What are your thoughts on JM Dematteis's Dr. Fate?

[Timothy Hunter]

I read the first 24 or so issues of the late eighties Dr. FATE series quite some time ago. and I have had fond memories of it However, I reread it recently, and trying to divorce myself from purely nostalgic rationale, I can't help but think this run was a bit of a mess. There were too many supportingcharacters, so much so that the book never had the space to focus on Eric and Linda, and the attempt at humor ignited a homicidal rage inside me.

What did you think of the 80s Dr. Fate series?

[Timothy Hunter]

Also of note, before the series was cancelled, J.M. Dematteis was replaced on the book with William Messner Loebs. I read the first few issues, and quite frankly I was not impressed. Should I read further?

[Ishmael]

I didn't like it. I was a huge Dr Fate fan ... he was always my favourite JSA character ... but that series really didn't do it for me. Read a couple issues and stopped. Never felt the desire to go back and give it a second look.

[SJNeal]

I haven't re-read it in years, but I still have fond memories. I agree that there was a large supporting cast, but I don't recall it being a detriment to Eric & Linda. I do remember it took me a while to really get into the first time around; maybe if you give it a re-read down the road you'll find more to appreciate.

As far as Messner-Loebs run goes, I remember liking it right away. It wasn't groundbreaking by any means, but it was a nice change of pace from what came before. There's not much from Loebs that I don't like, however. He's an underrated favorite for sure!

[Bored at 3:00AM]

I'm slowly working my way through the DeMatties/Sook/Breyfogle Spectre run and it seems to be hitting a lot of the same beats. DeMatties is definitely obsessed with New Agey spirituality that comes out any time he's on cosmic-level characters.

[Timothy Hunter]

I didn't like it. I was a huge Dr Fate fan ... he was always my favourite JSA character ... but that series really didn't do it for me. Read a couple issues and stopped. Never felt the desire to go back and give it a second look.

I'm a Dr. Fate fan as well, I didn't think Dematteis's run captured the character's essence and appeal. If you did not like this run, what Dr. Fate stories would you recommend?