After a long absence (though one ably filled by two prequel mini-series), Jupiter's Legacy is finally back on the stands. This first issue doesn't miss a beat as Mark Millar and Frank Quitely settle back into their world and explore what happens when the supervillains find themselves becoming the heroes. As with the previous volume, this issue will offer solid entertainment as long as you don't go into the book expecting it to bring anything radically new or different to the table.
The crux of Jupiter's Legacy's appeal has always been "Frank Quitely drawing a new superhero comic," and that certainly hasn't changed in the many months since the previous volume wrapped up. Quitely is second to none when it comes to creating vibrant superhero characters with unique fashions and a real sense of weight and body language. Millar gives the artist ample variety in this issue, with scenes ranging from quiet, contemplative character interaction to raucous car chases to epic displays of superhuman power. There's a vaguely rough, sketchy quality to Quitely's line-work, but one that gives the book more a frenetic quality than a rushed appearance. Sunny Gho's colors also go a long way towards achieving a lush, cinematic feel.
Millar seems to revel in the fact that the dynamic between heroes and villains has shifted in this universe, as Chloe and her family lead an all-out revolt against the heroes who have usurped power and made a terrible mess of things. For the most part, this issue plays out like a frantic recruiting drive, as Chloe and Hutch race to gather allies before those allies can fall into the hands of her uncle. As with many Millar comics, the story is fast-paced and exciting but a bit lacking in depth. "Decompressed" is probably a fair word to use, and like the previous volume, Jupiter's legacy 2 will probably read better in collected form rather than month-to-month. Though at least this volume should actually ship on a monthly basis.
It's actually the opening flashback where this issue shines the most, as Millar takes the time to delve a little deeper into Hutch's past and a crucial encounter with his father. In some ways, the Jupiter's Circle books have proven to be more satisfying reads because they tend to focus more on those quieter character moments. If this series can tap into that element more than its predecessor, it could easily offer the best of both worlds.
The Verdict
It's good to have Jupiter's Legacy back on the stands. This series might not radically reinvent superhero comics as we know them, but it does feature two talented creators weaving an exciting and visually stunning tale of villains taking the world back from the heroes that failed it. If this issue is any judge, hopefully this sequel can offer the deeper character work that the original sometimes lacked.
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