Black Lightning is one of those characters who only recently started getting the respect he deserved. If you read his backstory, it has all the ingredients for success. Jefferson Pierce is a schoolteacher turned superhero whose job it is to educate students and protect them from gang violence. Having two daughters with superpowers and being a member of the Justice League, not to mention founding the Outsiders, has only solidified his “cool” factor, as has his TV series. . Black Lightning #1 by Brandon Thomas and Fico Osio reminds us that Jefferson is just as fascinating as any other big-name DC hero.
In fact, as Black Lightning #1 begins, Jefferson is on top of the world. He recently rejoined the expanded Justice League, fighting crime alongside his daughter Jennifer, aka Lightning. He was able to establish a stable relationship with his ex-wife Lynn Stewart. However, the events of Absolute Power left a mark on Jefferson and his daughter Anissa, also known as Thunder.
From the jump, Thomas manages to balance Jefferson’s family duties with his superhero act. The issue begins with Rin talking about the night she fought Amazon, played by Amanda Waller, and reveals her lingering guilt over not being able to protect her daughters. This human element is a big part of Black Lightning #1’s appeal, as it makes the superhero elements more interesting while showing something different from other superhero books. Only in Black Lightning #1, Black Lightning is seen defeating a child whose powers explode while standing shoulder to shoulder with Superman and Nightwing.
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Another thing that makes Black Lightning #1 a unique book is Ossio’s artwork. Osio provided a new design for Black Lightning that cleverly incorporated elements of the TV uniform and classic costumes, while also giving Jefferson a stylish color scheme and beard. He also harnesses the full power of Black Lightning, as Lightning can fly, generate force fields, and shoot giant lightning bolts. It’s a very impressive exhibit, just with views on both sides.
Topping this all off is Ulises Arreola’s colors, as most of the action takes place in Metropolis or space. Whether in low Earth orbit or in the halls of the Watchtower, Arreola perfectly captures the awe you’ll see when you gaze. On earth from a distance. The earrings also come in different colors to differentiate their power sets, with Jefferson’s having a cobalt blue lightning bolt and Jennifer’s being more of a golden orange color.
Black Lightning #1 is both a reintroduction to the title character and a reminder that he can be great if handled right. Brandon Thomas and Fico Osio happen to be his right-hand men. Black Lightning will play a major role in Justice League Unlimited, but this series shows he can hold his own and there’s a spot for him on the A-list.
‘Black Lightning’ #1 proves that Jefferson Pierce is a big star
black lightning #1
Black Lightning #1 is both a reintroduction to the title character and a reminder that he can be great if handled right.
Brandon Thomas balances Black Lightning’s home life with his duties as a superhero to great effect.
Fico Ossio has designed one of the coolest supersuits I’ve ever seen.
Rich, vibrant colors that express the awe of living in a world of superpowers.
A strong case for Jefferson Pierce being on the A-list of DC heroes.
