Shazam #13 (DC)

Shazam #13 (DC)

Geoff Johns (w) Dale Eaglesham (A)

Once a character that outsold Superman but beaten not by any villain but by a corporate law suit Captain Marvel eventually changed hands from his original publishers to DC Comics who had ended his adventures in the first place.

Originally a young boy given powers by the Wizard living in the Rock of Eternity Billy Batson became Captain Marvel and featured in a comic now called "Shazam" after the magic word that transformed him into a super-powered adult.  The name "Captain Marvel" was now with DC's rivals Marvel Comics.

Never high on my reading list I have purchased the odd back issue or mini series some of which have been entertaining others not so much. When done right there is potential with the good Captain. However the New 52 version was not for me so it's been a while since I've picked up a copy and to be honest the reason I did so was because the solicitation gave the impression that Superboy Prime would return in this issue.

The story itself is Chapter 12 of an on-going adventure which features an army of Captain Marvel's foes including Mr Mind, Black Adam, King Hull and more facing Captain Marvel, Mary Marvel plus a few unfamiliar faces. The ultimate enemy is Billy's father mind controlled by that alien Caterpillar that should have been trodden on a long time ago.

The villains are taking control of the seven lands (I am baffled as to how this fits into DC continuity) and it is in Monsterland that we find Superboy Prime wandering around wondering where he is. A one panel cameo that with the breaking of the panels releases the menace into the DCU once again.

I doubt I'll be picking up this comic in a hurry again but may watch out for Superboy Prime elsewhere.

Rating: One Star. (Avoid)