Written by Geoff Johns & Allan Heinberg
Art by Chris Baptista; Mark Farmer; Rob Leigh; & David Baron
Cover Art by Rags Morales & Mark Farmer
SUMMARY:
As the third chapter of “Crisis of Conscience,” this issue was published by DC Comics for October 2005. With the Infinite Crisis saga looming in the near future, Despero defeats the Martian Manhunter. Elsewhere, the Flash (Wally West) runs a security check gauntlet checking up family and friends (among them his wife, Linda; Green Arrow’s team, and Zatanna Zatara).
In Metropolis, the Flash’s visit with Lois Lane at The Daily Planet is interrupted by a Secret Society of Villains attack. Despite Selina Kyle’s pleading, Batman declines to intervene and instead summons Superman to respond. The Society’s attack is fixated on harming Lois.
The infuriated League (Hawkman; Green Lantern Hal Jordan; Black Canary; Green Arrow; Zatanna; Flash; and Superman) battles the Secret Society. After Felix Faust taunts the Man of Steel with knowledge of his secret identity, Zatanna gladly punches out Faust. Advised of the team’s mind-wipe years ago of the Society, Superman wonders what damage control can be done.
Worse yet, the League doesn’t realize who or what has reversed Zatanna’s mind-wiping spell, far enhancing the Secret Society’s potential menace than ever before.
REVIEW:
Supported by solid artwork (including a spot-on cover image), this issue delivers all the necessary elements for an excellent comic. Including its Martian Manhunter and Batman sub-plots, the intriguing storyline surrounding the team’s controversial mind-wipes is among DC Comics’ best of that era. The sequences re: Batman & Catwoman’s tense exchange in the Batcave and the Secret Society’s attack on The Daily Planet are definitely well-played. The ethical dilemma over the League’s controversial past actions further makes for a compelling read.
As a vital component of the five-part “Crisis of Conscience” storyline, JLA # 117 is recommended, primarily for long-time fans.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
The single-page “DC in Demand” column hypes various upcoming projects, as well as some cover reveals, including JLA # 118.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8½ Stars
Note: The complete JLA: Crisis of Conscience trade paperback is highly recommended!
