10 “Black Adam: The Dark Age” (2007-2008)
Black Adam takes extreme measures in his attempts to resurrect his wife, Isis, while the Justice League, Justice Society of America and other agencies seek to take him down.
Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Penciler: Doug Mahnke
Inkers: Christian Alamy, Norm Raymond, Rodney Ramos
Colorist: Nathan Eyring
Letterers: Nick J. Napolitano, Rob Leigh
A tale of gods, superheroes, wizardry and revenge, “Black Adam: The Dark Ages” is at its best unmired by the likes of the JLA, JSA, and countless black ops hit squads in favor of the story of man driven by love to undertake a seemingly impossible quest. It’s an epic tragedy that culminates in an unfinished and unsatisfying ending.
11 “The Dark Phoenix Saga” (1980)
Gathered together by Professor Charles Xavier to protect a world that fears and hates them, the X-Men had fought many battles, been on adventures that spanned galaxies, grappled enemies of limitless might, but none of this could prepare them for the most shocking struggle they would ever face. One of their own members, Jean Grey, has gained power beyond all comprehension, and that power has corrupted her absolutely! Now they must decide if the life of the woman they cherish is worth the existence of the entire universe!
Writer: Chris Claremont/John Byrne co-plotter
Penciler: John Byrne
Inker: Terry austin
Letterer: Tom Orzechowski
Colorisst: Bob Sharen, Glynis Wein
This tragic tale lands with the same emotional impact as it did some 45 years ago when I first read it, weathering the test of time in its powerful account of Jean Gray’s descent into darkness, and the desperate but ultimately doomed attempts of her friends to prevent the inevitable. So many memorable moments, from Wolverine’s solo sewer reveal in the bowels of New York’s Hellfire Club to Dark Phoenix’s fiery mid-flight manifestation aboard the Blackbird to Jean’s shocking self-sacrifice. Top-notch storytelling.
12 “Mad Love” (1994)
Harley Quinn seeks prove her love to the Joker by attempting to eliminate the Dark Knight on her own!
Writer: Paul Dini
Artist: Bruce W. Timm
Colorists: Bruce W. Timm, Rick Taylor
Letterer: Tim Harkins
Its cartoon visual stylings belie a surprisingly dark story about love, obsession, and the cycles of abuse that typify far too many relationships A well-crafted story that explores Harley Quinn’s aspirations and impulses, revealing her as much a victim as she is a villain.
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