Supergirl and the Legion of Superheroes # 24
DC COMICS
WRITER: Mark Waid
ARTISTS: Barry Kitson, Mick Gray
COVER: Barry Kitson

Supergirl and the Legion fight off a band of alien supervillains and then discover that there is a strange being who has been trapped in the Phantom Zone for centuries. Who is this mysterious being? With all the recent changes in continuity, no one is really sure anymore. Waid does a great job with the science fiction aspects of this 31st century story, showing how a society could thrive and survive when trapped in a small space. He also has a nice grasp of the conflict inherent in a large group like the Legion. But his plots can also be repetitive with the Legion battling another team of alien supervillains -- again. It doesn't help that Kitson gives these alien supervillain teams a look of sameness. His art makes the 31st century look advanced and futuristic but also cold, sterile and joyless. Maybe that is the intention but it doesn't make the book more enjoyable. The recent death of Legion artist Dave Cockrum has caused many to recall his bright, flashy version of the Legion with its sleek space-craft, sizzling energy effects and eye-catching costumes-- especially on his women. Kitson gives us realistic women who don't look like sex kittens. But he doesn't give us enough reason to look at them either.

Supergirl and the Legion of Superheroes # 18