Written by Dan Jolley
Art by Chris Batista; Dan Green; & Chris Sotomayor
Cover Art by ChrisCross & Chris Sotomayor
SUMMARY:
Entitled “Joyride,” DC Comics released this Identity Crisis tie-in for December 2004. The recently deceased Ronnie Raymond’s psyche haunts a sleeping, 17-year old Jason Rusch’s mind. After a hot Detroit day of outdoor chores at home precipitated by his abusive father, Jason takes off with his friend, Mick, as Firestorm. Playtime that night includes seeking personal vengeance against a corrupt cop who had battered Jason two years before.
Calming an enraged Jason down, Mick persuades him to go explore the JLA’s Watchtower on the moon. Gaining access per Ronnie’s ID on file, the new Firestorm is soon humbled in a stern encounter with a skeptical Batman & the Martian Manhunter. Though Mick doesn’t remember sharing Firestorm, Jason realizes that complications re: his dual identity has given him plenty to reconsider.
REVIEW:
Taking his time, writer Dan Jolley builds depth to Jason Rusch’s life. Suffice to say, Jason is convincingly depicted as an embittered teenager with good intentions, despite his bouts of immaturity. The prelude to a future storyline hinting at Ronnie Raymond’s possible return is also nicely conveyed, including J’onn J’onzz’s & Batman’s disappointment in Jason’s impulsive antics. Hence, this issue’s plotting opts solely for dramatic effect over any humorous relief.
Including excellent visuals (i.e. the cover image), Firestorm # 6 proves a solid read for Jason Rusch fans.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Penned by a supposed ‘mole,’ the single-page “DC in Demand” column includes thumbnail cover reveals for Catwoman: When in Rome # 2; Teen Titans # 17; Identity Crisis # 3; and Firestorm # 7.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6½ Stars
