In my latest comic review, I tackle what's probably my most anticipated comic book in quite a while, Justice League #2. As I've said before, I really loved the first issue of the recently relaunched title, and it led to my preferring most of DC's current comics over what Marvel is offering right now (that's coming from someone who prefers Marvel's characters, movies, etc.). So obviously, I'd be wanting to read the second issue as soon as possible. I was disappointed to find out that the comic was pushed to an October release instead of September, but the wait was certainly worth it. As stated before, there will be some spoilers in the following review, and if you don't want to find out about anything that goes on in the comic, then skip to the final paragraphs.
Justice League #2 (2011)
Rating:
Written By:
Geoff Johns
Art/Cover By:
Jim Lee
Scott Williams
Synopsis:
What happens when the World’s Greatest Detective takes on the world’s most powerful alien? You’ll find out when Batman and Superman throw down. Batman will need all his intellect, cunning and physical prowess to take on The Man of Steel.
As I said before,
Justice League #1 really captivated me. Featuring fantastic artwork, strong character development, and awesome action sequences, it was the best comic book I've read in quite a while, and increased my love for DC comics. After a long time of waiting, the second issue is finally here. Does it live up to the hype, or does it take a major dive? Judging from my rating, you probably know what my answer would be.
One of the best things about the first issue of
Justice League was the ending, in which Superman is about to battle Batman for the first time. The second issue picks up right where its predecessor left off, featuring Superman pounding Batman to the ground with Green Lantern/Hal Jordan trying to spot the Man of Steel. The scenes were breathtakingly epic, seeing DC's two greatest heroes going at it. For the most part, I like the way Supes is portrayed here. While it's obvious that he's practically reinvented for the new generation, the way he's portrayed as a true badass is well-done. I also loved the way they brought in the Flash/Barry Allen into this issue, as well as continuing the story of Cyborg's origin. The ending is another edge-of-your-seat teaser, and it only increases my anticipation of the next issue (as it looks to be another step in Cyborg's transformation).
The artwork is probably even better in this issue than the first, showcasing more action sequences (mainly with Batman, Green Lantern, and eventually Flash vs. Superman) and explosions. The character designs are awesome too, and while most have expressed dislike in Superman's new outfit, I actually like it quite fine. Sure it could use a better belt and a bit more red, but otherwise it's great. And I loved the way Batman was portrayed as well - exactly what I'd expect from an older Caped Crusader. Green Lantern's more of a smartass than what I'd prefer, but still works well enough with his cocky attitude he's known for.
On top of the above nitpicks, the only main issue I had with
Justice League #2 was some off-color dialogue. Most of it was from Hal Jordan - in one scene, when chatting with Barry on the phone, Hal said that Batman was a 'tool'. In another scene, while describing a train, Hal claimed that the train had a cape. Both sequences felt out of place, and while I usually enjoy Geoff Johns' writing, one of his biggest faults is the occasional WTF lines he could include in a comic book he writes. Other than those occasional lines, I can't think of any major flaw in this issue.
So in the end,
Justice League #2 is almost better than the first issue, and it probably would be if it had some better dialogue. Featuring even better artwork, bigger scenes, and enough character development, I highly recommend this line based on what I've read so far, and this is certainly one that I'll keep reading for a while. I definitely recommend this to fans of Geoff Johns' prior work, as well as fans of Jim Lee's splendid artwork.