Comics / Comic Reviews / DC Comics

Trials of Shazam # 1 (of 12)

By KoppyMcFad
September 5, 2006 - 23:45

This miniseries marks the re-launching of Captain Marvel as a force in the DC universe. So far, the results are mixed. In the first issue, we see Cap acting as some sort of fighter against supernatural threats, much like Winick's "Juniper Lee" character. It is only in the end that a mysterious transformation takes place, setting the stage for the "trials" that are to follow. The big red cheese looks very impressive in this first issue, ably taking on all sorts of monsters and cultists. Part of the credit goes to Porter whose art has a tone of mystery and horror to it, quite a change from the old sci-fi work he did for other titles. While the story is entertaining, there is also something lacking to it. The charm, sense of wonder and light-hearted fun of the original Captain Marvel are completely absent. Maybe this is because the new DC doesn't believe in 'fun' anymore. Sadly, it seems that DC has finally found a way to use Captain Marvel-- by cutting his old ties and making his adventures closer to the mold of "Vertigo" and "Books of Magic."

Last Updated: November 29, 2025 - 16:51