REVIEW: Jimmy Olsen #9
Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen #9 is back for another issue of fun, frolics and quintessential Jimmy hi-jinks, and as the series goes on, I can only think about the fact that it’s going to end.
The main cover for this issue is created by interior artist Steve Lieber and is perhaps my favourite cover to date. This is a much more thoughtful piece then what we are used to as we witness Jimmy play detective while seemingly covered in blood. This of course makes total sense and is extremely clever considering the fact that Jimmy is looking to solve his own murder so to speak. Dex-Starr the former Red Lantern or so it seems looks very thoughtful indeed as he sits comfortably on Jimmy’s shoulder. This is a wonderful cover that really adds layers to the series. For all the fun and hi-jinks taking place, its important to remember an attempted murder has taken place and that’s exactly what this cover does.
The variant cover by Ben Oliver sees Jimmy getting into trouble it seems at his very own wedding! I love the fact that we don’t quite know who’s arms are being held out in the direction of a rather bewildered Jimmy. Just who exactly has Jimmy upset now? Is it the bride? Surely not the Bridesmaid? Heaven forbid its the Mother-in-law to be! Whoever it is, the ambiguity really adds to the fun and cheeky nature of the piece. Having Ben Oliver produce all of the series variant covers to date has been an absolute treat. Ben Oliver has truly embraced the quirky and often unpredictable nature of the series. This is certainly represented on every cover and I have to say, I love them all.
Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen #9 opens up with one of my new favourite segments as the adventures of the Lil’ Olsen’s take centre stage. I simply adore the very light hearted and innocent nature of this sequence. The artwork is simply stunning and takes me right back to Charles M. Schulz ‘Peanuts’ comic strip. These pages are packed full of innocence, charm and youthful exuberance.
As the issue progresses, we are treated to a plethora of colourful and extremely entertaining sequences that feature both familiar and new characters alike. From Perry and Lex to Floyd Belkin AKA Splitter and The Porcadillo. The Porcadillo really does shine in this issue as the reader witnesses the characters defining moment which turns out to be a tongue in cheek parody of Batman’s seminal moment when a Bat crashes into Wayne manor. In this instance its not a Bat but a ‘Crocs Clog’ that crashes through the glass. The clog of course is an integral piece of The Porcadillo’ attire.
The parodies don’t stop there as the audience is treated to yet another fun foray into the world of the Lil’ Olsen’s. This time Jimmy imagines a creature that is all to familiar to a certain Queen of the Monsters. Seeing our beloved characters inspired by other pop culture icons is a real treat and really goes a long way to ground our characters and make them feel all the more realistic.
The issue comes to a close with a bang as Jimmy gains information from the most unlikely of sources regarding his apparent murder. This sequence single-handedly refocused an issue that was slightly drifting off course up until this point. As I pointed out just a moment ago, Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen #9 at times felt like it was coasting and heading in no particular direction, however thanks to Matt Fraction’s expert craftsmanship we got exactly where we needed to be and at just the right time.
Matt Fraction’s writing really is on another level as the writer has been crafting and cultivating a story that is being told over the course of a long period of time, especially when you consider the residents of New Oberstad. The artwork in this issue just like its predecessors is full of whimsy and charm. Every page is a cacophony of colour and that undeniable energy this world class creative team brings with every issue. I really can’t wait to see where this series goes, but as I mentioned before, I will be very sad to see this series go.
Haven’t picked up your issue of Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen #9 yet? You can pick up the standard cover by Steve Lieber here (UK), or here (US). Or if you prefer the variant cover by Ben Oliver, you can pick up the issue here.
