Final Crisis Requiem #1

Let’s face it, J’onn was the DCU equivalent of a comfy sofa. A little worn out perhaps, but always reliable; you’ve tried tarting it up – bought a natty new throw, and some scatter cushions – but nothing ever quite hides the faint musky odour, or the shadow of the stain from the cat being sick down the back. So out with the old; and as you lug the old faithful down to the bonfire, let’s take a few moments to remember the good times.

Requiem is a surprisingly effective remembrance of the Manhunter from Mars’ life, from a writer who obviously cares. I was surprised by some of the details included, such as J’onn’s membership of the Justice Experience (from the underrated Chase series a decade or so back), and Batman sending J’onn on his way with an Oreo cookie.

For those who moaned about the Martian’s one panel demise in Final Crisis, here you will find many pages devoted to his summary execution (it’s not pleasant!), and a fitting farewell to a character that may have worn out his usefulness for now, but I have no doubt will return refreshed one day.