DC Retroactive: Justice League – The 90’s

dc-retroactive-justice-league-90s-coverDC’s Retroactive titles have been a failed experiment (and that’s putting it kindly). The attempt at telling tales from the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s with writers and artists who worked on those characters during that time period has delivered some of the most disappointing and awful tales the publisher has put out this year. Until now.

When I heard of the idea I was cautiously optimistic. Most of the group didn’t interest me much but I was going to get Dennis O’Neil writing a Green Lantern story (sadly, without Neal Adams), and Len Wein was doing a Batman story, but the one that really piqued my interest was Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis, and Kevin Maguire reuniting for a classic Justice League tale. And, unlike the others, this one actually delivers the goods.

The issue gives us the classic 90’s team (Booster Gold, Blue Beetle, Mr. Miracle, Guy Gardner, Fire, Ice, Martian Manhunter, Oberon and Maxwell Lord), a Parademon who has lost Darkseid’s inhaler (or something) in a card game, the Injustice League, a giant monster loose on the city, and Power Girl shows up with that #$%@& cat!

There are several great moments here including some BWA-HA-HA-HA’s, Guy Gardner being a dick, Big Sir and Mulit-Man, and Blue Beetle and Oberon’s reactions to seeing that cat (whose name is finally revealed – hehehe).

For those who didn’t grow up with this wacky version of the Justice League I can only pity you, and envy you at getting this first look at one of the funniest team books any publisher has put out. Most of the original run is now available in both hardcover and paperback. If you like what you read here (and who wouldn’t?) I’d suggest going to the local comic shop or book store and stocking up on some 90’s Justice League goodness. Worth a look.

[DC, $4.99]