Shazam! #2 // Review
With time between Doomsday Clock issues, Geoff Johns returns this week with artist Marco Santucci as they journey through the Magiclands with the Marvel Family. A purely wholesome ride through and through and an absolute joy to read each month, this series already has begun to captivate fans. With the titular hero’s cinematic debut right around the corner, this series arrives just in the nick of time for fans to be re-acquainted with the Big Red Cheese.
Continuing their adventure through the Magiclands, Billy Batson and his adoptive family learn about new hidden areas previously uncharted within the DCU as they embark on their journey. Behind the scenes and back on Earth, long time Captain Marvel villains return to the forefront for what will hope to be an epic showdown between the Marvel Family, Dr Sivana and Mr Mind. Taking a much needed break at the carnival, the kids meet a new potential adversary as they are to face new secrets behind the power of Shazam.
Handling pencil duty this issue, Marco Santucci keeps with the detailed look previously established by the other artists having worked with Johns on the title. The juxtaposition between the kids having a break in the Magiclands to back on earth following the villains adds a level of weight and stakes to this heartwarming tale. Santucci’s detailed pencils portray an equal level of sheer enjoyment and absolute fear within this issue, proving to yet another great artist for the series. Legendary artist, Chris Samne even makes an appearance and delivers the perfect variant cover to encapsulate the vintage feel of the series. Colorist Mike Atiyeh adds the overall personality to this issue while helping to carry the powerful character moments and emotional beats needed.
Geoff Johns continues to leave readers in awe after all the years, as this series stands true to form for Johns and soon to be yet another modern classic from the legendary writer. His ability to deliver the heart and fun while also bringing the actual weight and potential stakes into the forefront allow this series to constantly exceed expectations. Yet another must read title from the master, Geoff Johns.
The light hearted, silver-age nature to the series is a breath of fresh air to store shelves. With secret crises around every corner of current superhero comics, this self-contained joy ride is a must buy for all readers, new and old. Johns’ love and affinity for these characters and this universe shine through yet again, while accompanied by a slew of talented artists at every turn, this series can do no wrong.
