Writers: Keith Giffen & J.M. DeMatteis
Artist: Howard Porter
Collects Justice League 3000 #14-15, Justice League 3001 #1-6, DC Sneak Peek: Justice League 3001 #1
I admit it: until today, I never read anything having to do with Justice League 3000/3001. A lot of it has to do with the fact that I’m normally buried under so many books. Let’s just say that I’m highly grateful that I was granted the opportunity to review this because it has to be one of the best titles DC has printed within the past few years.
Keith Giffen and J.M. DeMatteis have done an unbelievable job putting together this highly imaginative, humorous read. It is no doubt among the upper echelon when it comes to dialogue in an ensemble story and fully embraces the richness of the DC Universe. Add to all that Howard Porter’s uncanny ability to render diverse worlds and you have a winning combination.
Here’s what you need to know going in: it’s about 1,000 years into the future and the Justice League have been cloned. Their heroic desires are there, but their memories are a little spotty in addition to having somewhat different personalities. The “new” Superman will especially put a smile on your face. Batman, I think, is the most like his former self, in case you were wondering.
From the medieval style Camelot Nine to the prison planet of Takron-Galtos, to battles with Etrigan’s hordes from Hell to Starro, who has legally enslaved an entire planet, there’s never a dull moment in this book. And if that weren’t enough, a villainous Lois Lane infiltrates the Justice League while secretly running the Injustice League. There’s so much going on and it’s all coherent – I don’t want to spoil any of the details. The subplots are also dynamite, yet don’t detract from the main story in the slightest.
But if that’s not enough for you, you can look forward to seeing classic duos such as Booster Gold and Blue Beetle as well as Fire and Ice, the latter of whom have gone through many changes over the course of ten centuries. The real Supergirl also shows up after being caught in suspended animation (I reckon that’s getting a bit annoying for her) and there’s also the matter of Darkseid’s head in a Futurama style vat. Again, I’ve said too much.
While this volume leaves off on a rather shocking note, I wish it functioned as somewhat of a standalone read in addition to acting as part of a whole. It does seem a bit serialized, but that’s the nature of trade paperbacks these days. You will definitely want to see where the story goes next, thanks in part to the Scullion invasion.
This gem combines all the best elements of Justice League International and JLA, with just a dash of Legion of Superheroes. It’s entirely accessible for those who haven’t previously read a lick of Justice League 3000 and a must buy for those who love fun, kick ass superhero comics.
