Justice League #36

by Kalem Lalonde on November 20, 2014

Written by: Geoff Johns
Art by: Jason Fabok

Justice League was always a good book despite being Geoff Johns’ weakest title for a while. It faired well during crossovers such as Throne of Atlantis and Forever Evil simply because Johns was penning both events. So when Forever Evil ended, Johns launched his Justice League book into a new era with the inclusion of Lex Luthor and Captain Cold in the team but their presence brought something unexpected. It brought a division in the team of heroes, the original members and the one snake. The league is plotting against each other, including a lot of great moments of deceit into the title. The book felt rejuvenated and the hot-streak continues here with the first chapter of the Amazo Virus and the debut of Jason Fabok as artist.

If you’re familiar with Geoff Johns’ writing, then you know how he likes to write set-up issues. There’s a lot of exposition and the plot barely budges but he sets up multiple plot-points just waiting to explode in the coming issues. He also never forget to write great character moments and great character-driven dialogue. Justice League #36 is very typical to that enjoyable and effective formula. We’re introduced to the Amazo Virus by Lex Luthor who explains the origins of the virus to Colonel Steve Trevor and Wonder Woman. Lex continues to be a compelling lead for this book. It’s difficult to tell whether or not his recent shift from villain to hero is genuine but Johns makes it blatantly clear that the consequences of the Amazo Virus being released are weighing in on him. He feels in part responsible for the outbreak as well as responsible for finding a solution. It’s a great conflict for this book's best character.

Jason Fabok makes his debut here and he does nothing but bolsters the comic’s great script. His figures are drawn to perfection. He draws one of the best Batman’s in recent memory as well as Wonder Woman. His designs are expressive and great to look at. Fabok ranks among the top tier artist this series has had and he hold ups the high artistic standards that were set and maybe even pushes them. He doesn’t get the opportunity to draw the entire league because the majority of them are sick here but I can’t wait to see his first spread of the team in the future.

Overall, Justice League #36 is a great issue that sets up an intriguing plot for the Amazo Virus. Luthor continues to shine under Johns’ pen, emphasizing the writer’s strengths. The art is also beautiful to look at with fantastically rendered characters and detailed pages. If you have yet to hop on to this series, this issue is your chance, you won’t be disappointed!

Our Score:

8/10

A Look Inside