Justice League: Road to Dark Crisis #1
DC Comics
Written by Joshua Williamson, Jeremy Adams, Chuck Brown, Phillip Kennedy Johnson, and Stephanie Phillips
Art by Dan Jurgens, Rosi Kämpe, Fico Ossio, Leila Del Duca, and Clayton Henry
Colors by Norm Rapmund, Hi-Fi, Sebastian Cheng, Jordie Bellaire, and Marcelo Maiolo
Letters by Josh Reed
The Rundown: Various heroes and villains deal with the aftermath of the Justice League’s demise.
Team-Up
In Gotham City Nightwing and Superman help stop a criminal. Later, Dick and Jon have a heart to heart where they discuss the situation regarding the Justice League and their thoughts on the matter. Soon, an attack causes the duo to team up and Dick makes an interesting decision.
Life of Purpose
The family members of Barry Allen discuss recent news concerning their loved one and his team. Then, Wally waxes reminiscent while he and Ace battle villains and search for clues.
Survivors
Green Lantern and Aquaman team up to stop intergalactic creatures from destroying Earth’s ocean. During this time, Hal learns of the Justice League’s fall from Jackson. Green Lantern then goes on a journey to seek out answers.
The Pariah
Before the decimation of the Justice League, shadows of the past haunt a weary Mossa. Finally, he is forced into making a decision that will change the multiverse in an unexpected manner.
Because of the Night
In Gotham City, in the recent past, Nocturna and Batman have a confrontation. In the present, Nocturna is challenged by Batgirl Stephanie during a heist and the two have a surprising conversation. Later, Firefly makes Nocturna an offer.
The Story: The overarching theme of this issue is resurrection. For the most tenured heroes of this universe, death is categorically uncertain. For the youth, it is both devastating and frightening. Here, experience fosters an unwavering hope, and the older generation user various methods of imparting that to the newest group as well as guiding them into their new expanded roles. It’s an interesting lesson in viewpoint and the changing of the guard that comes in every time period. I found this story to be very powerful and thought-provoking. I hope this level of contemplation continues throughout this crossover event.
The Art: The various justice league stories have artwork that is suited to the tone and personality of the different members. The issue uses modern comic stylings and includes detailed drawings that emphasize both character and surroundings. There is also realism to each set of panels that is emotionally connective, especially in the various action scenes. Overall, this issue does a good job with distinguishing stories while ensuring a smooth transition.