I’m a huge fan of Batman and keep up with his monthly adventures in both Detective Comics and the self-titled book. Unfortunately, a limited budget keeps me from picking up every Bat-related and Justice League title released as I would like to, but I do my very best to catch up when I can. One book I recently caught up with thanks to a new trade paperback release is “Justice.
Originally published in 2005, this is a classic Justice League story that brought to mind the fun and epic feeling I used to get watching “Super Friends” as a kid. Only now, the stories are more intricate and the situations are adult-oriented and serious. This is a good old-fashioned Justice League vs. the Legion of Doom tale that brings together all the superheroes and super villains we know and love for a climactic battle royale.
Lex Luthor and the Legion of Doom share the same dream involving the Earth’s destruction. They band together to save humanity from their annihilation. The Justice League of America are skeptical of the true motives behind the villains’ supposed humane actions. Is there a an agenda behind Luthor and Braniac’s actions?
Writers Jim Krueger and Alex Ross do a terrific job of moving back and forth between different branches of the main story and keeping the pace moving forward. They also make room for all the major superheroes involved in the Justice League to shine as much as a graphic novel featuring so many characters can. This is a complex book featuring some interesting social commentary mixed in.
Artist Alex Ross requires no introduction here. He also doesn’t need anyone defending his work. It’s evident in every panel, illustration, and brush stroke. The man is far beyond talented. He presents all the iconic characters of the Justice League and the Legion of Doom in such a beautifully realistic light. Ross truly belongs in the same class as Norman Rockwell and other classic American artists. Doug Braithwaite also contributes to the artwork.
“Justice” is recommended reading for fans of any of the JLA superheroes. There’s plenty of Batman, Superman, Green Lantern, The Flash, and Wonder Woman to keep any fans of one or more of them delighted. It’s an action-packed thrill ride that will make you want to scoop up everything Alex Ross has worked on.
For more articles by Eric Shirey, check out:
“Batman: Knightfall” Volumes One and Two Introduce the Villain Who Broke the Bat’s Back
“Batman: Detective Comics Volume 1: Faces of Death” Graphic Novel Review
Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre Issue #2 Comic Book Review
