Reviewer: Andy Campbell
Story Title: New Maps of Hell (part one)
Writer: Warren Ellis
Art: Butch Guice
Colors: David Baron
Letters: Phil Balsman
Assistant Editor: Michael Siglain
Editor: Mike Carlin
Publisher: DC Comics
As last issue saw the conclusion of “I Can’t Believe It’s Not the Justice League”, a new story arc begins with this issue. It’s clear from the start of this book that it will be much different in tone than the last installment, which was primarily humor-based. Now, I’m a big fan of Warren Ellis — I like the sci-fi flavor he injects his work with. I also think he has one of most creative minds in comics today.
This storyline starts off relatively slowly in this issue, as first issues often do, setting the tone for the rest of the series. Clark Kent and Lois Lane begins investigating some mysterious deaths, as does Batman (albeit separately). They eventually link to some newly developed weapons of mass destruction, which lead to one of the bigger cliffhangers in recent memory. Where this is going, I have no idea, but I’m certainly eager to find out!
Butch Guice’s art is excellent, with David Baron’s coloring being a great complement. Add to this an awesome, striking cover by Michael Stribling, and you’ve got a book that is certainly worth a look.
