REVIEW: Absolue Superman #10

Absolute Superman #10, “Superman, Son of the Demon Chapter Three: The Beast in the Mine” has a jaw dropping revelation in the conflict between Lazarus Corp. and The Omega Men. It also plays with the uncertain nature of the Absolute Universe and creates a very suspenseful, edge-of-your-seat reading experience.

The standard cover is by Rafa Sandoval and Ulises Arreola. Teasing the outcome of the next encounter between Superman and Lazarus Corp., they depict Kal’s reflection off a battered Peacemaker helmet. Superman’s resolve is tested further this issue and the cover may be a bit foreshadowy.

Giuseppe Camuncoli & Romulo Fajardo Jr.’s variant has Superman looking very reminiscent to a popular anime character with whom he’s often compared. Regardless of the visual inspiration, it’s a very colorful and dynamic cover.

In contrast, the variant by Tirso is a dark and ominous depiction of Superman. The darker tone makes the reds stick out for a very striking piece.

Which leaves us with Gerald Parel’s variant. As though taken from a camera, the image appears just enough out of focus to make it seem in motion. There’s some fun play with the cape showcasing it isn’t a cloth like material. 

Carmine Di Giandomenico returns as interior artist along with Colorist Ulises Arreola. Their work is absolutely brilliant. Superman isn’t really seen until the last quarter of the issue, but his presence is felt in every panel. We also get more flashbacks with Krypton which is a real treat considering how beautifully alien this version was designed. The suspenseful nature of this issue is definitely enhanced through the emotional detail of the art making this one of the best issues of the series yet.

Jason Aaron, lettered by Tom Napolitano, showcases just how powerful Superman can be in ‘Absolute Superman #10’. Picking up from last issue, Superman assists The Omega Men’s assault against a Lazarus Corp. base in order to free the captured Jimmy Olsen. All the while, Kal is recalling a difficult rescue mission that haunted his father, Jor-El. This narrative is what builds the tension throughout the story and makes it a real nail-biter of a read. As if that wasn’t enough, we also get a shocking reveal of who Primus is which shakes up the conflicts of the entire series. In true Absolute Earth fashion, this issue makes you question everything you think you know about how this story will unfold.

(10/10) I legitimately had physical tension in my body while reading ‘Absolute Superman #10’. Jason Aaron does a spectacular job playing with the uncertainies provided by this new universe which is expertly enhanced by the art. I can’t recommend reading this one enough!