REVIEW: Superman & Robin Special #1
uperman & Robin Special #1 is a celebration of growth, maturity and above all else – friendship. A friendship between two young men who are well on their way to becoming the people they are supposed to be.
Superman & Robin Special #1 features the reunion we have all been waiting for as Jonathan Kent and Damien Wayne take flight once again.
The main cover created by interior artist Viktor Bogdanovic depicts the reunited Super Sons doing their thing within the gaping maw of a giant beast. I love how imposing Jonathan looks in this scene. Viktor Bogdanovic’s use of shading really emphasises the intensity radiating from Jonathan’s every pore. Damian’s cheeky grin adds a familiar contrast between the pair even if the roles are reversed.
The first variant cover sees Super Sons alumni Jorge Jimenez return to the characters he contributed so much of himself to over the years. It’s a real treat to see Jorge Jimenez draw a more grown-up version of the duo in contrast to his work on the series that started it all when the pair were so much younger. I love the Supersons new look costumes come together like this. You can really sense the pairs ultimate destiny coming into view.
The final cover by Rafa Sarmento sees the duo confronted by a huge spotlight. This instantly reminded me of the famous cover adorning Batman #9 from 1942 which has been replicated time and time again. I love how much bigger Jonathan is compared to Damian on this cover. This is a stark reminder of just how much time their friendship has lost, this is a tragedy that can’t be quantified.
Superman & Robin Special #1 plays out like a good ol’ fashion get together between old friends as the pair look to take on a threat from within the very walls of the Fortress of Solitude. This is the perfect issue for fans of Jonathan Kent and Damian Wayne specifically during their time as the Super Sons, this is very much a love letter to that period in time that generated such a huge following.
The issue begins with a perfect exchange between Jonathan and Lois over breakfast as writer Peter J Tomasi explores Jonathan’s ageing while away in space, as well as Lois coming to terms with the situation itself. I really appreciated and enjoyed this heartfelt moment between mother and son, the honesty and emotion on display really emphasised the importance of what had been stolen.
The mood however is quickly lifted as Damian Wayne enters the scene, the pair pick up exactly where they left off as the boys answer the call once again. This is the true blessing of youth as nothing gets in the way of true friendship for long, even after the numerous trials that have befallen the boys specifically Damian who is still mourning the loss of Alfred. It’s like no time has passed at all and this instantly brought a tear to my eye.
Jonathan and Damian’s exchanges in this issue are a real treat for long-term readers and completists as the pair dive into Damian’s current activities featured in his solo book, alongside a pivotal storyline shared by the boys from their past that will inform and surely effect their current adventure. This is the kind of fan service I love as I feel like my loyalty has truly been rewarded. This won’t however confuse unfamiliar readers as the creative team does a wonderful job of knitting together a tightly woven story.
Superman & Robin Special #1 is a celebration of growth, maturity and above all else – friendship. A friendship between two young men who are well on their way to becoming the people they are supposed to be. This is on display for all to see during the finale as understanding and compassion wins the day. That’s not to say there isn’t plenty of action to go around, Superman and Robin certainly get their fill.
This issue is a love letter to not only the Super Sons but to the individual heroes themselves. This is a lighthearted, feel good story that gives our heroes a much needed victory without the heartbreak. Peter J Tomasi has done a wonderful job of honouring the pairs history by touching on multiple facets and adventures that have shaped them into who they are today.
Artist Viktor Bogdanovic has quickly become one of my favourite artists to date, I was thrilled to see his talents adorn this issue. The artists facial expressions are a high point for me as every characters emotions in that moment are conveyed perfectly. Action sequences are breathtaking especially when the boys get a helping hand from some of Bruce and Clark’s toys, this really was the icing on the cake for me.
Daniel Henriques, Scott Hanna, Matt Santorelli, Ivan Plascencia and Matt Herms talents all contributed to a wonderful issue that flowed beautifully, whilst honouring who our heroes were while taking a glimpse into who they will become.
Haven’t picked up Superman & Robin Special #1 yet? You can get the standard cover by Viktor Bogdanovic here (UK) or here (US).
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