“Justice League” #50 is required reading for those about to delve into “DC Rebirth” #1. Both are written with heartfelt emotion by Geoff Johns, with the final chapter of “The Darkseid War” leading into the status quo-changing one-shot.
Written by Geoff Johns
Illustrated by Jason FabokThis is it!! The massive, 48-page conclusion to the critically-acclaimed “DARKSEID WAR” can hardly be contained between two covers! Don’t miss the final fates of the world’s greatest heroes and villains, along with world-changing revelations for Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman. It doesn’t get bigger than this as DC’s monthly super hero event comic sets the stage for the next year and beyond!
Writer Geoff Johns ends his “Justice League” run with this universe-altering final battle of the Darkseid War. Every character has an earthquake-level revelation that shakes them (and us) to their core. It’s a testament to Johns’ creativity and prowess as a storyteller that he is able to juggle so many jaw-dropping moments without making the issue appear over-stuffed. Artist Jason Fabok and colorist Brad Anderson have embraced Johns’ story and made it as much of a labor of love for them as it is for Johns. The detail in the art matches the intricate story, with this tenth part of Darkseid War resolving epic conundrums while setting up “DC Rebirth” #1 and the future of the DC Universe.
Johns could have simply given us bombastic set pieces to shock and awe us into submission. Instead, with “Justice League” #50, he sincerely makes these characters his own and gives us moments that humanize this tale’s heroes. Even though they may have abilities far beyond what is probably possible, they still experience relatable emotions. As one of the trinity says, “We were never gods.” But, as Wonder Woman narrates, they never give up “no matter the odds.” Batman must solve one of the biggest mysteries of his life, a Lantern rises, and Wonder Woman is told a revelation that will irrevocably change her life. The odds against them may be high, yet Johns infuses his story with a hope that shines among the impressive action.
Jason Fabok has rightfully become a superstar artist because of “Justice League”. His collaboration with Johns reaches its pinnacle with this fiftieth issue. Both writer and artist are such suitable partners because both are adept at commanding both effective action and personal encounters. Wonder Woman has been given a large role during this war, with Fabok mightily assisting in demonstrating the power of this character. Even after a moment of tragedy, Diana retains a strength and resolve to stand by her comrades. Her visage is one of a complex, calm, and stoic anger as she says “We need to put an end to all of this.” From page one to the very end of “Justice League” #50, Diana experiences so much and yet retains that “hope” she believes in at the very end. This “hope” is expressed through her eyes, which evoke so much. That old saying is true when applied to Fabok’s rendering of eyes in each of the book’s players: they are the windows to their souls.
Fabok’s mastery of character on the page is also evident in action scenes or moments of epic revelation. The one double page spread of the issue comes when our heroes set out for battle. It is a simple, classic superhero moment when the characters appear as if they are looking at us and leaping from the page. The inking is clean and Brad Anderson’s colors are bright, with Fabok causing our fists to rouse in the air for heroes who embody strength and hope. Even through moments of danger and occasional heartache, Johns and Fabok are able to balance auras of both darkness and light. Complexity in the operatic is difficult to pull off, yet the team on “Justice League” #50 succeed with every moment.
Anderson’s colors are carefully chosen and meld an earthiness with an otherworldliness that match the complexity of the abilities of both writer and artist. Fabok’s costumes are intricately drawn and Anderson highlights Fabok’s art by coloring with various hues on even the most simple of outfit or glowing sky. The Green Lantern constructs burst off the page and are almost tangible. Light emanating from a baby is simultaneously horrific and impressive. Anderson’s tight colors urge us to keep turning the page. He makes Fabok’s art even more tangible and realistic and place us right within the story.
Geoff Johns adores the DC Universe, its characters, and the rich history that permeates the universe. “Justice League” #50 is a culmination of not only “The Darkseid War”, but the entirety of his run on this title. “Hope” is mentioned more than once and associated with that word is “future”. This is not only a perfect lead-in to “DC Rebirth” #1 but is also a summation of the power of strong characters in general and the DC population in particular.
Final Verdict: 9.5 – “Justice League” #50 is a non-stop rollercoaster ride that does not waste any of its pages. Words, art, and colors are a whirlwind of revelation and emotion.
