REVIEW: Absolute Superman #4
Absolute Superman #4, “Last Dust of Krypton: Chasing the Storm”, brings us back to Earth to focus on Lois’s pursuit of truths. We’re also introduced to an anti-Lazarus group who has a familiar face amongst their ranks. There may not be a lot of Kal-El in this issue, but it definitely gives a lot of insight on the impact he’s had on Earth in his relatively short time here.
The standard cover is by Rafa Sandoval and Ulises Arreola. It’s hard to tell if this is Superman revealing his fury, loosing control, or being attacked but either way there’s a lot of red going on. Still, there’s plenty of definition to tell this is a powerful looking piece and shows Superman not backing down from a fight.
The variant by David Talaski also plays with a red palette but in a different way. It seems the red dust that is part of his suit is barricading his flank as he faces a conflict ahead of him. This really accentuates the yellows used as well as being a cool looking effect.
Rahzzah’s variant is a familiar scene of Superman soaring high above Earth. The photo-esque quality of their work captures the larger than life nature of our hero as Earth feels dwarfed by his presence.
Keron Grant and Kaare Andrews also have great variants for this issue.
Rafa Sandoval and Colorist Ulises Arreola continue their dynamic work on Absolute Superman #4. There’s some panel work akin to ‘Heroes in Crisis’ as Lois interviews people whom Superman has been in contact. Kal-El may not be in many scenes, but the action that does take place is well done and impressive considering who’s involved. There’s a disquieting relevance to the state of the world Superman operates but at least Kal still feels like a hopeful presence. All in all, the art is simply perfect for this story.
Jason Aaron, lettered by Becca Carey, weaves a captivating story of how truths can be easily manipulated. Lois tries to dig deeper into Superman by interviewing people he’s spent time with. This leads to some interesting revelations about Sam Lane and Lois’s life choices as well as insight to the impact Superman has already had on the people of Earth. Meanwhile, a new faction is introduced in the rebellion against Lazarus, calling themselves The Omega Men. Although led by a mysterious woman, their members include a very familiar face who attempts to reach out to Lois. Tensions between the two factions prove too volatile and Superman ends up stepping between them. Obviously not part of either side he still ends up having to put some Peacemakers in their place which ends up having deadly consequences.
(9/10) I absolutely (pun slightly intended) love how this part of the story is being woven. Having the perspectives avoid Superman’s point-of-view let’s us discover who he is along with everyone else and adds to his alienation of being alone on Earth. There’s still so much we don’t know about this Absolute Superman and it’s a blast not knowing what to expect next.
