Underwhelming. Acclaimed author Alan Moore continues the “League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: Black Dossier” trend of being more interested in navel-gazing than storytelling. The navel-gazing is intriguing, and features excellent art by Kevin O’Neill, who uses an almost-lithographic style that complements the period feel.
But while Moore has some interesting plot points to work with–the stirring of an occult conspiracy and the bloody ascendancy of Captain Nemo’s daughter to her pirate throne–he seems more interested in crafting bon mots for genderbending hero Orlando and dancehall tunes to match the action.
This installment of a larger story doesn’t feel self-contained, as advertised. Moore’s impressive creativity is lessened as he returns to the well of “Jack the Ripper,” with diminishing returns.


