REVIEW: Absolute Superman #2
Absolute Superman #2, “Last Dust of Krypton Part Two: Sun of Nothing” gives us more insight into this new world and what Superman’s suit, Sol, can do. This one is practically non-stop action for the first ⅔ of the story. It also becomes very clear just how small a time frame Kal has been on Earth.
The standard cover is by Rafa Sandoval and Ulises Arreola. One Kryptonian surrounded by an army of Peacemakers is a great teaser for how this issue starts. Superman may be outnumbered, but the Peacemakers will soon find out they’re out matched.
Mateus Manhanini’s variant has Superman flying at us as if he were pouncing on a target. The red hues of the setting Sun plays well with Kal’s new look and adds a hint of Krypton to the image. There’s also some unique properties to the cape that gets teased here as well.
The variant by Mahmud Asrar and Alejandro Sánchez has Superman striking a powerful pose amongst some molten rock. Having him showcased as a force stronger than nature really drives that Golden Age sensibility this Superman seems to operate under.
Other spectacular variants include works from Rafael Albequerque and Sanford Greene.
The incredible interior art is by Rafa Sandoval and Colorist Ulises Arreola. Not only are Superman’s powers in full display, but his suit’s capabilities are as well. There is so much going on visually in this book and they nail every moment. The best part, he has to do it all with one hand tied to Lois Lane. Seeing her demeanor change throughout the issue is also nothing less than brilliant.
Jason Aaron, lettered by Becca Carey, put Superman through his paces as he tries to evade capture by The Peacemaker Corps. There’s a quiet resolve to this version of Superman as his actions speak louder than his words. When he does speak, there’s a loneliness about him that’s nearly heartbreaking. Aaron has beautifully crafted a very different motivation for why Superman does what he does. He’s still imbued with a want to help from how he was raised, this time only by Jor-El and Lara, but there’s also a great deal of survivor’s guilt. Though he still feels and acts like Superman, these differences make for a compelling approach and eliminates the unrelatable aspect detractors of the character often claim.
(9/10) The visual storytelling in Absolute Superman #2 is incredible. What this Superman can do and what he’s about is shown to us instead of overly explained to us. This allows the written elements to focus more on dialogue and character interactions. It’s simply well crafted and I can’t wait to experience it more.
