10 Best DC Comics #1 Of The Modern Age

3. Starman #1

All Star Superman Frank Quitely
DC Comics

Spinning out of the events of the DC cross over Zero-Hour, the first issue of the ongoing Starman series is actually #0. James Robinson and Tony Harris would introduce readers to a modern version of the character, David Knight. He was the eldest son of the Golden Age Starman Ted Knight. David had been training all his life to take up his father's mantle, he was dead by page three. Killed by the bullet of an unseen assassin, the event ended any expectations readers might have had going in.

We then meet Jack Knight, the wayward son who wants nothing to do with the family linage, before exploring his complex relationship with his father. As the issue progresses, Robinson gives us a story of cross-generational vengeance that has one foot in the past and another in the present. Robinson applies the same legacy dynamic to the villains as he did his heroes, introducing the children of The Mist before reintroducing their father!

The book, however, would not be as revered if it was not for the artwork. Tony Harris' character designs, innovative panel layouts, and action choreography are second to none, but his Art-Deco design of Opal City is the star of the show.

 
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Contributor

Kevin McHugh is a code-monkey by day and a purveyor of the unpleasant by night. Having had several comics published by Future Quake Press he is now moving into prose. An avid fan of punk rock, cheap horror movies and even cheaper fast-food Kevin can be found pontificating either on Twitter or over at WhatCulture Comics where he is a regular contributor. He lives in Edinburgh with his wife and two daughters.