Something Familiar Feels Fresh Again: Reviewing ‘Jupiter Legacy: Finale’ #2

After the startling and seismic shocks of the first issue, writer Mark Millar and artist Tommy Lee Edwards do not stop for breath as they continue to startle in Jupiter Legacy: Finale #2, with the revelation that much of the life in the universe has been created for slaughter. Each planet, including Earth, that sustains life, merely exists to be harvested. It’s not the most original of ideas but never has such a plot been explained by such a foul-mouthed, chain-smoking alien. And even in the rehashing of such a core sci-fi plot device, Edwards’ composition of the page is breathtaking to read.

As for the superheroes, they exist to “take care of the livestock. Keep the meat safe from alien rustlers”. Now that’s a more original spin on a familiar plot device, and one that circles all the way back to the origins of the original heroes of Jupiter’s Legacy. And it’s these subtleties, and clever connections, that saves this revelatory issue from becoming just another disposable story of alien mastery over humanity. And one that could well be the salvation of the universe as this revelation only seems to re-invigorate them. Maybe even unite to battle this new menace?

Millar has always taken what is so familiar and branded it with his own take. This issue’s storyline is no different with more profanity, maybe, but also plenty of added spice to add new flavours to an old recipe. The results is an entertaining issue that dazzles in the art department and delivers on script too. And all ending on a rather upbeat moment too that promises optimism in the face of dire pessimism.

Jupiter Legacy: Finale #2 is out now from Dark Horse Comics