Will comic fans be electrified by the new interpretation of a classic character? The new look of Shazam designed by Gary Frank premiered in the New York Post. The DC Comics New 52 version of the icon will debut in Justice League #7 in a new back-up story according to The Source.
With SHAZAM! Gary and I will be focusing on the magic hero instead of the super hero,” Johns said. “For centuries, science has ruled the world, but now magic is returning. We’re telling the story of the hero’s young alter ego, Billy Batson, a foster kid at a crossroads in his life. The question is, how does the emotional journey of this troubled teenager collide with the fate of the world? The Rock of Eternity and the legacy of SHAZAM! will be explored in a different way as the extent of Billy’s connection to the magic world around him is greater than ever before. The story will have a profound impact on Justice League later in the year and you’ll see new characters, locations and creatures along with the classics from the SHAZAM! universe. Billy’s friends and enemies will be along for the ride.”
“You’ll notice that SHAZAM! looks different from many of the other heroes we’ve seen in DC COMICS-THE NEW 52,” said editor Brian Cunningham. “That was definitely intentional. His powers come from a different place, and we wanted to see that reflected in the design. We’ve removed the “circus strongman” elements from his costume. Rather than a traditional cape, he wears a cloak with a hood; there’s more of a mystical, magical, fantasy feel to that.”
What do you think of the hooded hero and his new name?
I remember enjoying the Captain Marvel half hour live action series on Saturday mornings.