Justice League of America #39

I find it to be rather telling that I am more interested in the Motor City Leaguers than I am in Plastic Man's melting dilemma, the dual of Doctor Lights, or the magical melee between Zatanna and her old man. I'm hoping this is a slow ramping up for this creative duo rather than a glaring inadequacy. As I mentioned, this issue starts to show us some of Robinson's and Bagley's better stuff, I just hope they continue to build on it. This issue offers a great deal of potential, but needed extra pages to do so. I think trying to assess Robinson and Bagley on these two issues is premature. Read Full Review

The worst part of the entire book is the premise that the bad Dr. Light be revived again, as having been reduced to a pile of sludge by the Spectre was an ideal fate for that creep. I'm tired of seeing him fight his distaff namesake, who has always been more worthy of the costume than he. I hope Robinson, who makes the dialogue stick this issue, keeps his renovation of the good Dr. Light going strong next issue, as I'd love her to say lights out to the villain for the final time. Read Full Review

While fans of Justice League Detroit might be intrigued by the appearance of certain characters, there is not much in this book that is worth checking out. Even the closing scene, while quite disturbing, did little to change my mind about the title. Thus the issue continues the mediocre trend for not only Justice League of America, but the Blackest Night tie-ins as well. Read Full Review

It's an improvement from last issue, but the lack of appealing leads and the presence of dull villains continues to bring JLA down. I look forward to the day that the potential of a Robinson/Bagley Justice League title becomes more than just potential. Read Full Review

At best, Justice League of America #39, points out the ridiculousness of Blackest Night proper by focusing on minor characters instead of Green Lantern and the Flash. In setting up for a zombie Plastic Man (oh please no), suddenly the silliness of a zombie Elongated Man becomes apparent, doesn't it? Read Full Review

There is almost nothing to enjoy in this issue. The dull plotting is perhaps the high point of the issue, especially when compared to the very rough and rushed looking art and the simply horrid characterization. Unless you've been waiting for the "triumphant" return of Vibe, chances are you'll hate this issue. I know I did. Read Full Review

JBL Reviews

Oct 30, 2022

I thought there were interesting ideas here.