Chances are if there’s a superhero character with a rich history, they’ve had a protege or family member follow in their heroic footsteps. This is one of the things I really like about superheroism, and it’s an element the DC Universe has perfected. It also allows writers to dig into what makes each hero distinct; every Robin has had their own struggles, every Green Lantern a reason why people like them. Black Lightning #3 dives into this headfirst by putting its focus on its titular heroes’ daughters Anissa (aka Thunder) and Jennifer (aka Lightning).
They both have their own issues to deal with: after Absolute Power, Anissa’s powers have rapidly shifted, leading her to flare up and cause destruction on top of some unresolved resentment at Jefferson. Jennifer, meanwhile, has to deal with a trip to Steelworks being interrupted by the element-wielding Masters of Disaster. Thankfully, she has Natasha Irons – who’s taken up her uncle’s heroic mantle as Steel – to help her out.
Brandon Thomas and Fico Ossio don’t waste any time delving into the legacy aspect of the comic. The very first page has Jennifer talking about what she loves and hates about being a superhero with fellow teen heroes like Stargirl, Blue Beetle and Kid Flash. I applaud Thomas for this, as it’s a nice reminder that you can write good superhero comics that aren’t massive fight scenes – it’s nice to stop and build character.
DC
This sequence is also a great way to highlight the difference between the Pierce sisters. Jennifer is more open, more in control of her powers, while Anissa is more guarded. But Black Lightning #3 also reminds us that Jefferson Pierce loves his family, as he shares a tender moment with Anissa while offering to help her control her powers. It’s a moment that’s undercut by the interference of the Justice League, and despite where the book leaves off I hope it’s not another “hero fights hero” situation.
If a great story wasn’t enough, we also continue to have great artwork from Ossio. The fight between Steel, Jennifer and the Masters of Disaster is a prime example; Ossio shows off a wide variety of powers, from Steel’s transforming suit to the different elemental powers (fire, lightning and ice all make an appearance.) As if that wasn’t enough, there’s not one, but two poster-worthy moments featuring Black Lightning’s powers on display – and Ulises Arreola’s colors immediately draw the reader’s eye, especially with the white/blue lightning crackling around Jefferson’s form.
Black Lightning #3 is a unique look at the idea of a heroic legacy, but also reminds readers that Jefferson Pierce will move heaven and earth for his family. If this book isn’t already on your pull list, this is the issue that’ll change that.
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