Zatanna #3 is written by Jamal Campbell and published by DC. Campbell also provides the artwork, colours and main cover (left). Letters are by Ariana Maher.
Zatanna #3 is available now, digitally and in print, where all good comic books are sold. Grab your digital copy from Amazon Comixology UK right here.
Synopsis
After following her leads into an astral dimension hidden inside a television, Zatanna is plagued with only more questions and confusion. Is she ready for thechilling answers that await her about the mysterious Adam and the Lady White? Canshe continue to endure the curse of the sword as its hold on her tightens? Or willshe simply break?
Review
The Mistress of Magic is back, and after reading issue #3 of Zatanna, it would be a justified claim to state that this series is shaping up to be one of the best DC comics in recent memory. Everything about it—from the impeccable cast of characters, juicy plot, and the wonderful art packed with detail and colour, right down to the whimsical covers—is masterfully woven together. Each component that you want and expect from a comic like this is well thought out and brilliantly brought to life, making it not only a fantastic read but a damn exceptional one.
Following on from the events in the previous issues, Zatanna finds herself in a ‘delusional reality’, which creates some interesting scenarios—specifically, we find her in the midst of a Hollywood party set in a noir world devoid of colour. What makes this so exciting is that she comes face to face with some Gotham icons. The entire scene is so well executed, as it does a great job of nodding to the wider world outside this contained story (Batman, the Rogues Gallery, etc.), while also making these nods fit seamlessly within the current narrative. It’s not going out of its way as an act of fan service; it actually finds a way to make it work, and it’s wonderfully organic (and a credit to the writers).
One of the highlights of the series is how relatable Zatanna comes across as a character. Sure, she’s sassy and witty, but we get to peek behind the curtain and see more of her true self, which is complex and layered. In issue #3, we see her grappling with the reality (pun intended) and consequences of her actions following issues #1 and #2, which resulted in the death of her apprentice, Adam. Plus, a great layer is added to Zatanna’s story with the plot device of the magical sword and creepy visions that are hindering the full use of her powers. Naturally, a character as powerful as Zatanna could go awol at the drop of a hat, so this plot device introduces a restraint that makes her relatable. It grounds her in a way that makes her flawed and gritty, and it makes us fall in love with her and root for her even more.
Verdict
To conclude, Zatanna #3 is yet another spellbinding issue that enchants with every turn of the page. The creative team behind this series has concocted a magical potion that blends everything we adore about comics–action, consequences, lore, stakes, compelling characters, beautiful visuals–and it’s utterly captivating. If the series maintains this level to the finish line, then we are truly witnessing something magical unfold before our very eyes. This is an unmissable (and magical) read for any DC fan—prepare to be spellbound!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
