REVIEW: ‘The Jurassic League,’ Issue #1

The Jurassic League #1 is published by DC Comics and written by Juan Gedeon and Daniel Warren Johnson, with art by Gedeon, colours by Mike Spicer, and letters by Ferran Delgado. In a prehistoric alternate universe, a set of superheroic dinosaurs fight evil in different corners of the Jurassic era.

This is a plot filled with pure joy and fun. The comic is split into four sections, each covering a different dinosaur based on a Justice League member. They vary in their tones and settings. Some are rather dark, with Bat Walker’s part being distinctly so. However, like Aquaman’s dino counterpart, others are more adventurous, and Supersaur’s carries the same hope as any other Superman tale. The fight scenes that unfold are violent and intense as these reptiles tear shreds off each other, but the book’s mood is ultimately ridiculous and enjoyable. But it should be said that the plot moves sideways instead of forwards, spending the entirety of the issue introducing the characters. This is important considering the brand new and incredibly unique universe. 

There are four heroes brought to the Jurassic age so far in The Jurassic League #1: versions of Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and Aquaman. At first glance, it appears that certain species of dinosaurs are capable of living alongside early humans. Humans are almost secondary in this world as the reptilian creatures serve as their protectors or their predators. Each hero is a different species, and exploring this is one of the most delightful aspects of the book. The appearances of each character that Gedeon and Johnson introduce are another example of these two’s creative brilliance. 

Their origins have remained similar, so they are recognisable, and their motivations for doing what they do is apparent. Bat Walker lost his parents, Supersaur was rescued and raised, and Wonderdon is on an island far away. It is as if the heroes just appeared millions of years before they should have. It is not just these four that have representatives in this Jurassic world, as many villains also make an appearance. It provides excitement for who we may see in upcoming issues.

The art is so fantastic as it matches the fun nature of the book. Gedeon’s designs are so unique for all the super-powered dinos; none are similar in shape or size. Many of these figures don’t necessarily resemble dinosaurs, but this is by no means a book relying on accuracy. The species of dinosaur used for every character appears to be an amalgamation of how it matches their personality and how it will look. Perhaps the best is that of the Jokerzard, who looks ominous and terrifying. The fight scenes are an epic battle of martial arts, powers, and good old beast wars, with giant teeth and claws tearing at each other. 

This is an incredibly colourful issue. The tones are varied and vibrant, making the comic even more visually attractive. The blending between strong colours is exceptional. The tones also alter slightly depending on the story. Where it can be bright and passionate, it can also become dark and unsettling. The lettering is key to developing a voice for the characters, with some unique word balloons and SFX.

The Jurassic League #1 is a ridiculous delight. It’s “what if the Justice League were dinosaurs” and not much else. Don’t question the fact dinosaurs and cavemen are living together or the super-powered reptilians have speech. There are a lot of aspects of this comic that do not make sense, but it really doesn’t matter. Enjoy it for what it is. It’s a book built on silliness, and it left me laughing. 

The Jurassic League #1 is available where comics are sold.