Review by West: Justice League of America #12
~~~Spoilers Ahead~~~
"The tale of the warrior is one of hope."
- Martian Manhunter
Intro
Justice League of America is slated to be cancelled this year, mercifully ending an eclectic up and down series. Currently features an arbitrary tale to tie into the " Forever Evil" miniseries. The story showcases Stargirl, perhaps in an attempt elevate her status within the "new 52" continuity.
Background
Justice League of America is a tough series to pin down and profile. It began on the interesting premise of being a team that would operate in the interest of America. Their primary purpose to be deterrents to the Justice League if needed; with certain members chosen solely for their implied ability to match up against certain members of the Justice League. The team was built by Amanda Waller to act as a super powered branch of the American government's ARGUS division. The confrontation between the two leagues came to pass with "Forever Evil", which also saw both teams go missing. We learn that not all, but large portions of each team's members have been captured and resigned to a prison within Firestorm. And Justice League of America follows Martian Manhunter and Stargirl who have not been captured; and their attempts to free the other captured league members.
The Issue - Justice League of America #12
The issue begins with Stargirl suffering from flashbacks to a tragic moment that befell her shortly after she became a superhero. She rises from a lake in which Despero tried to drown her in last issue. A weakened Martian Manhunter is being badly beaten by Despero; who departs shortly after leaving Manhunter broken and dying. Firestorm is racing toward Stargirl's hometown of Los Angeles, where he will explode leveling the city. Stargirl is conflicted over pursuing Firestorm or coming to Manhunter's aid; she ultimately chooses to try an assist Manhunter. However he is dying, and urges her to go to her family and stop Firestorm. He inspires Stargirl by telling her an old Martian legend of a young warrior who triumphed over an incredibly imposing menace. Stargirl then races toward Los Angeles, but she is attacked by Despero. She flashbacks to her horrific memory, the Shadow Thief had killed her brother because of her actions as Stargirl. Stargirl reconciles with the memory and finds tremendous courage as she begins to battle back against Despero. The issue ends with Firestorm on the verge of exploding, and Martian Manhunter dying in the snow with the hope that Stargirl can overcome the great challenge before her.
Critique and Rating
It has been a slow and achingly dull arc, but this issue surprised with great heart and emotion. Stargirl displays incredible courage despite the tragedy that being a superhero cost her and her family. She enters the apex of a great character arc, from inexperienced gimmick teammate to courageous inspiring superhero. I really enjoyed the Martian legend told here as well, it's poignant and inspirational. Matt Kindt does a great job with the pacing, finally pushing the story along at top speed. Since the new "52", it seems like DC has developed a house style with many artist drawing in a similar fashion. Artist Eddy Barrows work here is very much in that vein, serviceable and familiar. Overall, a surprising good read in a series that has been very poor as of late. A nice surprise.
***
(out of four stars)
Thanks for reading and take care.
About The Author:
Big comic book fan. Obviously enjoy the era of CBMs we're getting. I contribute reviews, my Top Fours editorials, and a handful of comedic fan fics, such as Supermax and Watchtower Tales.