DC Comics reviews 12/4/24 – Absolute Superman #2, JSA #2

Absolute Superman #2

Absolute Superman #2 is another strong entry in DC’s surging Absolute line of titles. Last issue featured the surprising sight of Lois Lane on the field, not as a star reporter, but as a soldier of The Lazarus Corps looking to bring Superman in. Superman isn’t sure what to make of her, but doesn’t want his advance suit’s AI, Sol, to do anything to harm her. Absolute Superman #2 features some intriguing reveals, but arguably none more shocking than his suit has a cape-like device made out of some form of dust. This allows the cape to expand or retract as needed.

That’s a clever redesign choice from writer Jason Aaron, which allows artist Rafa Sandoval to go as dramatic as he wants with the cape’s flow in various scenarios. While handcuffed together, Lois gets an up close and personal take on Superman as he tries to keep her and the other onlookers.

Aaron has set up some vastly different takes on the Superman mythos, but there are some core elements that remain intact that keep the story familiar enough to quickly get invested. The references to Brainiac, a completely fresh take on Krypton’s dying days and the appearance of Krypto already suggest that Aaron has a solid master plan in terms of how his version will play out. Absolute Superman #2 offers some valuable insight on that front.

Sandoval’s art is equally impressive with bold, majestic imagery befitting a Superman title. The squad of Peacemakers legitimately looks intimidating and not just some bogus grunts for Superman to easily defeat. Sandoval’s take on Superman is further refined in Absolute Superman #2. He looks less like a slacker Superman and more of the iconic hero with some slight cosmetic changes. Colorist Ulises Arreola and letterer Becca Carey do a fine job enhancing the visuals.

Absolute Superman #2 had some great teases and some exciting possibilities for this title. The creative team seems intent on crafting new memories for Superman fans and this alternate take — at least so far — is delivering up up and above my expectations.

Rating: 10 out of 10

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