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Future State: Shazam #1 is published by DC Comics, written by Tim Sheridan, pencils by Eduardo Pansica, inks by Julio Ferreira, colors by Marcelo Maiolo, and letters by Rob Leigh. The multiverse has shaken free from the events of Death Metal, and the unwritten events of alternate dimensions are given new life in the continuing Future State series.
In Future State: Shazam! #1, “The Last Temptation of William Batson” Shazam’s conscience is weighing on him. It’s clear that recent events have taken their toll on him, although we’re not clear on what has happened. Shazam is not the same person we knew from the past, and now, as the leader of the Justice League of America, his team has become suspicious too. The reason is darker than you can imagine!
Sheridan has certainly imagined a dark, and seedy future for Shazam where the weight of his choices have dramatically influenced his heroic decision making. Once a friendly beacon of hope, the godlike being is solemn and unapproachable. The contrast created by Sheridan leaves you with a sense of utter bemusement, how can someone like Shazam fall from grace in such a grizzly manner.
The ending is agonizing and steeped in anguish. It’s something that was truly unexpected but left a huge impression on the entire issue. One that warrants a second read through. Sheridan has done more than enough to warrant my attention to the follow-up issue.
The art from Pansica and Ferriera delivers to create some brilliant imagery. Especially of note is the facial reactions of Shazam himself, as they mirror the dialogue so perfectly. Far beyond this work, are the non-verbal cues that serve to reinforce a different hero than the one we once knew. An overabundant use of sunken head and shoulders, as if our hero is trying to escape inside himself.
Ferreira adds excellent depth with his inks to Pensica’s pencils. The muscular definition in Shazam’s physique is the most notable example. The duo’s work combines really nicely to create imagery that really stands to make an impact on the reader.
The work from Maiolo shows a great understanding of the shading of color within an image to create something of an impact. The excessive use of a wide range of coloring serves to elevate the work of the inks and pencils from Ferriera, and Pensacola. The imagery jumps nicely from the page, while also being packed to the rafters with details to lord over.
Leighs’ letters worked well. They were well placed, and not distracting from the art, while keeping the pace of the story moving. The onomatopoeia designs were dynamically designed and jump from the page.
Overall, the creators have crafted something highly entertaining, while being vastly contrasting to the characters we know. Sheridan has layered in so much mystery and intrigue it’s going to be hard to resist the urge to immediately pick up issue #2.
Future State has certainly been a refreshing event so far.
Future State: Shazam #1 is available now wherever comics are sold.
Future State: Shazam! Issue #1
TL;DR
Overall, the creative have crafted something highly entertaining, while being vastly contrasting to the characters we know. Sheridan has layered in so much mystery and intrigue it’s going to be hard to resist the urge to immediately pick up issue #2.
Aaron is a contributing writer at But Why Tho, serving as a reviewer for TV and Film.
Hailing originally from England, and after some lengthy questing, he’s currently set up shop in Pennsylvania. He spends his days reading comics, podcasting, and being attacked by his small offspring.