DC Comics reviews 9/24/25 – Absolute Wonder Woman 12, JLU 11

Superman 30

After being betrayed by Superboy-Prime last issue, Superman desperately tries to appeal to the Dark Legion’s Saturn Girl to fight through the control Darkseid has on her. Writer Joshua Williamson and artist Dan Mora reveal that Dark Saturn Girl saw a vision of the Absolute Superman, which isn’t exactly encouraging news, and that led her to team with Dark Cosmic Boy and discover all of the others who were also hearing Darkseid’s message.

Not content to take Superman out, the Dark Legion dispatches one member to take out Lex Luthor, who has opted for the peace and meditation route. This doesn’t end well for one of them and potentially the rest of the world.

Williamson proceeded with caution with Superboy-Prime, a character who started off great and then gradually became a tired one-note gag before ultimately getting some form of redemption. Pulling at that thread was dangerous, but in the hands of a writer as capable as Williamson it was a risk worth taking. That decision pays off tremendously here.

Mora’s artwork never disappoints. He brings such a vibrant energy to his pages. It was apparent with his first work at DC and he hasn’t faltered delivering astonishing art in both Superman and Justice League Unlimited. Of course, with this tease now, it would be fitting for Williamson to craft a legit Legion of Superheroes run so Mora can play around in the 30th Century for a few issues. The designs of the Dark Legion with Darkseid’s familiar crackly skin pattern reflected on their costumes as plated armor was a cool touch.

Alejandro Sánchez’s colors are critical in an issue with so many familiar looking costumes, playing off the scant bits of light in this darkened environment and the sharp contrast with Luthor’s retreat residence. Ariana Maher’s lettering is nicely arranged with plenty of intense dialogue and sound effect fonts.

Superman 30 leads into The Justice League Omega Special, which sets up DC K.O. #1. That’s a little frustrating since the story that’s played out in Superman doesn’t actually get a resolution in his title. Regardless, this was another strong installment of this Superman vs. The Dark Legion arc.

Rating: 9 out of 10

Photo Credit: DC Comics