Wonder Woman 80th Anniversary 100-Page Super Spectacular Review
- WRITER
- Michael W Conrad, G. Willow Wilson, Vita Ayala, Becky Cloonan, Stephanie Phillips, Tom King, Steve Orlando, Amy Reeder, Mark Waid, Jordie Bellaire
- Artist
- Jim Cheung, Paulina Ganucheau, Evan "Doc" Shaner, Amy Reeder, José Luis García-López, Marcio Takara, Laura Braga, Isaac Goodhart, Joe Prado, Meghan Hetrick
- Letterer
- Clem Robins, Carlos Mangual, John Workman, Clayton Cowles, Rob Leigh, Becca Carey, Pat Brosseau
- Cover Artist
- Nathan Fairbairn, Yanick Paquette
- Publisher
- DC Comics
- Price
- 9.99
- Release Date
- 2021-10-05
- Colorist
- Marissa Louise, Romulo Fajardo Jr., Evan "Doc" Shaner, Marcelo Maiolo, Trish Mulvihill, Jeremy Lawson, Kendall Goode
If there's any superhero who instills courage, wisdom and inspires people everywhere to become the better version of themselves, it's Wonder Woman. Created by William Marston and H.G. Peter, Wonder Woman made her debut in 1941's All-Star Comics #8. 2021 marks the 80th anniversary of Diana Prince's first appearance. To celebrate such a momentous occasion, DC Comics announced a multi-month spread of events honoring the daughter of Themyscira -- one of them being a super spectacular 100-page special created by an ensemble of talented artists and writers from across the comic book industry to give their spin on the relevance of the character, now more than ever.
Wonder Woman 80th Anniversary 100-Page Super Spectacular is an anthology of short stories celebrating Diana's past, present, and future. Whether it's the flying forties or the roaring sixties, the comic book reminds readers of all the lives Wonder Woman has touched upon throughout her lengthy career as a protector of the world. The special brings artists and writers -- new and veterans alike -- to create delightful stories full of heartwarming courage and empowerment. In some stories, Diana confronts world leaders and holds them accountable for their ineptitude. In other stories, Wonder Woman is a caring colleague guiding others. More than anything, this issue splendidly captures that Wonder Woman is the most humane of all superheroes.
One of the strongest entries in this collection is penned by Vita Ayala, who balances thrilling action with a heartfelt tale. Wonder Woman is trapped in a dire situation where on one side is her ferocious rival Cheetah, while on the other hangs the lives of children in the balance. She offers her life up and implores Cheetah to save the children, holding out hope that there is still some good in her. Beautifully inked by Isaac Goodheart, the story is full of hope.
While other stories go back in time to the Golden Age era -- giving a throwback to Etta Candy and her Holliday Girls -- none captures the nostalgic tunes of the past more than Tom King's "Dated." With artist Evan "Doc" Shaner's mottled brushstrokes setting the mood for the grooving '60s, Diana Prince goes on a date with Clark Kent, and even without her powers, she enjoys life to her fullest, giving Clark a new perspective that inspires him to keep on fighting the good fight.
Like all works of art, there certainly are some hits and misses. G. Willow Wilson's "Low Orbit" falls in the latter category. While the story has its heart in the right place, the tale lacks depth like the others and feels like a generic superhero plot. While its stylized artwork creates spectacular action it does little to elevate the story.
However, the collection's must-read story is by Wonder Woman veterans, writer Mark Waid and artist Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez. It shows that even the Godliest of heroes can find themselves in low spirits. But it is the acknowledgment of one's weaknesses and the striving to better that truly showcases Wonder Woman's worldview.
Wonder Woman 80th Anniversary 100-Page Super Spectacular is a celebration of everything that the Amazonian princess personifies -- an inherent love for peace and compassion. The cultural impact that the character has over the years is immense and it is aptly highlighted by the talented creative teams who have given their hearts to creating a book that feels one-of-a-kind. A collection of all the multi-faceted aspects of a multi-dimensional character, Wonder Woman 80th Anniversary 100-Page Super Spectacular is a must-have for fans of all ages.