Legion of Superheroes # 9 - Mobile Edition

DC Comics
Legion of Superheroes # 9
By Koppy McFad
Sep 3, 2005 - 5:01

DC Comics
Writer(s): Mark Waid
Penciller(s): Art Thibert
Cover Artist(s): Barry Kitson

While a mysterious evil spreads in the 31st century, the Legion of Superheroes is divded by internal conflict with Brainiac 5 effectively ousting the former leader Cosmic Boy. Waid makes good use of both the wider divisions in the United Planets and the clashes within the Legion. The political strife on both levels seems realistic and organic to the story, not something tacked on just so the characters can argue with each other, like some 1960s superteam. The art is also surprisingly good despite the huge cast, the alien setting and the fast-moving pace of events. The only weak points are the confusing fight scene and the continued efforts to make the Legion seem like some sort of counter-culture movement of the 31st century, which doesn't always ring true considering the looming war facing the galaxy. But as an added treat, there is a "letters' page" where the characters actually read and react to the fanmail. Considering that most comics don't even have a letters page anymore, this really is a treat.