DC Comics reviews 6/4/25 – Absolute Superman 8, JSA 8

Absolute Superman 8

Absolute Superman 8 kicks off a new story arc in a very dramatic fashion. Ra’s Al Ghul, whose design looks more in line with takes of Vandal Savage, is fending off an assassination attempt by members of the Omega Men while talking to members of the Lazarus Corp. board. He sends one would-be killer into a Lazarus Pit that acts very differently than any other as it de-ages the assassin to a baby. What Al Ghul does next shows he is perfectly suited to be the villain not just in Absolute Superman 8, but more than a fitting alternative to Lex Luthor.

Kal-El pays a visit to Smallville to check in on Martha Kent, whose Alzheimer’s is getting worse. Absolute Superman 8 shows how the loss of the Kents could be so much worse for Superman than what transpired in other Superman runs. His trek through Smallville is interrupted by Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen. Jimmy wants to recruit Superman into the Omega Men while Lois simply wants to understand him more. Writer Jason Aaron wrote a very compelling change in their dynamic for the Absolute Universe. One in which Lois comes to appreciate Superman as a living miracle. There’s a bit more reverence here as opposed to a fascination that could lead to a romantic connection.

That will have to wait as Christopher Smith and the Peacemakers arrive — armed with Kryptonite. Unlike some other takes of its effect on him, this Kryptonite is potent enough to cause Superman some major problems, it’s not so immediately powerful that it puts him on death’s door. Instead, it prompts Sol to launch a major counter offensive that makes for a very cool upgrade.

Artist Rafa Sandoval naturally has a blast detailing all of the key action sequences in Absolute Superman 8. Aaron gives him plenty to play with and Sandoval knocks it out with some dynamic pages. Ulises Arreola’s intense coloring complements Sandoval’s art especially well with the deep scarlet and overall darker hues that fit the tone of the story. Letterer Becca Carey also delivers with creative methods of showcasing the sound effects.

Absolute Superman 8 makes for a strong jumping on point for new readers as it offers several hooks and fascinating changes in the standard Superman tale to pique their interest. For readers who’ve been on board since the start, this is a pretty exciting advancement of the story and the arc to come.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10