Absolute Superman #10 – Jason Aaron, Writer; Carmine Di Giandomenico, Artist; Ulises Arreola, Colorist
Ray – 10/10
Ray: This title delivers the most pure action of any of the Absolute titles so far, but it does it in a way that it’s always balanced with some incredibly profound character work. The depiction of Krypton is easily the most corrupt we’ve ever seen, but that makes Jor-El and Lara’s characterization even more dramatic – and the flashbacks are as compelling as the current-day segments. This issue opens with Jor-el trying to rescue some miners who are trapped underground after a collapse – only to come under attack from a population of Magmoles, a dangerous native species driven mad by the over-mining. He’s left with no choice but to kill the creatures if he wants to help his fellow Kryptonians survive – something that haunts him, and leads to a profound conversation with Kal. It’s wild how easily the Els on Krypton slip into the same role that the Kents played on Earth in most versions.
But on Earth, Superman has no time for reflection. He’s getting ready to move on Ra’s Al Ghul’s compound. The Demon’s head seems to have gone increasingly mad, referring to Superman as his son, and Lois has captured Jimmy but may be in league with him. As Peacekeeper Smith, now armed with a Kryptonite bullet, gets ready to finish the job he started and Brainiac stalks in the background, Superman is struck with just how easy it would be to kill someone with his powers – and calls back on his father’s wisdom to keep him on the path. Ra’s madness, Lois’ conflicted nature, and Primus’ determination to finish the threat once and for all and see Superman evolve into the kind of warrior he needs to be are all intriguing subplots – but the issue takes a huge level up in the last few pages, with a shocking betrayal and an identity reveal that I never saw coming. Just brilliant stuff.
To find reviews of all the DC issues, visit DC This Week.
GeekDad received this comic for review purposes.
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