Writer: Tom Taylor
Artist: Stephen Byrne
In my previous review of Justice League/Power Rangers, I mentioned how the Mighty Morphin’ are the youths, while the Justice League falls into parental figures and guidance for the ranger’s team. It doesn’t show us the amount of darkness as the Rebirth series has given us (I was shocked at the body horror included in the most recent Super Sons issue, Jon Kent is only ten!). In addition, Tom Taylor writes the Injustice series, where Superman carries a dictatorship role; he’s wicked at writing thriller in comics. This series is a contrast to those works, and he does an amazing job here too. He brings you back to that Saturday-morning cartoon feeling.
The Rangers are in danger of losing their home world, and the Justice League wants to prevent them from experiencing this loss. I love characters building a deep and solid connection, regardless of the time they’ve known each other. Superman watches Zack lose his parents as they juggle to save the world that Zedd and Brainiac are trying to take away. As Zack’s parents disappear into the debris, Superman stands to console him. He reminds the team they can still be saved.
Then comes in Batman, the oddly, fun-dad in this series. He hands out a bunch of Bat-gadgets to the kiddos. You remember what a kid looks like on Christmas? Because I do:
I concur, Tommy.
Stephen Byrne’s art is spot-on as always! By using bold colors and simple shading, Bryne gives it a morning cartoon aesthetic. The art bounces off the writing, I can hear the noises in the pages. Whether it is the excitement of the team or the deafening noise of losing a home. Byrne’s colors tone the emotion in the room. Green is fear, used while Angel Grove is stolen and Cyborg has been possessed. Blue shines in curiosity and grievance as (spoiler) Victor is speared by the Blue Ranger. It’s amusing how both green and blue overtook that final page.
Conclusion
I highly recommend this crossover series. Watching two childhood superhero teams work together will bring a smile to your face, no doubt. A simple plot and conflict, but it doesn’t mean I won’t enjoy the ride. There are the classic lessons in this: love your family, respect your elders, and believe in yourself. All around, a good-hearted issue. Issue #5 comes out August 9th, 2017, a bit of a wait, but worth it for your collection!
Images courtesy of DC Entertainment
