Written by Gerry Conway
Art by Chuck Patton; Rick Magyar; Ben Oda; & Gene D’Angelo
Cover Art by Chuck Patton & Dick Giordano
SUMMARY:
Published by DC Comics for March 1985, it is entitled “Rebirth, Part Four: Gypsy Genius.” Aquaman’s new Justice League (Zatanna Zatara; Vixen; Vibe; Steel; Elongated Man; and J’onn J’onzz/Martian Manhunter) are in a stand-off with Overmaster and his Cadre. Forced to flee their first major engagement as a team, Aquaman and Martian Manhunter helps the League regroup while telepathically sensing the truth behind Overmaster’s outlandish claims. The League makes its stand against the pursuing Cadre.
At the League’s Detroit bunker, Gypsy & Dale Gunn join forces to track down the missing team. Arriving at the North Pole, Gypsy and Gunn join the battle in progress. The League learns from its two master telepaths the likely truth behind this Overmaster’s power grab scheme. As they depart the North Pole, the team witnesses an unearthly sight likely confirming Aquaman & Martian Manhunter’s deductions.
REVIEW:
Though writer Gerry Conway must resort to having Aquaman finally explain at length the deductions he and the Martian Manhunter have made, the story is generally well-played. Not only are the art team’s visuals solid (including an okay cover image), but the plotting satisfactorily boosts this new League.
Kudos also go to Conway for incorporating Gypsy and Dale Gunn as vital participants in the issue’s wrap-up. Conway makes a terrific effort at portraying the League’s heroics as an ensemble piece. As evidence of how underrated the fan-derided Detroit Justice League actually is, Justice League of America # 236 proves a surprisingly good read.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There is Dick Giordano’s single-page “Meanwhile …” column, as well as a “JLA Mail Room” page for letters and answers.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7½ Stars
