REVIEW: Action Comics #1047

Action Comics #1047 is finally here and kick starts a new story arc which includes the return of Kal-El. Whilst the epic Warworld saga has been an incredible read, I am really looking forward to seeing Clark, Lois and Jon reunite.

But before we get into the issue itself, let’s take a look at the covers. The standard cover is by Steve Beach and it is so nostalgic. It instantly gives off classic movie poster vibes with snapshots of each of the supporting characters. The detail is stunningly intricate and Beach’s Superman really reminds me of George Reeves here.

The first variant cover is by Lucio Parrillo and is a great action shot of the Man Of Steel. From the veins pulsing in his suit to the illuminated red eyes, you can see he is giving everything he has got here. The slight blur of the background and things falling around really adds a sense of realism and magnitude.

The second variant is by Nathan Szerdy and is a fun and quirky pin up piece of Lois and Clark. What I love about this cover is that it’s vibrant and cartoonistic, yet has hints of realism in the skin tones, materials and facial features. I’d love to see more of Szerdy’s take on these characters.

The Harley Quinn 30th anniversary variant is by Leirix and features Harley Quinn sitting on the back of Superman doing a push up. Now, I’m not entirely sure what situation this would EVER happen in, but it’s a fun concept. I love the anime style, and it suits the characters well. I also love that there are other heroes in the background using the gym equipment.

Action Comics #1047 opens up with the introduction of two characters and their relationship. The key character in this sequence is unrecognisable and it isn’t until the end of the issue that we find out who it is. This was a really great introduction that sets the scene and relationship between the two and considering who this is, this really shows another side to them. I have to say I am very intrigued to find out more about how two of Superman’s biggest enemies are going to work together.

There are some perfect Superman moments in this issue, my personal favourite features a family that he saves from a car accident, it was beautiful and I really hope to see more moments like this. This is why we love Superman and Phillip Kennedy Johnson writes great Superman moments, whether they are based on Warworld or Earth. I’ve also loved seeing how Superman’s time on Warworld has altered his life on Earth and I hope there is more to come in that sense.

This issue sets up the potential conflict for this story arc and it is reminiscent of Batman v Superman for me, which is not a bad thing at all. Superman is under interrogation for his actions on Warworld and his judgement now that it is being questioned because he is asking for a place on Earth for the refugees of Warworld. I personally love when Superman’s judgement is challenged in this way, it shows how sinical some can be, but also offers great opportunities for Superman to show them and us why he’s the greatest Superhero.

The people and history of Warworld are not only of value to Superman, but also to one of Superman’s ultimate foes and I am very intrigued to see why. Phillip Kennedy Johnson has done a great job of drip feeding us information to keep us drawn in and the results could be catastrophic here.

The interior artwork is by Riccardo Federici, with colours by Lee Loughridge and letters by Dave Sharpe. The artwork is incredible, it’s great to see such a realistic take on life on Earth. We are so used to seeing Federici bring to life the atmosphere and people of Warworld, and seeing this level of realism focused on Earth really brings these characters and locations to life. The detail is phenomenal and it is such a unique and stunning take on comic book art.

As well as the main story in Action Comics #1047, we also have a back up story titled ‘Red Moon: Part 1’. The story is written also by Phillip Kennedy Johnson, with art by David Lapham, colours by Trish Mulvihill and letters by Dave Sharpe.

This story follows the awakening of Thao-Lar (finally) and shows the reunion of the Superman family post Warworld. I love that this is being continued as a side story and I am assuming and hoping that this and the main story collide very soon. I adore Thao-Lar as a character and I can’t wait to see more of her and how she is going to fit into this dynamic and also The Superman Family. It’s safe to say she has some real similarities to Superman, not only in the powers department but mindset too.

At this point Thao-Lar, Supergirl and everyone else on Earth wasn’t aware of Superman’s accomplishments on Warworld, so when they saw that very planet coming towards them, they expected the worst. This was a reunion that I was really looking forward to, so I’m glad we got to see it played out in the pages of this comic. This is a really heartwarming moment, so what better time to introduce yet another story line and potential villain?

Action Comics #1047 is a fantastic continuation where we see the emotional affects that the mission on Warworld provoked, not only on Superman but the rest of the world. What this issue begins to set up has so much potential and I cannot wait to see how it pans out.