Publishers: Marvel Comics
Writer: James Robinson
Artists: Leonard Kirk, Paul Neary, Marc Deering
Colourists: Frank Martin, Guru-eFX
Editors: Katie Kubert
Release Date: OUT NOW!
Price: $3.99

Like DC’s Justice League? Then you should read Squadron Supreme #5, Marvel’s version of that team, but as only James Robinson can tell it. Trapped in Weirdworld ruled by the ruthless mind-controlling Doctor Druid, Nighthawk, Blur and elf Tyndall escape but at a terrible cost.

Meanwhile, Thunda, Hyperion, and Doctor Spectrum regroup as Hyperion learns he’s vulnerable to magic, just like Big Blue at DC. And Skull the Slayer joins the group after telling Spectrum his power is, “I’ll brook no nonsense from man or goblin.”

The story in Squadron Supreme #5 explores again the ethics of the Squadron’s deadly methods. “I thought we all agreed collateral damage was a necessary evil,” says Nighthawk. “Necessary? No,” responds Tyndall. “Just evil.” Cue traitor Warrior Woman, who posed as Princess Power: “That’s the one thing I liked about the Squadron Supreme.”

There are some nice subtle touches to Squadron Supreme #5 when Nighthawk ironically ties up Warrior Woman in his rope (we all know how important a rope is to a certain DC princess). And the finale is a chess story of strategy and tactics, with plenty of action and excitement.

Artists Leonard Kirk, Paul Neary and Marc Deering do the writing on Squadron Supreme #5 with aplomb; telling the story in a cinematic style; even when panels get complicated they never feel over crowded. Some of colouring effects by Frank Martin and Guru-eFX are outstanding, especially when Spectrum first appears; you can almost feel the light leaping off the page.

Squadron Supreme #5, now with Thunda as the group’s conscience, sets up the group for big challenges and continues to develop the characters. It’s satisfying, entertaining and never preachy or melodramatic, just what a good, engaging, comic book should be.

 

Reviewer: Joe Lovece
Reviews Editor: Steve Hooker