The Multiversity is Grant Morrison‘s sweep through DC Comics’ multiverse looking at unforgettable characters across the 52 known Earths. The series features a two-part framing story (the first is already out) and six complete extra-sized #1 adventures, each set in a parallel universe.

The Multiversity: The Society of Super-Heroes: Conquerors of the Counter-World #1 takes us to Earth-20, and pulp super hero action with a post-modern twist. Who is the demon-like Green Lantern protecting Earth-20? What secret does Doc Fate hold that could save the world? Who are the hand-to-hand and air-to-air combat queens known as the Blackhawks? And what happens when these heroes come face to face with their diabolical Earth-40 counterparts – led by Vandal Savage – for an epic war between parallel worlds? The title alone tells you the type of story you’re about to read.

I wasn’t too keen on the first chapter of The Multiversity. Without a deep knowledge of DC Comics lore, I felt that reading the comic so much was going over my head, and I missed much of the point. This issue however continues the overall theme of heroes battling ultimate evil and undying hatred, however the inside nods and winks are less prevalent, making the entire issue much more enjoyable.

The entire issue has a pulp sense about it, in both look and story, and bringing back the feel of what comics should be, fun to read. The issue is a throwback to the classics, paying tribute to them. That also extends to the story in this issue. Though it’s tied into the larger event, the issue itself is self-contained. You’re able to pick it up without reading The Multiversity #1 and still enjoy it. It isn’t weighed down by nods and winks at all. It has a balance for those who want an entertaining self-contained story, those who care about the larger narrative, and then then those who know all the DC historical references that are present. Though I’m sure those references are there, I didn’t feel like I was missing out on not knowing them all.

Morrison is helped in the feel of the issue due to Chris Sprouse‘s amazing art. A pulp adventure should have a certain look to it all, and Sprouse harkens back to the classics, in both style, but also pacing and panel layout. Add in beautiful coloring, and you have a comic that’s fun to read, and fun to look at.

I love to read a fun, entertaining comic whose goal is to tell a self-contained story, and to be able to do that, while also tying into the greater narrative is impressive. For those who want a fun pulp adventure, this is a must read, for fans of Morrison’s work, you won’t be disappointed either.

Story: Grant Morrison Art: Chris Sprouse
Story: 8.25 Art: 9 Overall: 8.25 Recommendation: Buy

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review