Justice League Dark #1

Writer: James Tynion IV Artist: Alvaro Eduardo, Martinez Bueno, Raul Fernandez Publisher: DC Comics Release Date: July 25, 2018 Cover Price: $3.99 Critic Reviews: 46 User Reviews: 69
8.5Critic Rating
8.6User Rating

From the pages of JUSTICE LEAGUE: NO JUSTICE! Earth's magic once belonged to them. Now they want the magic back. But who exactly are they? It's up to the new Justice League Dark to find out and stop this nightmarish new threat at all costs! After the events of NO JUSTICE, team leader Wonder Woman guides the misfit magic mix of Zatanna, Swamp Thing, Man-Bat and Detective Chimp against enemies too fantastic even for the Justice League. Plus, what awful things are coming through the Tree of Wonder? Dark days ahead...

  • 10
    DC Comics News - Ari Bard Jul 26, 2018

    I have never been more excited to review a series, and reading this first issue only builds my anticipation. I hope Tynion makes sure that Justice League Dark stays this well-written for a long time. Read Full Review

  • 10
    Bounding Into Comics - Daniel Mills Jul 26, 2018

    Magic and superheroes don't always work well together, but they're not always written by James Tynion IV. His penchant for mystery and darkness makes him perfectly suited for the world ofJustice League Dark.The DC Universe is getting darker and more dangerous for its' heroes, but it couldn't be a better time for the readers. Read Full Review

  • 10
    Comic Watch - Amit Malaviya Jul 31, 2018

    This is the perfect introduction to a new series it sets up the immediate conflict, peppers in enough foreshadowing for future stories and conflicts, brings the team together quickly and urgently, beautifully fleshes out the magical corner of the DC Universe, and does it all with a sense of ease and purpose. Add in some detailed, bright and beautiful art, and you've got a book that earns a very high recommendation indeed. Read Full Review

  • 10
    PopCultHQ - Christian Kern Jul 26, 2018

    This book was fun! It was creepy and it was full of cameos galore! If you can think of someone in the magical spectrum of the DC Universe, then they were likely in this book. My money's worth was when John Constantine tells Zatanna he can't attend the meeting because Baron Winters won't let him in his house again after he made several people burst into flames. Which is a direct reference to "Crisis on Infinite Earths" from the pages of Swamp Thing. Read Full Review

  • 10
    Dark Knight News - Steve J Ray Jul 25, 2018

    Solid characters, a brilliant script, incredible cameos and art to die for. If the rest of this series is as good as the first issue, I'll be one happy reader. Read Full Review

  • 10
    Kabooooom - Marcus Hammond Jul 25, 2018

    It's very clear that Tynion has plans for Wonder Woman and her team that will be terrifying and multiverse altering. Justice League Dark #1 is clear and convincing beginning to a horror story that the mainstream DC Universe has never seen. This series is going to be one hell of a crazy ride. Read Full Review

  • 10
    Infinite Earths - J.D. Jr. Jul 25, 2018

    Gloriously mystical, stylishly dark and all kinds of awesome! This is the perfect jumping-on point for those wishing to experience the magical side of DC. Read Full Review

  • 9.8
    Comicsverse - Victoria Prisco Jul 25, 2018

    JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #1 is truly a spectacle. Every scene is executed beautifully. Magic comes to life, right off the pages of this comic. Although some of the characters seem out of place, I am completely spellbound by the plot. This is a story full of magic, mystery, and intrigue. Definitely, a strong start to a new series. If you are a fan of the magical side of the DCU, then JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #1 is a must read! Read Full Review

  • 9.5
    Lyles Movie Files - Jeffrey Lyles Jul 25, 2018

    Tynion doesn't spend a lot of time assembling the team, which makes the threat seem all the more imminent and threatening. In just this first issue, Tynion teases that the Justice League Dark team roster might not be complete allowing for the possibility of more magic users to eventually sign up. As for me, I'm already hooked and eager to see what kind of unexpected and unusual adventures Tynion and Bueno take this team. Justice League Dark doesn't need any tricks when it's got such a strong creative team steering a potential-ripe title. This should be a fun ride. Read Full Review

  • 9.5
    Comic Book Bin - Deejay Dayton Aug 7, 2018

    This is an extremely promising first issue, one that made me genuinely excited for the run. Read Full Review

  • 9.2
    Monkeys Fighting Robots - Dispatchdcu Jul 25, 2018

    Even though parts of the issue were heavy in dialogue, Tynion makes new readers in this realm feel comfortable moving forward while igniting an interest that has had fans clamoring since REBIRTH. Read Full Review

  • 9.2
    The Brazen Bull - Charlie Chipman Jul 25, 2018

    Backed by interesting conflict and a new team that works (surprisingly) well together, Justice League Dark (2018-) promises to be great. Justice League Dark (2018-) #1 is a solid first issue that establishes the tone of the series and introduces readers to a new super-group and the conflict that has brought them together. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Bleeding Cool - Joshua Davison Jul 26, 2018

    Justice League Dark #1 is off to a fantastic start, bringing its gonzo team together slowly while showing how and why this will be a strained fellowship. The characters are compelling, the plot is grisly to a beautiful degree, and the art is impeccable. This one earns a recommendation. Give it a read. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Comic Book Corps - Mike Bedard Jul 25, 2018

    The first issue of Justice League Dark definitely lives up to its name by being darker and more disturbing than a lot of other comics on the shelves now. Wonder Woman serves as a nice surrogate for the audience, and I'm looking forward to seeing a lot more messed up magic in the future. For now, I'll think I'll watch the DC animated film Justice League Dark, which is probably better than any live action version of the film we could ever hope to see. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Geek Dad - Ray Goldfield Jul 25, 2018

    Although Tynion is going to be missed on Detective Comics, this feels like a new hit for DC in the making. Read Full Review

  • 8.8
    Graphic Policy - Logan Dalton Jul 25, 2018

    In Justice League Dark #1, James Tynion takes one part of his tongue in cheek, yet serious exploration of magic and its consequences and complexities in his Hellblazer run, another part the family dynamic of Detective Comics, and gives the book the blockbuster sensibility of co-writing gigs with Scott Snyder and others on books like Dark Nights Metal and Justice League No Justice even going back to his work on the Batman Eternal weeklies and turns into a fairly delightful concoction. Read Full Review

  • 8.8
    Impulse Gamer - Andrew Bistak Jul 25, 2018

    In the end, Justice League Dark #1 was a strong start and I'm eager for issue 2 and as the Tree of Wonder happens to be Salem, I'm looking forward to see how this all plays out and courtesy of the story, the dialogue and the art, I'm invested! Read Full Review

  • 8.5
    The Super Powered Fancast - Deron Generally Jul 25, 2018

    This is a great first issue that looks like it's taking the reader to the darker side of the huge story arcs we just finished. Can't wait to see what happens next. Read Full Review

  • 8.5
    Batman-News - Daniel Cheeseman Jul 25, 2018

    An exciting, well-paced first chapter which sets the stage for some unique adventures courtesy of the eclectic heroes and the book's dark, grizzly vibe. With epic event ‘The Witching Hour' already announced for October, everything's coming up roses for Justice League Dark. Read Full Review

  • 8.5
    Black Nerd Problems - Mikkel Snyder Jul 25, 2018

    I enjoyed the time I spent in the magical realms of the DC universe, plus I think Tynion is a great match for the tone and characters. It's a fun opener, and any excuse to spend time with this particular cast is more than welcome. Read Full Review

  • 8.5
    Comicosity - Allen Thomas Jul 25, 2018

    Justice League Dark feels somewhat like a rehash of things of DC past, but it is no less enjoyable. The magical arena of DC has frankly been neglected over the past few years, so a deeper dive as part of a trend with the publisher is a nice turn. Wonder Womans inclusion is one of my favorite parts of this comic, as her ties to magic are often ignored in favor of other story and lore elements. Magic in DC is assuredly weird, so it fits that the team is as well. However, Im curious to see how these characters work together and if this can turn into a fresh new story for them and the world of magic for DC Comics. Read Full Review

  • 8.4
    Geeked Out Nation - Jideobi Odunze Jul 25, 2018

    Justice League Dark #1 brings us back to the idea that “Magic problems require magic solutions.” This team may have come together reluctantly, but that is what you come to expect from characters who are not all that used to the idea of big super-heroics or that they can save the world. Read Full Review

  • 8.4
    You Don't Read Comics - Christopher Holden Aug 1, 2018

    While the majority of the issue is spent in exposition, Justice League Dark #1 succeeds in constructing a fun, intriguing narrative with likable heroes, mysterious, terrifying villains, and a new facet to a familiar world. The stage is set, and Justice League Dark looks to be a promising performance. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    That's Entertainment - B.K. Mullen Aug 1, 2018

    As a classic John Constantine fan, I'm very interested in where this will go. It's the dark world/hero crusader universe that they've been attempting in the live action films. This time, they are nailing it. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Word Of The Nerd - Brent Jackson Jul 25, 2018

    This is the best Justice League Dark Team ever and I really don't care whether you agree! Come on, it has Detective Chimp and Man-Bat! Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    All-Comic - Joshua Hilgenberg Jul 25, 2018

    DC's most recent team-book is an easy recommendation for readers who miss these characters, or just want to get to know them. There's no barrier to stop readers from totally understanding what's going on, and the creative team is working together to ensure that everyone from Zatanna to Man-Bat has a cemented personality by the final page of Justice League Dark #1. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    ComicBook.com - Adam Barnhardt Jul 25, 2018

    When one starts to factor in magic and sorcery, however, anything is possible and I feel that as the story progresses, Tynion and company have certainly laid the groundwork to make a series that will keep you gasping as you rapidly flip page to page to try and find out what happens next. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    On Comics Ground - Luis Cruz Jul 27, 2018

    If you were a fan of the New 52 Justice League Dark, then you should be picking this up. James Tynion IV is a great storyteller and he is bound to take us on a supernatural roller coaster. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    The Fandom Post - Chris Beveridge Aug 8, 2019

    I'm a bit disconnected from some of the events launching this from No Justice and we get mentions of Dark Knights' Metal as well. DC has been expanding from both of those for a while and what comes from it are titles I like, but they're weighed a bit by the event itself. JLD looks to move beyond it fairly quickly and shift focus to the danger that's coming which threatens a wide swath of characters and also simply how a good chunk of things function on Earth. I like the inclusion of Diana in it because she does have a strong background in magic if he's not the kind that she can manipulate and actively use in most ways like others. Tynion has a lot going on here and a lot of dialogue but Martinez and Fernandez keep it moving very well while not rushing it or setting up panels covered in dialogue. I'm definitely looking forward to more as it defines its path. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    AIPT - Trevor Richardson Jul 25, 2018

    The characterization of the team is excellent, and the art team does a great job conveying mood and delivering consistently rendered work on every page. I do have some reservations about how far the book will push the envelope and if I'll be completely sold on Wonder Woman's spot on the team, but I can confidently reserve those judgments for later after such a solid start to the series. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comics: The Gathering - Hussein Wasiti Jul 25, 2018

    Martinez and Tynion impress and have me excited for the rest of this series. The characters are all present and look awesome, and it’s just up to Tynion to continue giving Martinez weird things to draw. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    GWW - David Schultz Jul 24, 2018

    If you enjoyed the previous series or other magic-centric titles in the past, put this on your pulls presto.Packed to the gills with supernatural action, elements of horror and strong dialogue this book not only delivers bang for your buck, it truly feels like the start of something special. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Big Comic Page - Craig Neilson-Adams Jul 25, 2018

    Ultimately then, while its clearly still ramping things up story-wise, this first issue proves that this latest JLD resurrection is going to be a worthwhile one, with a blend of interesting characters and a passionate creative team who are clearly planning on shedding a little light on some of the darker corners of the DCU. You can count me in for the foreseeable future, thats for sure. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comic Crusaders - Johnny "The Machine" Hughes Jul 25, 2018

    I am not sure of the logic of this book. Is there a huge Detective Chimp following that I am unaware off? The previous series suffered, as did many of the New 52 books, falling to crossover hell, with the Trinity War and Forever Evil causing all sorts of problems as well as other minor crossovers with books that had very little fan appeal. In the end, not event the writing might of J. M. DeMatteis could stave off the Cancellation Demon. Now Tynion and gang have a chance to show the DC universe in a different light. Ironic, given the title of this series. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Sequential Planet - Chris Terry Jul 28, 2018

    An intriguing premier issue with an eccentric cast of characters to follow. Also, the art is top-notch and worth your time. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Multiversity Comics - Gregory Ellner Jul 26, 2018

    Final Verdict: 8.0" With a well-done introduction to the latest incarnation of a mystical Justice League, “Justice League Dark” #1 definitely carries on from the well-done introduction to the new League since “Dark Nights: Metal” and “Justice League: No Justice.” Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comic Bastards - Hunter T. Patrick Jul 25, 2018

    Justice League Dark is not the perfect start to a series and already stopped the series from being perfect in terms of writing. Luckily it is the art that makes for all the faults worth it, at least until everything builds up to what could be a long-awaited peak for the series. It is surely going to be a series that DC will push strongly for the future and will make previous Justice League Dark fans happy of its return. If you like pretty things buy this book, if you do not get comics for the art, or for Wonder Woman, Justice League teams, or any magical based character then this book is a skip. The art, however, is a must to look at. Read Full Review

  • 7.9
    IGN - Jesse Schedeen Jul 25, 2018

    Justice League Dark #1 succeeds on the strength of its compelling new team. Read Full Review

  • 7.8
    Geekery Magazine - Lucas Fashina Jul 26, 2018

    Justice League Dark Vol 2 #1 comes with three covers; Cover A is drawn by Alvaro Martinez Bueno & Raul Fernandez Cover.Cover B and C Variants are drawn by Greg Capullo & Jonathan Glapion but theCover C is an Incentive Greg Capullo & Jonathan Glapion Inks Cover. Read Full Review

  • 7.8
    Outright Geekery - Antonio Pedro Jul 28, 2018

    I can't fault the book for not being exactly what I wanted out of it, but I am still going to point it out. If you are looking for that sweet spot between horror and superheroes, I am sorry to tell you that this isn't it. But, if you are looking for a fun, stylish and well written blend of superheroes and the supernatural, you can't go wrong here. Read Full Review

  • 7.6
    Outright Geekery - Brian A. Madrid Aug 22, 2018

    All in all, Justice League: Dark #1 got off to a great start. Now that the DC Universe has marked a line in the sand that dares any multiverse to cross it will be the first of many. I love that Wonder Woman has taken the lead to this investigation by the horns. For now, I want to see her and the rest of the dark-art members fight this common enemy on their own. Read Full Review

  • 7.5
    Doom Rocket - Clyde Hall Jul 26, 2018

    Such vivid delights in the inaugural issue of Justice League Dark beguile, with imminent bewitching still to come. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    Weird Science - Reggie Hemingway Jul 25, 2018

    Wonder Woman's getting the band back together...and that's pretty much all that happens in this inaugural issue. If the idea of these characters teaming up fills you with excitement, then I imagine you'll hang on for the next few issues. I know I will. But if you think DC's magic side is silly, then you can probably skip this series entirely. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    ComicBuzz - Victoria Wilton Sep 24, 2018

    A fascinating plot combined with an almost cinematic art style. This series promises to live up to its name, creating a truly dark and disturbing Justice League that I look forward to seeing more of. Read Full Review

  • 6.4
    Major Spoilers - Stacy Baugher Jul 25, 2018

    It has a unique line up, with at least one choice I was surprised by. Overall, it is a solid book but it might take a little longer to remember the spells to be true magic. Keep your eye on it and pick it up if magic heroes are your thing. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    The Batman Universe - Ian Miller Jul 27, 2018

    Though a bit overly dependent on previous events, Tynion and Martinez produce an exciting, atmospheric opening for this new Justice League Dark. Read Full Review

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