REVIEW: Absolute Superman #8
Absolute Superman #8, “Superman, Son of the Demon; Chapter One: Lazarus Come Forth” takes the story beyond the feeling of an Elseworlds tale and into something that seems uniquely its own. The tension throughout this book is palpable, even in the small moments, as we finally see the mastermind behind Lazarus Corp and what that means for all of Absolute Earth.
The standard cover is by Rafa Sandoval and Ulises Arreola. A battle has broken out in Smallville and it looks like our protagonists are making a final stand in a local bookstore. There’s a real sense of being backed into a corner in this piece and it teases well with the story inside.
Clayton Crain’s variant is positively stunning. With the backdrop of space he highlights the reds and yellows of Superman’s suit for an image that really pops. It’s fun to see artists play with the concept of the over exaggerated cape and have it make sense to the character.
In contrast, the variant by Brandon Peterson is a solo image of Superman against a picturesque cloudy sky. The color scheme conveys a feeling of majesty instead of the more broody nature of Crain’s depiction. It’s fascinating how a simple backdrop change can completely change the tone of a similar image.
Jeff Spokes’s variant is an oddly serene piece as Superman dismantles a tank. Kal almost appears to be in deep contemplation in spite of being in the middle of a battle. It’s such a great way to show the immense power possessed by Superman.
Rafa Sandoval and Colorist Ulises Arreola return as the interior art team. Their work on this series has been spectacular and this issue is no exception. There is a lot going on and they expertly keep the pace and tensions high no matter the scene. The main setting also tells a heartbreaking tale as most of Smallville feels like a ghost town now that Lazarus Corp has settled in. The action scenes feel epic and we’re treated to more of Sol’s capabilities as well. This new arc definitely starts on more somber and moody themes and Sandoval & Arreola capture it all perfectly.
Jason Aaron, lettered by Becca Carey, barely gives us a chance to breathe in ‘Absolute Superman #8’. We get our first real taste of this version of Ra’s al Ghul, confirmation The Daily Planet exists, and Agent Smith completes his origin story to become the Absolute Peacemaker. Lois and Jimmy’s stories remain compelling which adds a wider scope to the overall world dynamic. Kal’s journey continues to feel like he’s a fugitive and the emotional impact of that kind of isolation really shows through Aaron’s writing. This opener nearly breaks Superman’s resolve and ends with a fascinating cliffhanger.
(8/10) This version of Ra’s al Ghul in Absolute Superman #8 felt more similar to Vandal Savage which will definitely take a bit of getting used too. That being said, this was an explosive start to a new arc and I can’t wait to see how it plays out. With plenty of “firsts” gracing these pages, you won’t want to miss out on this book.
