Jedi JC Daquis's Reviews > Identity Crisis

Instead of going grand like its other Crisis siblings, Identity Crisis goes deep. And it hurts.

Elongated Man's wife is murdered and someone has to pay for it. As the superheroes find out the person responsible, filthy secrets about our beloved characters are laid bare. Brad Meltzer has effectively humanized many DC heroes and villains, putting them in a situation where their superpowers are close to being useless and playing with their emotions as if you were reading a novelized drama anthology.

Dirty things happen and are uncovered in Identity Crisis. For one, there is rape. I personally don't like a rape scene in any story. The rapture of female divinity is almost always present in these so-called "mature" stories mainly for its shock value. If not for its great and immersive story, I'd give Identity Crisis a one-star. Then there are other things like morally questionable decisions, deaths and other devastating repercussions, it's a Crisis event in the first place.

Speaking of an immersive story, this one is page-turner. This collected edition is filled with mystery, red herrings and plot twists. The little details in the dialogue and facial expressions give the characters a sort of dark vibrancy. There are some chapters that shine above the rest like the issue about fathers.


I agree with you, Rags Morales. This is my personal best emotional panel in Identity Crisis.

Rags Morales' facial artwork and close-up panels do the trick in emphasizing emotional distress. This close-up technique is even present in fight scenes and I love the claustrophobic feel it gives. The Deathstroke vs. all gruesome fight scene deserves a standing ovation.


Thank you, Deathstroke for this insanely delicious one-versus-JSA fight.

Identity Crisis is a must-read for DC fans. Be prepared though for there are things you cannot unread. The end may be a bit corny and shallow but overall it is great in a grim way.