REVIEW: DC's Black Adam: The Justice Society Files Cyclone #1

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    Black Adam - The Justice Society Files: Cyclone #1
    Writer:
    Cavan Scott
    Artist:
    Maria Laura Sanapo
    Letterer:
    Becca Carey
    Cover Artist:
    Kaare Andrews
    Publisher:
    DC
    Price:
    $5.99
    Release Date:
    2022-08-03
    Colorist:
    Arif Prianto

As the release of Dwayne Johnson's Black Adam approaches, readers are treated to the second installment of the limited run of Black Adam: The Justice Society Files. The new issue is all about Maxine Hunkel. Brought to life by the creative team of Cavan Scott and Maria Laura Sanapo, Black Adam: The Justice Society File Cyclone #1 tells the story of a young woman who has always admired The Justice Society.

Maxine has dreamed about being a member of the JSA since she was a young girl. So when Hawkman recruits her for the team, Maxine must choose what kind of hero she will be. The backup story, written by Bryan Q. Miller, picks up where readers left off in Black Adam: The Justice Society Files Hawkman #1, giving fans a chance to see more of Khandaq's early days.

Related: REVIEW: DC's The New Champion of Shazam #1

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This issue does a good job of reinventing parts of Maxine's history to fit this new approach to the character. Scott depicts Maxine as a young hero on the cusp of adulthood, who is trying to manage her life and her powers. It's a charming look at the life of someone who gets a chance to live their ultimate fantasy. Scott explores Cyclone's insecurities while highlighting her altruistic nature. By balancing her self-doubt with her endearing personality and heroic spirit, Scott allows her to be a multifaceted, compelling young woman.

As strong as Scott's writing is in Black Adam: The Justice Society Files Cyclone #1, the artwork is even more impressive. Maria Laura Sanapo captures the likeness of Quintessa Swindell, the actor who plays Cyclone in Black Adam, effortlessly. Sanapo brings Maxine to soaring new heights when the action scenes call for her powers to activate. She's still learning to control her powers, which gives Sanapo ample opportunity to capture a uniquely chaotic and chaotic moment. She brings a sincerity and compassion to Cyclone's wide range of emotions, making the action all the more compelling. Each panel flows smoothly from one scene to the next. Sanapo seems to be equally at home drawing wild action sequences and down-to-earth moments of introspection.

Related: REVIEW: DC's Sword of Azrael #1

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Black Adam: The Justice Society Files Cyclone #1 gives readers another look at the extended Black Adam universe that is forming and allows fans to get to know these characters before the film debuts on Oct. 21st. This book works incredibly well as a new origin for Cyclone. Scott artfully updates the character while acknowledging her history. Between Sanapo's great art and Scott's dialogue, readers are sure to relate to this young hero.