Justice League Unlimited #1
Illustrated by: Dan Mora
Written by: Mark Waid
Release date: November 27th, 2024
DC Comics
*Minor Spoilers Ahead
THE WATCHTOWER RISES! The Justice League is back and bigger than ever! In the wake of Absolute Power and the DC All In Special, Darkseid’s death has triggered a massive power vacuum in the DCU, and Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman must unite like never before and expand the Justice League to encompass every hero championing the forces of good in the face of incredible evil! As our heroes work to uncover the mystery of the dark lord’s successor, Ray Palmer’s Atom Project triggers a race between hero and villain to control the fate of metahuman abilities on planet Earth, which threatens to destroy everything the League has built. Worlds will live, worlds will die, and a surprise is waiting in store on the last page… Do not miss the dawn of the new era of justice — it all begins here!
Mark Waid and Dan Mora bring the Justice League back in Justice League Unlimited #1, kicking off with big ideas and plenty of heroes. The story feels like a throwback to the animated series, packed with classic dynamics and unexpected cameos.
Reading this issue reminded me a lot of the Justice League Unlimited cartoon, with its sprawling roster and mix of action, intrigue, and teamwork. The Watchtower feels alive with familiar and lesser-known heroes stepping into the spotlight. It’s exciting to see this new, expanded League, though I’m not entirely sold on all the creative choices.
For instance, I wasn’t a fan of the League referring to themselves as an “army,” which feels off for their ethos. And while I appreciate Star Sapphire’s role as the new kid, the “love” powers lean a little cheesy. Red Tornado being reduced to just an A.I. also felt like a missed opportunity for deeper characterization.
The art by Dan Mora? It’s top-tier, no surprises there. His energetic art style fits the larger-than-life tone perfectly. The plot, centered around a post-Darkseid power vacuum and a race to control metahuman abilities, sets up some intriguing conflicts.
It’s a good start—not groundbreaking but solidly entertaining. If you’re a fan of the classic Justice League format, this issue feels like a step in the right direction.
The HUSH 2 Prelude was pretty good. It’s hard to go wrong with Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee on a title.
Justice League Unlimited #1 is available on our new comic book wall and can be placed on your weekly pull list.
A Nostalgic Start to a New JLU Era
Colors - 9.7
Design - 9.7
Illustration - 9.7
Narrative - 9.6
Subplot - 9.6
9.7
Justice League Unlimited #1 delivers nostalgia and action with Mark Waid and Dan Mora at the helm. The expanded team brings promise, though some creative choices feel uneven. It is a decent start that captures the spirit of classic Justice League adventures.
