Justice League #36 Review

Who will survive The Amazo Virus? Read on to find out.

The official description from DC Comics:

“THE AMAZO VIRUS” continues! A bizarre disease has been unleashed, America has been quarantined and the whole world is at a stand still – but no one on the League may be more affected by this than Batman! What deadly secret about the League does the Amazo Virus hold? Where did it come from? Who unleashed it and why? And what does it mean for the future of the world’s greatest heroes?

I have to admit, I’ve been rather excited about this arc, with the concept of Amazo’s powers manifested in a virus having me well and truly intrigued. The resulting narrative proves to be just as enticing as I’d hoped, as though there are a lot of grey areas that need touched upon, the story is still in early days. In saying that, the background narrative, and interaction between the likes of Superman and Batman, and Luthor and Wonder Woman was extremely gripping.

Geoff Johns will always be one of the best writers at DC, as though the likes of Scott Snyder and Jeff Lemire have given him a run for his money, the Chief Creative Officer hasn’t missed a step. The way that he builds suspense in this opening chapter is simply amazing, with the transition between sequences allowing for an exciting flow. Johns also builds tension between characters, with the mystery behind the Patient Zero being tantalising to say the least.

Jason Fabok has established himself as one of the best Batman artists in recent history, and now he’s transitioning these skills into Justice League. The result is something that makes his Batman work look average. I’m not sure whether it was the varied supes, or the fact that his pencils are contrasted by light for a change, but there is certainly something that adds that extra spark. Regardless, Fabok does an amazing job of the Leaguers, with Superman, and especially Wonder Woman looking awesome. Brad Anderson also delivers sleek colours, with the highlights, and boldness of his palette irradiating quality.

Justice League may have finally found the arc that will change its fortunes, with the suspense and character tension setting wonderful atmosphere. There’s also plenty of mystery, and wonderful background, making this issue easy to recommend.