“Shadows Fall” Part Three
Writer: Mark Waid
Artists: Dan Mora
Color Artist: Tamra Bonvillain
Letterer: Ariana Maher
Review by Bryant Lucas
The Justice League battles to save the planet as magic-fueled flames consume the Amazon, in this month’s Justice League Unlimited #3!
The issue opens with a tense mystery aboard the Justice League Watchtower, where Renee Montoya investigates hidden secrets alongside Blue Beetle. Meanwhile, the Amazon rainforest is engulfed in magical flames, threatening global ecological disaster. The Justice League deploys its full might, with Superman, Zatanna, and even Swamp Thing stepping up to combat the mystical inferno. As the League uncovers a villainous plot to manipulate “The Green,” they find themselves spread thin, juggling threats from elemental forces and sinister agents.
The Green Gets Mean
Mark Waid delivers a high-stakes, tightly paced script that balances global-scale disaster with intimate character moments. The Amazon fire is a compelling metaphor for environmental devastation, while Waid expertly weaves in the emotional struggles of the League members. Renee Montoya’s investigation provides grounded tension, contrasting with the grandiose magical threat. The dialogue is sharp, particularly in the interactions between Zatanna and the villainous antagonist, whose mocking tone heightens the stakes. Waid’s use of continuity, from Phantom Girl’s backstory to Swamp Thing’s lore, enriches the narrative without alienating new readers. However, with so many subplots and characters, some story beats feel rushed, and certain heroes receive less spotlight than others.
Flames, Magic, and Mayhem
Dan Mora’s art is, once again, stunning. His crisp linework and dynamic compositions bring each page to life, from the high-tech halls of the Watchtower to the fiery chaos of the Amazon. The vivid depictions of the magical flames feel alive, practically leaping off the page. Tamra Bonvillain’s colors elevate the visuals with striking contrasts—her fiery reds and oranges create a visceral sense of heat, while the lush greens of Swamp Thing’s emergence stand as a hopeful counterbalance. The characters are expressive, and the action sequences flow seamlessly. Mora’s ability to render both quiet moments and explosive battles makes this issue a visual treat.
Conclusion
Justice League Unlimited #3 is an ambitious issue that blends environmental commentary, magical threats, and character-driven drama. Mark Waid’s writing keeps the stakes high and the dialogue sharp, while Dan Mora’s stunning art and Tamra Bonvillain’s vivid colors elevate the story to epic proportions. Although some subplots feel underdeveloped, the issue delivers a thrilling setup for what’s to come.
Final Verdict: This one burns bright.
Images Courtesy of DC Entertainment