Written by Gerry Conway
Art by George Tuska; Mike Machlan; Helen Vasik; & Gene D’Angelo
Cover Art by Chuck Patton & Mike Machlan
SUMMARY:
Published by DC Comics for September 1985, the midpoint of a three-part Amazo storyline is entitled “Battle Cry.” Having left the League, Aquaman reunites with his estranged wife, Mera. In the rugged Canadian forest, the League breaks into tag-teams (Elongated Man & Gypsy) (Zatanna Zatara & Steel) (Vixen & Vibe) to pursue Amazo. Surviving Amazo’s attack on the League’s prototype jet, Martian Manhunter and Dale Gunn aren’t aware that the team has engaged the unstoppable android.
Unhinged by the mind of a crazed local named Jake MacGregor, Amazo easily captures the team, duo by duo. Martian Manhunter & Dale Gunn depart for Superman’s Fortress of Solitude, unaware of the abducted team’s potentially grim fate.
REVIEW:
This entertaining issue is another reason why the Detroit Justice League is sadly underrated. First up is poignant character depth realized in Aquaman & Mera’s arc, courtesy of writer Gerry Conway’s smart dialogue. He also delivers an exciting series of skirmishes, as the Detroit League is plausibly overwhelmed by Amazo’s arsenal. Setting up a terrific cliffhanger, Conway makes the best use of this League roster.
Including a likable old school sort of cover image, the art team puts forth a reliable effort visualizing this adventure. The only off-note is a pedestrian-looking Aquaman. Overall, Justice League of America # 242 is worth re-discovery, in terms of vintage 1980’s pre-Crisis DC Comics.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Including a thumb-nail of the next issue’s cover, there is a two-page “JLA Mail Room” letters-and-answers column. On the inside back cover, Editor Dick Giordano’s full-page “Meanwhile …” column includes quick summaries of the week’s new DC releases.
Among Giordano’s topics is Crisis on Infinite Earths. Of dubious mention is DC’s 15-page (including a cover) preview adapting the MASK toy line as a comic book series.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7½ Stars
