Comic Book Review: JSA All-Stars #3

Book Information

Written by Matthew Sturges

Art by Freddie Williams II

Plot

The All-Stars decide to start the search for their missing comrade, The Atom Smasher.  This will require some finite training and ingenuity to prepare for any battles they might face in completing their objective.  But as they train, a few problems arise between Power Girl and Magog.

My Thoughts

So I read the Justice Society annual last week a tad bit confused by the sudden rush to stop Magog from destroying a prison.  It was nice to realize that the annual came out two weeks too early in reading All-Stars #3.  I’m not sure whose fault it was for this BIG mistake but someone needs to be put on probation or fired!

Aside from this major distraction, the story itself is a fun read.  Magog’s intentions are admirable, but to be perfectly frank, they suck.  However, it is nice to see the new team finally trying to behave like a team, even though the outcome is quite unsuccessful.  I can see why having the elderly division of the JSA is a much needed commodity.  If the All-Stars continue down this path of hatred and disunity, I don’t see this title sticking it out for the long haul.  #3 is fun to read, but I can’t keep going with the chaos that defines this team (or lack there of) if it doesn’t start to clear up in issue #4.  Hopefully, with Magog gone, things will get better.

Freddie Williams II has the potential of being one of the best artists working for DC right now, however there are multiple inconsistencies in his art that keep him from reaching that level.  Being an artist myself who prides himself on creating quality artwork in the superhero realm this is something I can speak to wholeheartedly.  One thing I do appreciate with Williams II is his attempt at being original and different artistically.  Apart from Frank Quietly, Williams’ art might be the most distinguishable of any artist in comic book history.  With that being said, many aspects of his art are huge distractions for me.

Taking in consideration that muscle definition is an important feature of the superhero, I would much prefer to see heroes that don’t look like shriveled up prunes.  The page of the Atom Smasher lying on the ground, shackled and unconscious while the mysterious, hooded figured hovered over him was gorgeously done, but made him look like a young man in an old man’s body.  Stylizing is important, but there can be a point of no return.

A side note…Did anyone else notice that Power Girl seemed to be a little less weighty in the front and zipped up as well?  I wonder if Williams was reading people’s reviews about the “boobage” and decided to make some changes.

Overall

Fun to read, but really doesn’t go beyond the typical comics book.  Williams’ art needs tweeking, and hopefully Sturges gives this team a new direction which gives them focus.

Rating: 6 out of 10 stars