DC Comics reviews 1/24/23 – The Human Target #11, Justice Society of America #2
Action Comics #1051
It’s a new day in Metropolis and a new jumping on point for readers. Superman has gathered the entirety of his Super Family to Metropolis to usher in the next technological revolution.
Philip Kennedy Johnson has done astonishing work during his tenure on Action Comics with a masterful handling of the Warworld arc. I’m not sure a Superman title needs seven Superman-level powered characters and a pair of Steels. It seems that only serves to undermine the uniqueness of Superman instead of having a team like The Authority with a diverse set of skills and powers.
On the plus side, the expanded cast allows Johnson the opportunity to further establish a bond between the Superman family. These intimate personal moments are a specialty of Johnson’s and will likely be a highlight of this run. Course with the title being what it is, the main story doesn’t just focus on games and a peek into Clark and Lois’ bedtime fun (it’s a great gag) but paying off the Metallo subplot that’s been brewing.
Metallo looks to be an even bigger, more formidable threat than before so maybe Superman will need all the help he can get? Rafa Sandoval handles the art providing a stable hand with a knack for bringing out the personality in his characters and smooth action sequences. Matt Herns provides nice and bold colors as well.
Beyond the main story, there’s a pair of secondary stories. Dan Jurgens and Lee Weeks explore the pre-Rebirth period where Superman is in his black recovery suit and another Power Girl/Omen feature from writer Leah Williams and artist Marguerite Sauvage where they help Nightwing restore Beast Boy’s shattered psyche. Both are enjoyable supporting stories that go a long way to adding extra value to this supersized issue.
As the start of a brand new era for Action Comics, this issue lived up to the billing. Still, the biggest challenge for Johnson will be balancing an entire Super Family in one title.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10