Twenty-six years ago, a comic book writer ignited a firestorm, becoming a superstar with a superhero team that the DC Universe (DCU) may not be ready for even now. The DCU is experiencing a resurgence, with projects like Creature Commandos, the Superman film, and Peacemaker Season Two garnering acclaim. This renewed interest has fans buzzing, especially with the upcoming Authority project, perpetually delayed but still generating excitement among older comic book enthusiasts. But who are they, and why does their arrival spark such anticipation?
Well, The Authority initially emerged as a spin-off from Stormwatch, masterminded by Warren Ellis and Bryan Hitch. It was a blend of the Justice League with a modern, proactive superhero sensibility. Ellis and Hitch's 12-issue run was remarkable, but they departed in 2000, leaving the series in the hands of one of comics' most controversial figures: Mark Millar. Millar's tenure on The Authority catapulted him to the forefront of the industry, shaping his legacy and sparking ongoing debates about his work.
Millar's Time on The Authority: A Seismic Shift in Comics
The Authority, a team featuring Apollo and Midnighter (a gay Superman/Batman parody), the Doctor (a drug-using, reality-warping shaman), the Engineer (a woman with shape-shifting nanotech skin), Jack Hawksmoor (who commands cities), Swift (a more violent version of Hawkgirl), and Jenny Sparks, the spirit of the 20th century, operated from a universe-traveling ship called the Carrier. They took a zero-tolerance approach to injustice. Jenny's demise on January 1st, 2000, while fighting a world-destroying entity, paved the way for Millar's takeover.
Millar seamlessly integrated into the team's ethos, building upon Ellis's groundbreaking storytelling. He took the concept further, drawing inspiration from Grant Morrison, a legendary DC Comics writer. Millar captured the team's irreverent, violent nature, depicting them as individuals striving to do good, even if it meant drinking, smoking, using drugs, and engaging in superpowered orgies. At any other time, these characters would have been the villains.
His debut story, with artist Frank Quitely, was a unique spectacle. The Authority faced off against a military-backed superpowered industrial complex, resulting in bloody battles. They hunted down Jacob Krigstein, a Jack Kirby homage character who created superhumans for the government. It was everything fans craved in 2000: edgy, hilarious, and inventive. Millar penned two more story arcs, pitting the team against an older Doctor and the government in a violent superhero saga that culminated in the first gay marriage in mainstream comics.
Millar's Legacy: Innovation or Repetition?
Millar has penned many beloved comics, and all owe a debt to The Authority. His run was groundbreaking, yet long-time readers observe a consistent pattern in his work. Millar's characters are often offensive, irreverent, and prone to excessive violence. His work on The Ultimates, with Authority co-creator Bryan Hitch, echoed many of the ideas he'd pioneered. While his work has merit, it often rehashes old concepts, making them more 'mature.' In 2000, this approach was revolutionary, but it became a recurring theme, leading some fans to lose interest.
Much Like Millar, The Authority Is a Relic of Another Time
The Authority was a major success in 1999, thanks to Ellis and Hitch. They combined Morrison's widescreen action from JLA with a modern superhero aesthetic, resulting in something special. Millar seemed like the right choice to continue the story, and his impact is undeniable. However, the team has been a tough sell since Millar's departure, a challenge DC Studios is now facing.
While not his most popular comic, it's arguable that Millar peaked creatively with The Authority. Everything he's done since has felt like a rehash of its core themes: violent, outspoken heroes willing to challenge the system. It will be fascinating to see if DC Studios can recapture the magic Millar brought to the team a quarter-century ago, modernizing them for a new generation of superhero fans.
What are your thoughts on The Authority? Do you think they're still relevant, or are they a product of their time? Share your opinions in the comments below!
