REVIEW: Lazarus Planet: Assault On Krypton #1

The introduction of the Dawn of DC continues with Lazarus Planet: Assault On Krypton #1. This event already has me intrigued and I have loved getting to see some lesser known characters get some limelight.

But before we get into the issue itself, let’s take a look at the covers. The standard cover is by David Marquez and Alejandro Sanchez and showcases the characters that this issue focuses on. It’s clear the Kryptonians are in peril on this cover and the detail is great, it’s a perfect set up for the issue and I adore Marquez & Sanchez’ take on the characters, specifically Jon kent in the iconic Superman blue suit.

The first variant is by Mario ‘Fox’ Foccillo and Prasad Rao ‘Pressy’ and features two Supermen fallen against the wrath of a furious Power Girl. This is a classic comic book cover, it’s full of detail, showcases our heroes in peril and has a real classic vibrancy to it. To add salt to the wounds, it’s always painful to see The Daily Planet globe damaged, this is a cover that is sure to draw in a reader.

The second variant is by Nathan Szerdy and features Mercy Graves in a rather disjointed fashion. The robotic side of her really juxtapositions the other to create a striking and instantly recognisable cover. The realism of the the right hand side allows you to imagine what Mercy would truly look like, whilst the detail of the robotic side is just spectacular. This is a great cover.

The third variant is by Jen Bartel and features a beautiful and rather mystic Dreamer. I adore Bartel’s slight pin up artwork and it works perfectly with this character. The neon colours really create a sense of femininity and I feel this portrait image really matches not only the power set of the character, but also her personality.

The 1:25 variant is by Ariel Colon and shows our beloved Superman emblem etched into the side of a volcano which oozes green substance. When it comes to Superman and the colour green you assume there’s going to be Kryptonite involved. But this cover is just stunning, it’s certainly eye catching. The photo realism and detail involved in this cover is spectacular. It’s safe to say this cover suggests a storm is coming.

Lazarus Planet: Assault On Krypton #1 consists of four stories that focus around different characters. The first focuses around Dreamer is written by Nicole Maines (the actress who portrayed the character in the Arrowverse), with interior art by Skylar Patridge, colours by Nick Filardi and letters by Andworld’s Morgan Martinez.

It follows Nia Nal on her quest to find Doctor Fates helmet. In this story arc finding it is more imperative than ever, as the entire future depends upon it. I loved this story, it’s a great way to showcase what kind of role Dreamer is set to have in the comics going forward. Though she is a rather new character, I still find it surprising to see that she hasn’t yet met key characters like Supergirl, so this acted as a great introduction for them all.

The second story focuses on Jon Kent and is written by C.S Pacat, with interior art by Scott Godlewski, colours by Alex Guimarães and letters by Andworld Design. It follows Jon kent as he makes a rather mischievous and unexpected new friend during a shoplifting chase. The pair are struck by the effects of the eruption and whilst ones powers evolves, the other develops them for the very first time.

It was great to see Jon get a new acquaintance and though they didn’t always see eye to eye, it’s clear they had a connection. I have a feeling this isn’t the last that we will get to see of him. It’s always a pleasure having Scott Godlewski draw Jon Kent again, for me, his take on the character is the most authentic we’ve seen so far.

The third story focuses on Mercy Graves and is written by Frank Barbiere, with pencils by Sami Basri, inks by Basri & Vicente Cifuentes, colours by Hi-Fi and letters by Dave Sharpe. Well, it’s safe to say that I have never seen a take on Mercy Graves quite like this. Too often she seems underestimated, especially by Lex Luthor, but this story sheds light on the badass that she truly is.

After constantly trying to protect Luthor and the employees of LexCorp, Graves is struck by the same lightning effecting everything else during this weather event. As with everyone else, she has evolved in some way, which allows her to thrive from her new powers. I am very much looking forward to seeing how this plays out, it could have serious consequences for The House Of El.

The fourth and final story in Lazarus Planet: Assault On Krypton #1 focuses on Power Girl and is written by Leah Williams, with interior art by Marguerite Sauvage and letters by Becca Carey. It kickstarts Power Girls story arc which is set to continue in Lazarus Planet one shots and Action Comics. This story is a very psychological one and it goes a long way to explain the way that the telepathy works between her and Omen. The pair shared the same peril of a nightmare and seek out to find out why and how they are linked. The story itself didn’t give us too much, just an introduction on her personal journey during this event and also the introduction of Omen, who I’m sure is set to play an important role in the future.

The mix of artwork styles is great and used masterfully alongside the numerous writers. It really allows you to differentiate between the stories, characters, locations and their own personal missions. Each artist has their own incredibly unique art style. My personal favourite being that of Marguerite Sauvage in the Power Girl story.

Lazarus Planet: Assault On Krypton #1 really progresses this new Dawn Of DC era and it expertly continues to set up for what’s to come. If this issue is anything to go by, we have a lot to be excited for.