REVIEW: World Of Krypton #2

World of Krypton #2 picks up 2 years after the events of the inaugural issue as the citzens of Krypton anticipate the Trial of Kru-El. This story thread runs simultaneously alongside the House of El’s attempts to rescue Krypton from its potential demise as well as the ascension of General Zod.

The main cover created by Mico Suayan and Anette Kwok sees an imperious General Zod take centre stage as Krypton is ripped asunder. This cover ties in majestically to the story as Dru-Zod begins his ascention into a position of power. Jor-El does feel somewhat out of place on this cover however his facial expression speaks to the horror his people are about to face. I love the realistic look of this piece, the pairs clothing looks just so textured. From the seams in Jor-El’s sleeves to the wrinkles that form Zod’s sash, the attention to detail is staggering. 

The variant cover created by Darick Robertson and Diego Rodriguez sees Kru-El bound and brought to justice as the Kryptonian skyline frames the scene perfectly, almost as if Kru-El has been paraded through the streets himself. The glow of Krypton’s red sun engulfs the sky as we are reminded just how powerless even a Kryptonian can be.  

Straight off the bat, I really appreciate the 2 year gap between this issue and the events chronicled in the last. This really adds a sense of foreboding as Krypton’s march towards demise is slow and will test the hearts and minds of Krypton’s finest. This is represented best as Dru-Zod, hero of Krypton continues to ascend the ladder and is appointed Chief of Planetary Security. 

The weight of this role instantly begins to test Zod’s resolve as his methods while upholding the law begin to darken his soul. I have always found General Zod to be one of the more intriguing ‘villains’ in the DC Universe, a being who believes wholeheartedly in the survival of his own race at any cost. Knowing this, it will be facinating to see what decisions Zod will be forced to make in the issues to come.  

The House of El are equally tested as brothers Zor-El and Jor-El seek alternative means to secure their fellow citizens future. The discovery they make in this issue will have repercussions for generations to come, and I simply adore the reasoning behind the creation of such an iconic piece of lore. The way artist Michael Avon Oeming depicts this innovation is truly stunning. I’ve never seen it presented in such a creative way, yet totally harrowing all at once. 

Seeing Zor-El and Jor-El working in such harmonious fashion is a real treat for me as I usually imagine the pairs competitive nature coming between them. Seeing this united front is certainly easing me into a false sense of security which is perfect considering the precarious climate our characters are inhabiting. Zor-El’s. personality really shines through in this issue like never before, this is the first time I’ve ever felt a connection to this character which I very much appreciate.

Kru-El’s sentencing really grounds this piece in reality, however far-flung we find ourselves into the future or indeed space, justice always plays a key role in that specific infrastructure. Kru-El’s fate brings Jor-El and Zod into direct conflict which flushes out a plethora of Kryptonian ideologies including cultural status which I found fascinating to say the least. 

In a caste system that features individual guilds representing every facet of Kryptonian Society, Zod certainly behaves like a man who has experienced prejudice while amongst other guilds. Science and Artisan guilds come to mind considering the way he lashes out at Jor-El, you can certainly see the cracks appearing in their friendship by the end of this issue.

Robert Venditti has developed a group of characters who are going to be tested in everyway imaginable. I can only imagine the trials that will be placed in Zod’s way that will build him into the man we know him to be today. 

Artist Michael Avon Oeming’s style in this issue is very reminiscent of the art style that appears in Justice League: The New Frontier, it’s very classic look and tone. I love seeing Jor-El in his explorer/space suit, it very much reminds me of what Superman wears in his animated series created for him by Dr Hamilton. Every turn of the page is glorious as Nick Filardi’s colours pop off every single page. Zod has never looked better in his formal attire featuring his house crest and cape. This is without a doubt one of the best looking books on the shelves today. 

World of Krypton #2 is another phenomenal read and is quickly becoming one of my favourite issues to pick up. Robert Venditti is doing a wonderful job of prolonging this turbulent period in Krypton’s history. I fully expect another couple of time jumps that will help establish our beloved characters stance on situations as Krypton’s ultimate fate draws ever closer, and even Kara may play a role as the years march on. 

Haven’t picked up World Of Krypton #2 yet? You can get the standard cover by Mico Suayan here (UK) or here (US). Or if you prefer the variant cover by Darick Robertson, you can get that here.

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