Alan Moores: Judgment Day

Note: Sadly, this story sets up the wonderful and defunct Youngblood revamp, that has yet to be collected, or even released in its entirety.

The plot, in short: the Awesome Entertainment superhero community is shocked by the murder of Youngblood member Riptide. The prime suspect is fellow Youngblood member Knightsabre; however, during the trial, it is revealed that details of the case originate at the dawn of time. What follows is a series of flashbacks over thousands of years in the Awesome Comics universe, building to a surprise conclusion. As in Supreme, Moore weaves a very complex story, strengthened by the involvement of "Silver Age" characters he introduced in Supreme, as well as analogues of other famous comic and literary characters. As a result, Youngblood is provided with a history of sorts. The framing story is illustrated by Rob Liefeld, with the flashback sequences handled by a host of guest-artists, including Chris Sprouse and the great Gil Kane. Also included is an overview of some of Moores other Silver Age characters, in a story that is a tribute to, and illustrated by, Gil Kane. Additionally, there is a kick-off for another Youngblood series featuring Shaft, Suprema, and a handfull of new characters.

So, the story alone warrants 5 stars. What really solidifies the rating for this book, however, is the message that Alan Moore presents to the reader: the fact that Youngblood and other Liefeld characters are angry, bloodthirsty, conflict-motivated anti-heroes that changed the face of comics for the worse. He shows that, compared to the comic characters of yesteryear, this type of character is ridiculous and irrelevant. Its so fitting that, as the members of Youngblood listen to testimony during the trial, they begin to realize that they are out of their league. Rightly so! Whats so amazing is that Moore could present this message with Liefelds say-so. Who knows... maybe Liefeld has actually come to realize this?

But even if Liefelds approach to superheroes has possibly matured, his artwork certainly hasnt. It amazes me that, after 15 years in the industry, the man still has no understanding of layouts and anatomy.