Written by Grant Morrison
Art by & Cover Art by J.G. Jones
SUMMARY:
Published by DC Comics for July 2008, this 32-page one-shot reveals notated character designs and cover sketches for Final Crisis. The initial segment entitled “Kirby Krackle” explains updated designs for Darkseid; Granny Goodness; DeSaad; Black Racer; Dan Turpin; Reverend G. Godfrey Goode (aka “Glorious Godfrey); Orion; Metron; Lightray; Kamandi; Shiloh Norman’s Mr. Miracle; and The Forever People. The short “Beyond” section glimpses the villainous Libra; the Multiverse Machine; and Nix Uotan.
Two Japanese super-teams each get their own segments: Big Science Action (with members Ultimon, Cosmo Racer, Boss Bosozuko, Hammersuit Zero-X, and Junior Waveman) and Super Young Team (with members Most Excellent Superbat, Big Atomic Lantern Boy, Shy Crazy Lolita Canary, Shiny Happy Aquazon, and Well-Spoken Sonic Lightning Flash). The concluding two-page spread reveals the development behind the covers for Final Crisis # 1-3.
REVIEW:
Adopting a similar advertising approach as Dynamite Entertainment’s Project Superpowers, this slickly-produced issue is a treasure trove for Final Crisis fans. At a minimum, it boosts interest in what Grant Morrison and J.G. Jones intend to do as far as reinvigorating the Apokolips/New Gods corner of DC Comics. Perhaps the word ‘intriguing’ is an understatement as to the two Japanese super-teams, as developing these complex characters may necessitate a mini-series in itself.
Despite the familiar cover image associated with Final Crisis, it’s deceptive that the silhouetted Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Hawkman, & Flash aren’t involved in this promo. Readers will briefly see Green Lantern, Flash, and Supergirl in the last segment, but that’s the extent of the Justice League’s presence.
As an enticing teaser for Final Crisis, this issue is worth perusing, even if nothing is revealed of the storyline’s actual plot.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
The first page is a helpful table-of-contents. The last page is a “DC Nation” column by Matt Idelson, with thumbnail cover reveals for Final Crisis # 1; Huntress: Year One # 1; and Titans # 2.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
