I've caught a few episodes of the new Justice League Unlimited cartoon, and the plotting has varied in quality. But what it does deliver is a wonderful variety of characters, creating new interpersonal dynamics we haven't seen before. The comic-book series delivers the same sort of fun mix of unusual characters, but the plotlines here and the new takes on the villains just didn't sit well with me. The art is clear and capable, but it doesn't really capture the majesty and larger-than-life qualities of the heroes. Kids will likely still enjoy this book, but the way some of the heroes behave will leave some readers scratching their heads.
A few members of the Justice League gather together on their satellite headquarters for a regular poker game, and Booster Gold is getting frustrated over the fact that Superman is on a winning streak that defies logic. Before he can delve into the question of whether or not the Man of Tomorrow is cheating, a call for help rings out. The Royal Flush Gang is on the loose in Las Vegas, and Superman, Booster, the Flash, Huntress and Steel rush off to save the day. Each takes on a different member of the gang, and most discover the thieves powers make for quite a challenge.
Beavers's artwork on this issue reminds me of a cross between the styles of Aluir (Superman Adventures) Amancio and Tim (Batman: Gotham Adventures) Levins. I'm pleased to see the original Booster Gold design is the one the cartoon's producers opted to use, as it strikes me as the strongest one there's been. The heroes and villains tend to contort when they're springing into action, and it comes off as a little odd. The more varied Royal Flush Gang designs don't do much for me either.
I understand why this incarnation of the Royal Flush Gang has powers; obviously, the goal is to make them more of a match for the heroes of the Justice League. But something's lost in the process. The gang's reputation as skilled and clever thieves is cast off, and instead, they're a group of seemingly unrelated super-villains here. The card motif doesn't work with the individual powers at all.
First of all, the notion that Booster Gold would suspect Superman of cheating is ridiculous, but the Flash's explanation for the Man of Steel's run of "luck" is even more outlanding. It's dishonest, and if Superman found out what was going on, he'd no doubt be insulted, as would anyone. Furthermore, if someone is going to accuse Superman of cheating, why would they wonder how he's pulling it off? X-Ray vision... ever heard of it? Everyone else has. This logical possibility is left unsaid here. 4/10
