JLA: Classified #3 Review

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JLA: Classified #3


Reviewer: Andy Campbell
Story Title: Seconds to Go

Writer: Grant Morrison
Pencils: Ed McGuinness
Inks: Dexter Vines
Colors: Dave McCaig
Letters: Phil Balsman
Assistant Editor: Michael Siglain
Editor: Mike Carlin
Publisher: DC Comics

This issue wraps up the 3-issue arc written by Grant Morrison, which I found
to be clever and fun. Like most of Morrison’s stuff, I found that I had to read
it through a second time before I really "got it," but that’s not
a bad thing. Now, as with most of my reviews, I don’t like to summarize the
plot except sometimes for some basics. I prefer to say how I felt about the
story, because I feel that if people read about a positive experience I had
reading a certain book, they’re more likely to give it a shot than if I gave
away the majority of the plot. Giving away the plot like that ruins a lot of
the book’s exposition, which is a big part of getting the full effect of the
story.

That said, this book sees Morrison’s JLA characterisation that we all know
and love, as he really has a great knowledge and love of these characters. When
you read someone’s dialogue, it never feels like someone else talking. It’s
just a cool story with fun characters, and what else do you want?

How about art? For some reason, McGuinness’s art just works for me for this
book, and I don’t know why. Perhaps his style helps convey the mood I feel when
I read the story. The panel layouts are absolutely brilliant, too, and I’m sure
that’s a combination of Morrison and McGuinness’s talents. The designs are really
cool and unique, along with the trademark "16 panel-page with interesting
perspectives" that has been present throughout the series.

Next month, "I Can’t Believe It’s Not the JLA" begins, and I, for
one, can’t wait. See you there!