Cursed swords, failing magic, and death creeping in—Zatanna’s having a rough time Jamal Campbell’s Zatanna #2. Can the Mistress of Magic turn things around? Let’s find out!
We open in an unknown place. Zatanna crashes into a lighthouse. The astral sword from issue #1 still lodged in her chest. We then jump to the Oblivion Bar. Detective Chimp (Bobo) and Blue Devil are having a slow night. They complain about the lack of customers. Xanadu jokingly offers to bring her holistic study group, but they don’t drink, which Bobo finds incredibly disappointing. Zatanna bursts through the door, looking rough. She tells them about Lady White and Adam’s betrayal and tries to pull the sword out. But instead of the sword coming loose, she’s bombarded with visions of the dead. Meanwhile, Lady White and a subdued Adam are at a demon nightclub, The Crimson Palace, where a powerful old enemy of Zatanna makes himself known. The issue ends in a bombastic action scene and Zatanna encountering a surprising ally. Is he the real deal or another magic trick?
Credits: DC Comics
Zatanna #2 continues to showcase Jamal Campbell’s vibrant creativity with absolutely stunning artwork. Zatanna and Blue Devil carving through Adam’s tendril-infested apartment? A visual feast. It’s a lively, chaotic explosion of energy, beautifully captured by Campbell. Also, the Crimson Palace Nightclub looks like the perfect demonic hangout. Campbell infuses it with a palpable energy, drenching everything in striking reds that make characters like Lady White and a giant blue demon stand out.
Zatanna’s “CRASH” entrance—soaking wet, coughing, and frantic—is a brilliant panel, a testament to Campbell’s art and Ariana Maher’s lettering. Maher’s clear, flowing letters, punctuated by impactful sound effects like the “KRAK-KRRSSHHHH” lightning, powerfully convey the escalating pain of Zatanna’s ordeal.
While I wasn’t familiar with Blue Devil or his long-standing friendship with Zatanna, the scene was beautifully rendered by Campbell and undeniably intriguing. However, an editor’s note explaining their history would have been appreciated. Despite my lack of prior knowledge, the scene was genuinely touching. It showcased a deep, enduring friendship, highlighting the understanding that comes with years of knowing someone—knowing when a stubborn friend needs a helping hand. It’s a lovely reminder that friendship manifests in many unexpected and beautiful forms.
Credits: DC Comics
That said, the narrative gets muddled in issue #2. Zatanna’s behavior feels completely off, pushing away help for reasons I can’t grasp. And the Adam subplot? It’s just not grabbing me; he hasn’t done enough to make me invested. Plus, it appears Lady White isn’t the main antagonist, which is disappointing. She was far more interesting.
Zatanna #2 delivers stunning visuals and dynamic action sequences, particularly in depicting magical chaos and demonic bars, though the narrative suffers from a muddled plot and Zatanna’s uncharacteristically erratic behavior. The issue’s artistic strengths, especially Jamal Campbell’s vibrant artwork and Ariana Maher’s impactful lettering, elevate the reading experience despite the narrative’s shortcomings.
‘Zatanna’ #2 Review: Cursed Swords and Justice League Dark Cameos
Zatanna #2 delivers stunning visuals and dynamic action sequences, particularly in depicting magical chaos and demonic bars, though the narrative suffers from a muddled plot and Zatanna’s uncharacteristically erratic behavior. The issue’s artistic strengths, especially Jamal Campbell’s vibrant artwork and Ariana Maher’s impactful lettering, elevate the reading experience despite the narrative’s shortcomings.
