Customer Reviews

JLA: Secret Origins

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Alex Ross's art, as usual, is gorgeous and a joy to behold. I have framed posters of his Wonder Woman and Aquaman hanging in my gym as testament to my admiration of his work. Alas, the pages in JLA: Secret Origins relating to Superman, Batman, Captain Marvel and Wonder Woman have been reproduced from previous books (Superman: Peace on Earth, Batman: War on Crime, Shazam! Power of Hope and Wonder Woman: Spirit of Truth) - all of which I already own. That made me feel a little cheated, but I guess I'll just have to wait a little while for his upcoming new JLA project. However, the full spreads of the JLA assembled still make this book well worth another look. Buy this book by all means if you do not already own the afore-mentioned books.

Unlike the other reviewers I do NOT recommend buying this book. The artwork of Alex Ross is great (of course) but there is just too little of it. Plus, the storyline of the origins of the JLA just did not cut it. Each origin is told through a series of 8 panels that are 8"x2", plus each origin is in a single color (except for the last panel in each). I was very disappointed that the storyline was so short for each origin. There is also a great group shot near the back of the book, but superman and some of batman fall right in the crease. I was very disappointed. You are much better off putting the money towards MYTHOLOGY (The DC Comics Art of Alex Ross). It has much of the same art from origin of JLA plus there is a lot more art for your money. In short, I don't recommend purchasing the book JLA: Secret Origins, its just not worth it.

I have read thousands of comic books in my life and my favorite stories have always been the origins, the explanations of how the superheroes gained their powers or became the hero. This book is an explanation of how a set of the members of the Justice League of America made the transition from what in most cases would have been a normal life to that of a dedicated fighter against the forces of evil.
The heroes that have their histories explained are:

*) Superman
*) Batman
*) Wonder Woman
*) The Flash
*) Green Lantern
*) Aquaman
*) Martian Manhunter
*) Green Arrow
*) Hawkman
*) The Atom
*) Captain Marvel
*) Plastic Man

The artwork is spectacular; the characters are drawn as true heroes, with serious expressions and standing erect with pride and confidence.

It's not a typical title. Not a story. But rather delicate snapshots of all your faves. Supes, Bats, WW, Hawk, MM, etc. Very well drawn. I assumed it was a regular title, but I wasn't disapointed. Know that it's huge. Like eighteen inches tall and probably twelve wide, so don't make the mistake of thinking you can cart it around in your backpack.

it was in a bit rough shape when it arrived but a great book anyway.