DC Comics reviews for the week of 5/8/19

Justice League Odyssey #9

Dan Abnett’s plan for this book is starting to take fruition and it’s making the title a lot more interesting. Azrael’s voice of truth proves more than enough to end the pending conflict with his disciples while Cyborg goes it alone to secure a device that could hold the key to fulfilling Darkseid’s plans. Abnett adds in an intriguing mystery that not all is as it seems with Azrael, Starfire and Cyborg. This development could force Jessica Cruz to go it alone while on the other side of the Source Wall.

Darkseid was mysteriously absent this issue just when it seemed like he was going to become more prominent in the series. That’s a shame as I’m still not loving this mix of characters. There’s some missing personality traits, which is forcing Jessica Cruz to be written in a somewhat obnoxious way. JLO is a little too heavy on energy-based power sets as well. The team needs the token strong guy, stealth fighter and the malcontent who constantly challenges the sensible plans. Right now the book feels more Justice League in name only and needs a few more characters to really convey that world’s greatest heroes feel.

Cruz is written in a way that’s inconsistent with her earlier portrayals, which makes her read like a different character. With the shift in the story, Cruz might need this new attitude so it could work out in the end. Still, a fifth or sixth team member could do a lot to improve the dynamics.

Daniel Sampere handles the art this issue as JLO continues struggling to settle on one artist. Sampere’s art is fine, but it’s a bit too simplistic particularly with his take on character faces. Ivan Plascencia’s colors continue to be stellar as he avoids making any page look overly dark or gloomy.

JLO is on a nice rebound as of late. Once it gets a consistent artist and Abnett does more with the characters, this will be a title readers are going to anticipate each month.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10