of the JSA are trapped in the Tower of Fate is very reminiscent of the Black Hammer setting. But he also brings a new dynamic to the table with the younger members of the JSA. Jade struggles to keep her team together while dealing with her brother Obsidian’s more extreme methods towards Cobra members. That’s not even mentioning the fact that Hourman and Jesse Quick found themselves in a tough spot after Absolute Power. Lemire manages to write these conflicts in a human way, building an inherent bond between the characters rather than stooping to cheap drama.
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Olortegui also puts the “super” in superhero art, creating a series of impressive images. Just as Lemire knows how to play with character dynamics, Olortegui knows how to work with character powers. Obsidian’s power over the shadows takes a frightening turn. He summons a gigantic being made of shadow and sends dark tendrils into the bodies of the Cobra soldiers to forcefully interrogate them. Doctor Fate is surrounded by golden magical vines. As Jesse and Jay move, lightning is left behind them. Thanks to Luis Grello’s color art, each faction has its own unique characteristics, as do the backgrounds. JSA brownstones are warm and inviting, but Tower of Fate is a maze of stairs and shadows.
A standout moment is the opening page where Olortegui charts the entire history of the Justice Society. Lemire also concludes the story with a narration that covers the Society’s legacy from the days of World War II to the present day. This is a great way to highlight their legacy for both long-time DC fans and new readers.
JSA #1 gives the Justice Society the fresh start it needs, as Jeff Lemire and Diego Orlotegui push the team into a new era. If DC had to choose a book to represent its “all-in” era, this would be at the top of the list.
‘JSA’ #1 brings back the iconic super team with a twist
JSA #1
JSA #1 gives the Justice Society the fresh start it needs, as Jeff Lemire and Diego Orlotegui push the team into a new era. If DC had to choose a book to represent its “all-in” era, this would be at the top of the list.
Jeff Lemire launches a story that immediately puts the Justice Society in trouble.
Diego Orlotegui knows how to bring the hell out of a superpower battle.
A big development that will be explored in future issues.
One of the best books on DC’s All-In initiative, with a great take on the JSA.
