Zatanna

I’d just like to take a moment to express my opinions concerning the Zatanna ongoing series.

Remembering Zatanna from the ‘80s in the Justice League.. well.. I remember the OUTFIT. Frankly, Zatanna was a fairly two dimensional character. Primarily a knockoff of her father for a new generation of readers with the same trite gimmick of “backward spellcasting”, there really wasn’t much to a personality.

During the Identity Crisis series, Zatanna finally received the attention she deserved. An interesting history (ret-conned, of course) and given strong and detailed relationships with the big names of the DC Universe.

Why, oh WHY then.. are none of those relationships or any of that interesting and provocative history in this ongoing title?

While the issues are well-written, they feel like filler issues between bigger story arcs. Bigger story arcs that are not being told. There are brief appearances of a tiny but likable supporting cast including a recently introduced male cousin. But other then a two issue appearance of Brother Night, the other 10 issues have been filled with unknown antagonists who will never be seen again. Most recently a rappin’ gangsta with a fairy chained to a sword that rewinds time and a murdering puppeteer. None of the stories told here relate to any of the current events in DC continuity such as the recently completed Brightest Day series, of which she didn’t even appear.

The stories told herein aren’t BIG enough for Zatanna. It’s a waste to create (or re-invent) a character and insert her into some of the biggest stories of the last 7 years and then completely ignore it. Another issue of fighting the magically imbued clothing of long-gone sorcerers just doesn’t cut it.

The reason I continue to purchase this series is that Zatanna is written perfectly. Her inner voice and dialogue with the villains and bit players comes through as genuine and thoughtful. The character drawing is done well, as are the backgrounds. Inking is rich and striking without becoming gaudy. It has all the components of a great series. All that is missing is the BIG stories that show Zatanna’s place in the DC pantheon.

Hope this helps!