Written by James Robinson
Art by Brett Booth; Norm Rapmund; Andrew Dalhouse; & Rob Leigh
Cover Art by Brett Booth, Norm Rapmund, & Andrew Dalhouse
SUMMARY:
Published by DC Comics for June 2011, Eclipso Rising continues in “Part Three: The Battle for Emerald City.” Defiantly battling Eclipso’s pawns on the Moon, Donna Troy & Congorilla defend Emerald City’s outmatched forces from a corrupted Jade and The Shade, among others. Even their badly-needed cavalry (including Cyborg, the female Dr. Light, Bulleteer, and Red Tornado) becomes mind-controlled by Eclipso. Reuniting with what’s left of the League, Donna confirms they face a last stand. Is Obsidian’s intervention a much-needed escape route, or has Eclipso finally triumphed?
Note: Artist David Mack produced a variant cover for this issue.
REVIEW:
The art team’s visuals are top-caliber (as seen in the cover image). This mid-point of the “Eclipso Rising” storyline is also a satisfying effort from writer James Robinson. In large part, this straight-forward issue distinguishes itself by not glorifying inexplicable gore (unlike Issue # 54) or relying on confusing Quentin Tarantino-style time jumps (in Issues # 57-58) to convey a compelling story.
In that sense, Justice League of America # 56 sticks to the crux of Eclipso’s invasion by focusing on the League’s dwindling odds of survival. This reliable game plan works, particularly with a cliffhanger-style ending and the presence of practically glowing artwork. It really makes Justice League of America # 56 an exciting read.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There’s a two-page letters-and-answers column, which include a cover reveal for the next issue. The single-page “DC Nation” column is a letter from DC Story Editor Ian Sattler to fans re: what parameters are necessary for DC to respond to fan letters. A five-page color preview entitled “Ruins” depicts what’s-to-come in Batman: Arkham City # 1.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7½ Stars
