The 10 Greatest JUSTICE LEAGUE Comic Book Runs, Ranked

As a long-time comic book enthusiast who has seen more than my fair share of superhero teams come and go, I must say that the run by Keith Giffen and J.M. DeMatteis on Justice League International truly stands out as one of the most unique and entertaining takes on the team. The bickering and snarky banter between characters like Blue Beetle, Booster Gold, and Green Lantern Guy Gardner was a breath of fresh air in the serious world of superhero comics at the time. Artist Kevin Maguire’s expressive faces only added to the comedic nature of the stories, making them shine even more.

The world of comic books has no shortage of iconic superhero teams. But in the end, DC Comics‘ Justice League remains the best of the best, simply because it boasts a roster of Earth’s greatest and most iconic heroes. Among them, Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. But when it comes to the League’s various series over the past sixty years, which runs are the all-time greatest? Whether it’s as the Justice League of America, International, Unlimited, or very simply “the Justice League,” these are our rankings for their greatest comic book creative runs of all time.

10. JLA by Joe Kelly

with Doug Mahnke, Chris Cross

As a lifelong comic book enthusiast, I find myself often drawn to stories that delve deep into the complexities of characters we all know and love. In my humble opinion, the run of Justice League during the late ’90s and early 2000s, penned by writer Joe Kelly and artist Doug Mahnke, stands out as a hidden gem among the pantheon of DC Comics storylines.

Among Joe Kelly and Doug Mahnke’s work, the standout tale is “The Obsidian Age.” This captivating story explores time travel, as the Justice League journeys back to the ancient Atlantean era thousands of years ago. Simultaneously, a new League emerges in the present, featuring characters who were long due for their League roles, such as Nightwing. Joe Kelly’s run also delved into the mini-series “Justice League Elite,” which served as a critique on extreme vigilante groups like the Authority that were popular during that period. Unfortunately, this remarkable run often goes unrecognized. Here’s hoping more readers will unearth its brilliance in the future.

Issues in Joe Kelly’s JLA Run:

JLA #61-90, Justice League Elite #1-12 (2001-2005)

9. Justice League of America by Gardner Fox

with Mike Sekowsky, Sheldon Moldoff

To a contemporary reader, the initial series of “Justice League of America” might appear quite outdated. It was primarily designed for younger audiences, with characters defined more by their costumes and powers than distinct personalities. However, despite this, the series’ creator, Gardner Fox, and artist Mike Sekowsky infused it with a great deal of creativity. They introduced villains that continue to pose significant threats to the Justice League even today. Some of these formidable antagonists like the alien tyrant Despero, the malicious alternate Justice League known as the Crime Syndicate, the artificial intelligence Amazo, and the sorcerer Felix Faust first made their appearance in this original run. If you can tap into your younger self’s perspective, these stories remain enjoyable reads.

In simpler terms, these initial Justice League of America (JLA) tales helped develop the notion of the DC Multiverse and set the pattern for annual crossovers between Justice League and Justice Society. These stories, though labeled as “kiddy,” aimed to educate children about real-life science ideas using imaginative sci-fi narratives. In the beginning, Batman and Superman were kept under wraps in the comics due to DC editors feeling they didn’t need additional exposure. However, when the Batman ’66 TV show became popular, this rule was abandoned, allowing Superman and Batman to play more significant roles. If you consider these stories from a child’s perspective in the 1960s, you can understand how they laid the groundwork for a franchise that has endured through time.

Issues in Gardner Fox’s Justice League of America Run:

The Brave and the Bold #28-30, Justice League of America (vol.1) #1-65 (1960-1968)

8. Justice League by Geoff Johns

with Jim Lee, Ivan Reis, Jason Fabok

Geoff Johns is renowned for his significant contributions to DC Comics series such as The Flash, Teen Titans, Justice Society of America, and particularly Green Lantern. Additionally, he held the position of president at DC Entertainment. He was recognized for expanding upon DC’s rich history. However, when DC decided to reboot their entire universe in 2011 with their New 52 project, Johns and renowned artist (and DC co-publisher) Jim Lee began anew. Together, they constructed the world’s most iconic superheroes from the ground up, introducing them as fresh heroes for the first time in modern times. The younger versions of DC legends reunited again, with Cyborg taking the place of Martian Manhunter as a team founder.

In the initial storyline, the team embarks on an epic mission to prevent Darkseid from destroying the world, which served as a major inspiration for Zack Snyder’s Justice League movie. As this series unfolded, it featured unexpected twists such as Lex Luthor turning over a new leaf and becoming a team member, along with a fresh interpretation of the Crime Syndicate. Some plot points raised eyebrows, like the controversial Superman/Wonder Woman relationship, but overall, it was an enjoyable and visually stunning comic book experience. The artwork from Jim Lee, followed by Ivan Reis and Jason Fabok, consistently left readers in awe with its exceptional quality. However, much of this run no longer aligns with the current DC Comics continuity, making it somewhat confusing to follow.

Issues in Geoff Johns’ Justice League Run:

Justice League (vol. 2) #1-50 (2011-2015)

7. JLA by Mark Waid

with Howard Porter, Bryan Hitch

Mark Waid is often overlooked as an exceptional writer for the Justice League series, but he truly deserves recognition. He revamped the classic JLA team lineup for contemporary times through the 1996 mini-series “Justice League: A Midsummer’s Nightmare,” and later took over from Grant Morrison on JLA, writing issues #43-60. During this time, he penned the groundbreaking story “Tower of Babel” where Ra’s al Ghul used Batman’s plans to dismantle the League, serving as inspiration for the animated movie “Justice League: Doom.” Waid also introduced the malevolent Queen of Fables in a collaboration with future Ultimates artist Bryan Hitch.

Beyond the primary Justice League (JLA) comic book series, Mark Waid has also penned “Justice League: Year One,” providing a contemporary take on the team’s early days in collaboration with artist Barry Kitson. Some might argue that Waid and Alex Ross’ mini-series, “Kingdom Come,” while not strictly part of the JLA title, can be considered a Justice League story, making his impact on these classic heroes even more significant. It is safe to say that few writers have as profound an understanding of these iconic characters as Mark Waid does. In the upcoming year, he will be working with the team once again in the ongoing “Justice League Unlimited” series. If this new project matches the quality of his previous JL works, his position on this list could rise even higher.

Issues in Mark Waid’s JLA Run:

1. Justice League’s Midsummer Nightmare #1-3 (1996), also known as JLA issues #18-21, 32-33, 43-60 (1998-2002), and JLA: Year One #1-12 (1998-1999)

6. Justice League: The Nail by Alan Davis

As a devoted fan, let me tell you that this Justice League tale isn’t confined by the traditional DC timeline; it’s an Elseworlds run, if you will. However, its status outside of regular continuity doesn’t diminish its standing as a timeless Justice League adventure.

In a universe much like the DC one we’re familiar with, if the Kents hadn’t shaped Superman, our world wouldn’t have its Man of Steel. This hypothetical scenario raises questions about the very backbone of the Justice League. Davis’ comic series, featuring his signature clean lines and vintage aesthetic, presents a captivating storyline. The plot takes unexpected turns that are thrilling. So popular was this series that it led to another mini-series sequel, “Justice League: Another Nail“, venturing into even more unconventional territories. Together, these Justice League runs are an underestimated treasure.

Issues in Alan Davis’ Justice League: The Nail Run:

Justice League: The Nail #1-3 (1998) Justice League of America: Another Nail #1-4 (2004)

5. Justice League of America by Brad Meltzer

with Ed Benes, Gene Ha

As a dedicated admirer, I’d like to share that Brad Meltzer, renowned for his gripping thrillers such as “The Tenth Justice,” has an additional passion – comic books! Having long dreamt of working with the JLA, he seized the opportunity given by his unconventional approach to DC Comics in “Identity Crisis.” In 2006, he was granted the chance to showcase his affection for DC’s superheroes through a somewhat traditional reboot of the team titled “Justice League of America.” During his year-long collaboration with artist Ed Benes, I watched as the power trio of Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman reunited following a prolonged separation to form a new squad. Notable additions included Black Lightning and Red Arrow, former sidekick to Green Arrow.

In the course of Meltzer’s tenure, Black Canary stepped up as team leader for the first time, and tales such as “The Tornado’s Path” offered meaningful character growth to the often overlooked android member Red Tornado. One of his most remarkable story arcs was “The Lightning Saga,” where Justice League, Justice Society, and Legion of Super-Heroes managed to retrieve Flash Wally West from the timestream following a prolonged absence of more than a year. Ed Benes’ artwork reached its peak of sophistication and allure during this run on Justice League of America. The only drawback was that his stint was regrettably too short. We eagerly look forward to seeing him back with our world’s mightiest heroes.

Issues in Brad Meltzer’s Justice League of America Run:

Justice League of America (vol.2) #0-12 (2006-2007)

4. Justice League of America by Gerry Conway

with Dick Dillin, George Perez

As a comic book enthusiast, I’m known for penning the tragic demise of Peter Parker’s beloved Gwen Stacy in “Amazing Spider-Man.” However, after my stint at Marvel Comics, I moved on to DC and penned “Justice League of America” for quite a while, collaborating with artists like Dick Dillin and an up-and-coming talent named George Perez. During my time with the League, I injected more personal strife into the team, who in the Silver Age were always getting along famously. This was also when the League set up camp in an orbiting satellite, high above our beloved Earth.

During Gerry Conway’s tenure, several notable events took place. He introduced characters like Zatanna the magician and Firestorm, the Nuclear Man into the main roster. A significant crossover between the Justice League and Justice Society occurred where they worked together to solve a murder mystery on the JLA Satellite. Additionally, there was a three-part story involving the JLA, JSA, and New Gods joining forces to combat Darkseid. Unfortunately, Conway’s run ended with the not-so-well-received “Justice League Detroit” era, which we prefer not to dwell on. However, it must be acknowledged that Conway attempted something bold and innovative during his time.

Issues in Gerry Conway’s Justice League of America Run:

The issues of Justice League of America (volume 1), specifically numbers 125 to 127, 131 to 134, 151 to 216, 219, 221 to 223, 228 to 230, 233 to 239, and 241 to 255, published between the years 1974 and 1984.

3. Justice League by Scott Snyder

with James Tynion IV, Jim Cheung, Jorge Jimenez, Francis Manapul, Mikel Janin

When people express their fondness for “Snyder’s Justice League,” they are referring to the work of writer Scott Snyder. After garnering praise for his Batman series, Snyder chose to focus on Bruce Wayne’s fellow Justice League members. Alongside artists like Jorge Jimenez and Jim Cheung, he embarked on a grand revamp of the Justice League comic, which is arguably the most space-exploring and thought-provoking run since Grant Morrison was the title’s writer. In Snyder’s version of Justice League, numerous lesser-known DC characters make an appearance, not to mention one of the silliest yet endearing additions – Jarro, a clone of Starro the giant cosmic starfish, who is devoted only to Batman.

Beyond turning the Legion of Doom into a tangible danger rather than merely a nod to the “Super Friends”, Snyder also introduced Perpetua, the mother of all universes and arguably the most powerful being in DC’s storied history. The team composition was impressive as well, blending elements from the animated “Justice League Unlimited” with the DCEU lineup. While some of Snyder’s concepts can be overly ambitious, he may not quite match Grant Morrison’s skill in handling “grand and cosmic” storytelling. Regrettably, many plotlines initiated in “Justice League” were wrapped up in other series under his control, like “Dark Nights Metal”. However, when Snyder’s vision for “Justice League” comes together, it truly shines.

Issues in Scott Snyder’s Justice League Run:

Justice League (vol. 4) #1-39 (2018-2020)

2. Justice League International by Keith Giffen and J. M. DeMatteis

with Kevin Maguire, Adam Hughes, Chris Sprouse, Bart Sears, Darick Robertson, Chris Wozniak

After the events of the “Crisis on Infinite Earths”, DC gave a fresh start to characters like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. However, their earlier team, the Justice League, particularly the “Justice League Detroit” version, didn’t fare well. Instead of rushing to gather all their main seven characters in one book, DC decided to take a different approach. Thus, the creative team consisting of writers Keith Giffen and J. M. DeMatteis, along with artist Kevin Maguire, introduced a new version of the Justice League in “Justice League International”. This team was quite unlike its predecessors, as it incorporated elements of almost sitcom comedy alongside superhero action.

In this rendition, Justice League International showcased well-known figures such as Batman and Martian Manhunter, but it was lesser-known characters like Blue Beetle, Booster Gold, Fire & Ice, and a rather annoying Green Lantern, Guy Gardner who stole the limelight. Their constant bickering and witty banter were unprecedented in a superhero comic at the time, especially for one that wasn’t a parody. The expressive artwork of Kevin Maguire further highlighted the comedic essence of these stories. Justice League International was such a hit, it eventually split into two books – Justice League America and Justice League Europe, and this run continued for an impressive five years. This period also marked the debut of artists like Adam Hughes, Darick Robertson, and Mike McKone in the industry. It’s arguably the only truly outstanding version of the team that didn’t revolve around the DC Trinity as its core.

Issues in Keith Giffen and J. M. DeMatteis’ Justice League International Run:

1. The first six issues of the initial Justice League volume, followed by issues 7 to 62 of Justice League International (second volume), the subsequent 36 issues of Justice League Europe, and finally, the four issues of Justice League Quarterly (published between 1990 and 1991).

1. JLA by Grant Morrison

with Howard Porter, Frank Quitely

It often requires around thirty years for an idea to reach its peak, as demonstrated by the revival of Grant Morrison’s and Howard Porter’s “JLA”. In this comic series, the original seven members of the Justice League were brought together again after several decades, with Wally West and Kyle Rayner taking on the roles of The Flash and Green Lantern respectively. Morrison considered the Justice League as the contemporary equivalents of Greek deities, portraying their Watchtower HQ on the moon as a modern Mount Olympus. He incorporated the peculiar aspects from his works such as “Arkham Asylum” and “Doom Patrol” into this more mainstream context.

In simpler terms, Grant Morrison wrote stories that were truly grandiose, or “epic” as often said. These tales saw the League battling Martians disguised as superheroes and an army of angels from Heaven, among other challenges. The narrative began with a saga called “Rock of Ages,” where the team faced off against Luthor and Joker’s new Injustice League, their sinister holographic counterparts, and a future where Darkseid ruled supreme. The run continued with the League encountering their descendants from the far future (Justice Legion Alpha) and even characters from the Sandman series. Morrison and Porter’s work spanned four years, producing 41 issues. To this day, it remains the Justice League version that all others are measured against.

Issues in Grant Morrison’s JLA Run:

1. The issues of Justice League America numbered from 1 to 17, 22 to 26, 28 to 31, 34, 36 to 41, the first issue of JLA: Secret Files, the first issue of New Year’s Evil: Prometheus #1, the first issue of JLA/WildC.A.T.S., DC One Million issues 1-4, JLA: Earth 2 (all from the years 1997 to 2000), and the initial three issues of JLA: Classified (from 2004).

2024-08-16 20:34