Justice League of America #5 NM Howard Porter Looney Tunes Variant Cover Kindt Tasmanian Devil

Description

Justice League of America (2015) #5B
Published Jan 2016 by DC
Looney Tunes Variant Edition by Howard Porter and Warner Bros. Animation
Written by Matt Kindt and Rob Williams
Art by Philip Tan and Jason Paz
32 pages, full color

Martian Manhunter vs. the Unnamed.

This issue starts off with J’onn at the Watchtower with the League, as he analyzes his team members, contemplating their thoughts of him. J’onn’s internal monologue reads, “Watchtower. So I watch. I watch the heroes. And I learn.” It’s a simple page but it speaks volumes as this issue begins what is almost a character study of Martian Manhunter.

He wonders if Batman fully trusts him. Then follows that thought with, “Does he realize that I could make him trust me…?” It’s a notion that plays into the theme of this issue as J’onn sets out on a solo mission, questioning his place not only with the Justice League, but on this earth. A question that puts him on a journey for the entirety of this book.

J’onn travels to Tokyo to investigate a “Mars cult.” His investigation is partially driven from curiosity of finding another Martian, but also to look into the multiple murders that have been tied to this cult – a fact that doesn’t escape his consistent debating of his own purpose. As he investigates the murders, MM discovers that there is more than meets the eye to this cult, and is forced to come face to face with his own potential. And this all takes place within the first quarter of the issue! The remainder of the book is a battle of physicality, wits, and abilities as J’onn takes on a character from his past. If you’re not familiar with Martian Manhunter and are curious, you should definitely pick up this issue… and fair warning, you’ll probably want to pick up the Martian Manhunter series after reading this.

I really enjoyed Philip Tan’s art here! He appears to be the perfect match for this character, capturing the horror that actually exists within physical appearance of J’onn. He manages to draw J’onn as having so much restrained strength, yet instills a physical grace within the character. It’s pretty spectacular. Jeromy Cox also plays a huge role in bringing this book and character to life with dark, bold color choices. Greens, purples, and reds are plastered throughout.

The team also does a good job with action! You can definitely feel the intensity of the fight scenes, and some of the panels are quite disturbing at times – all qualities that work really well for this book.

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Bagged and boarded, near mint condition. 1st printing. More pictures may be in description.