Power Company #1–18 + Extras (2002–2003) – A Comprehensive Overview
📚 Genre
Superhero 🦸♂️ | Action | Drama | Corporate Fiction
Power Company mixes traditional superhero storytelling with a modern corporate spin. The series blends team-based action with commentary on capitalism, ethics, and the cost of heroism.
🌟 Main Characters
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Josiah Power – A former lawyer turned metahuman, founder of the Power Company. Calm, commanding, and a symbol of second chances.
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Manhunter (Kirk DePaul) – A clone of Paul Kirk, this morally gray vigilante provides an edge to the team.
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Skyrocket (Celia Forrestal) – A military-trained hero using high-tech flight gear, representing courage and discipline.
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Sapphire (Candace Jean Gennaro) – A young woman imbued with alien gem powers, dealing with cosmic responsibility.
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Bork (Carl Andrew Bork) – A reformed villain with super strength and a gentle soul.
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Witchfire (Rebecca Carstairs) – A pop singer with mystical powers and a dark secret.
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Striker Z (Daniel Tsang) – A speedster and tech whiz with connections to Asian underworld figures.
✍️ Writer
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Kurt Busiek – Known for Astro City and Marvels, Busiek brings grounded storytelling, layered characters, and social commentary to this title.
🎨 Artist
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Tom Grummett – A veteran DC artist, Grummett delivers clean, dynamic visuals and expressive character work that enhances the dramatic tone.
🖋️ Editor Details
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Eddie Berganza – DC editor overseeing the series during its publication, ensuring consistency with the DC Universe while allowing Busiek creative freedom.
🏢 Publisher and Brand
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Publisher: DC Comics
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Brand: Standard DC Universe continuity (Pre-New 52 era)
📅 Release Year
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2002 to 2003
🧩 Brief Plot Summary
Power Company introduces a new kind of superhero team—one that operates as a corporate firm. Led by Josiah Power, the team is hired to solve superhuman-level crises for clients ranging from governments to private companies. Unlike traditional heroic teams driven by altruism or duty, Power Company operates under contracts, fees, and legal frameworks, adding a compelling twist to the superhero formula.
Throughout the 18-issue run (plus several one-shot origin stories), the team confronts not just villains and disasters but also their own pasts, ethical boundaries, and internal conflicts. The extras delve into each member’s backstory, shedding light on their motivations and struggles.
🔥 Notable Arcs or Storylines
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“The Origin Issues” (Power Surge one-shots) – Individual origin issues that flesh out each character’s past, motivations, and how they joined the team.
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“Hero for Hire” Arc – The team is hired to manage a volatile situation, raising questions about morality vs. money in heroism.
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Manhunter's Legacy – Explores the shadowy legacy of the Manhunter program and how Kirk DePaul fits into it.
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Skyrocket's Rise – Celia’s journey from rookie to a respected team leader showcases personal growth and responsibility.
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Corporate vs. Heroic Identity Conflicts – Many storylines revolve around the team’s struggles to balance business obligations with their moral compass.
🧠 Fan Theories or Interpretations
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"The Precursor to Heroes for Hire" – Some fans view Power Company as DC’s answer to Marvel’s Heroes for Hire, but with a more nuanced take on legality and structure.
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"A Commentary on Capitalist Heroism" – The book is often interpreted as a satire or critique of how modern society commodifies everything—even heroism.
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"Skyrocket as a Standout Successor" – Fans have speculated that Skyrocket was being groomed to take a major leadership role in the wider DCU, due to her strong arc and popularity.
🎨 Review Summary
Power Company is an underrated gem that offers a fresh perspective on the superhero genre. Kurt Busiek’s writing is thoughtful, character-driven, and sharp in its social observations. Each team member is uniquely developed, giving readers a reason to care about their journeys. Tom Grummett’s art complements the narrative with classic superhero aesthetics enhanced by emotional depth.
While some arcs lean heavily into procedural storytelling, the emotional resonance and philosophical questions make it worthwhile. The series stands out for its originality, offering something both familiar and refreshingly different in the DC Universe. 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ (4/5)
Whether you're a Busiek fan, a DC completist, or someone looking for a grounded superhero drama, Power Company is well worth rediscovering. 💼🦸♀️⚡
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