Justice League Volume 4: The Grid (The New 52!) by Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis and Joe Prado (graphic novel review).
The volumes of ‘Justice League’ in ‘The New 52’ have been reasonably straightforward until now. The current first priority is finding some permanent members who are always on duty. This goes well, especially when Platinum goes on a rampage. It’s a pity there wasn’t a ‘Metal Men’ series in ‘The New 52,’ as the idea that they are owned by the US Army would have been interesting to explore. Additionally, this DC Earth variant seems to lack a Doom Patrol, at least from what I can tell.
As I’m editing this review, I realize that isn’t strictly true, having read volume 5. Unlike the other Earth, this version of Firestorm features two teenagers, one a slacker and the other smart, with the former in charge during their merger. Element Woman also appears, capable of manipulating elements in her own body, somewhat resembling Metamorpho but more refined. Meanwhile, the Atom, or Atomica, is a shy woman with a hidden agenda, but I’ll avoid going too deep into spoilers.
Writer Geoff Johns tackles the issue of the Justice League intervening in foreign countries without permission, which lands Superman and Wonder Woman in trouble. This situation is compounded when Shazam arrives to spread Black Adam’s ashes in his homeland. Additionally, Amazo makes an appearance, leading to the destruction of the satellite. It’s revealed that only the Martian Manhunter was able to stop him previously, resulting in his expulsion from the Justice League.
This volume addresses why such scenarios haven’t occurred on other Earths. The logistics boil down to an invasion by the Justice League when more than one member is involved, affecting the perception of others. The involvement of the Suicide Squad adds another layer of complexity, leading to further problems down the line, which would be a spoiler to disclose. The storyline indicates an awareness of the other Earths among the 52.
Comparing to the other Earths, Superman is still unaware of his vulnerability to magic, which is what powers Shazam. It makes me wonder if he will ever question his attraction to Wonder Woman, given her magic-based origins.
Madame Xanadu and her fortune-telling cards also play a role. There’s a grey area between what is shown and whether she is predicting the future or it’s unfolding as she forecasts. To find out more, you’ll have to wait another week.
GF Willmetts
December 2023
(pub: DC Comics, 2013. 176 graphic novel softcover. Price: varies. ISBN: 978-1-4012-5008-9).
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