JSA #22 (DC COMICS)
The Spectre will not stop until a new host is found.
With Jim Corrigan in the 1940’s the powerful being has become unhinged. Vengeance is being taken at will with different hosts trying to claim the being to stop the onslaught. All have failed thus far.
Now one appears to let the spirit claim her grief and body for a new start. Finalizing the deal isn’t so cut and dry.
JSA #22 by Jeff Lemire, Diego Olortegui, Luis Guerrero and Steve Wands (DC Comics) concludes “The Search For The Spectre”!
Let’s take a closer look at what transpires now.
JSA #22 by Jeff Lemire, Diego Olortegui, Luis Guerrero and Steve Wands (DC Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Lemire brings down the house with a superb finish. Juggling two time eras, the Spectre’s influence knows no bounds. This plays into Yolanda Montez’s favor. Her grief has shown no signs of letting up after the death of Ted Grant. It doesn’t take long for her to utilize her newfound powers to attempt some personal vengeance. The dialogue demonstrates the pain building up for weeks about to be unleashed. This moment leaves at a great cliffhanger before swinging back in time.
Once in Gotham 1940, the younger unit of the JSA have to attempt the impossible. Readers watch as some quick thinking progresses the plot to a steady transition point. Seeing Kid Eternity and Jakeem get some much needed panel time allows them to crack the case in their search. Once here, the writing shows the true weight of the curse of the Spectre. It opens up a possible solution to the current problem. It can’t come too soon as the present time diverges into a new path due to some impactful conversations. As all points finally come back to square one, the finish is a classic display of superhero reactions. The close ties up loose ends nicely with great hope for what’s next.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW!
Olortegui & Guerrero open with Yolanda’s search for vengeance. Her aura as the Spectre chills as she looks for her intended victim. After a brief flashback, a strong full page shows her on the verge of unleashing pain. This allows the story to detour to the past where the younger squad take over. Panels carry an optimistic joy to them as they attempt their search. Another guest star makes a triumphant entrance to assist in the case.
As events jump back to present, the pent-up emotions become undeniable as Yolanda wants blood. Readers see another member of the team who understands her situation step in. Their conversation becomes helpful to progress events into a staggering spot. Certain themes echo in the past as well. Corrigan’s mannerisms show the frustration of being the vessel and dealing with its’ responsibility. This builds up to a sensational two page spread uniting both teams to face the challenge. Another excellent full shot begins a fitting final act. Some dangling threads are handled as the last panel provides a fresh does of hope into the pages before departing.
FINAL GRADE: 9
The Spectre’s rage is finally settled, but at what cost? Lemire presents a strong closing chapter with much emotion behind it. Olortegui & Guerrero delve into the heavy burden with impressive images. A consistent reminder of what superhero stories are all about.
Let me know your thoughts on JSA #22 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
