Review: Justice League of America #21

Justice League 21, on sale this week, introduces the mysterious Libra, set to play a part in the upcoming “Final Crisis” from DC Comics.

Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman have constructed a secret room in an interdimensional bubble, in which to discuss important “Justice League” business.   The three recount recent business with the team, and plan for new members.  Meanwhile, a villain called The Human Flame attempts a bank robbery, only to be confronted by Hawkgirl and Red Arrow.  The Flame doesn’t like superheroes – particularly the Martian Manhunter, who defeated him before – but he’s no match for Arrow and Hawkgirl, until the arrival of the mysterious Libra.

Libra’s plan involves getting together a supergroup of supervillains — which, as noted by Luthor in this very issue, has been tried often before — but Libra claims this time will be different. And in exchange for co-operation, he’s willing to give these villains their heart’s desire.  In the Human Flame’s case, that could be bad news for the Martian Manhunter.

The art is by Carlos Pacheco, always one of the better storytellers in comics, and the story is by Dwayne McDuffie, who proved he knew the Justice League when working on the recent animated series.

– Matt Price