REVIEW: Absolute Superman #12

Absolute Superman #12: “The Battle of Kansas, Part One: Sol” is an emotional, propulsive chapter that pauses the chaos just long enough to deepen the bond between Kal-El and his sentient cape, Sol. Writer Jason Aaron continues to make the Absolute Universe feel bold and new while echoing the virtues that define classic Superman—and I find myself wishing this book shipped at least twice monthly.

Ra’s al Ghul looms like a puppet master behind Superman, in the standard cover by Sandovol and Arreola, his presence is a chilling reminder of immortal cunning and determined domination. Superman stands defiant, his suit’s crimson energy crackling across his body. It’s a cover that screams destiny, corruption, and a clash of wills on a cosmic scale.

Kris Anka’s variant cover presents Superman with bold, cinematic elegance, his gaze lifted in proud defiance. The Sol cape unfurls behind him as the blazing red backdrop, alive and ever-expanding, framing him like a living banner of Krypton. It’s clean, iconic, and commanding—Superman standing as the Absolute Universe’s unbreakable symbol of hope. This cover, based on the story within this issue, I feel should have been the standard cover.

In Mattia De Iulis’ variant cover, Superman rises from fire and stone, roaring in fury as molten energy erupts around him. His body glows with raw power, the “S” on his chest blazing like a brand of defiance. It’s primal, visceral, and unforgettable—Superman as both man and elemental force, forged in chaos.

Even though the characters in Absolute Superman are vastly different than the ones in the regular DC Universe, they seem also very familiar in their traits and viewpoints on events happening within the series. It’s incredible how fresh and new this series is and yet still feels like classic Superman. Aaron knows exactly the right way to pace this series issues. With al of the action that took place in previous issues, it’s nice to take a moment to breathe as a reader, and especially the characters, and fill in some gaps. Aaron masterfully does all this while also introducing a very familiar Superman character. Aaron adds more astonishing layers to his characters, especially Sol, the AI computer program sent to Earth along with Kal-El to serve as a protector, knowledge bank and moral compass for Superman.

I continue to enjoy Sandoval and Arreola team ups with the artwork and appreciate how they convey power and emotions and can let those art pieces leave a mark on its readers. Along with Aaron’s words, the artwork of Sandoval and Arreola bring the entire story into an alignment of great storytelling, relatable characters and fascinating artwork. The Absolute Universe, especially Absolute Superman, continues to hit its marks and then some each time it comes out. I love this universe’s Superman and its supporting characters, and I can’t wait to see them again.

This is one of my favorite comic book series and I look forward to each issue. I know this Universe is part of a big upcoming event, but I really hope this universe continues past that event. I really want to have it around for a couple of years and see how things eventually unfold in the grand scheme of things for Superman, Lois, Jimmy and this Earth under the evil force of Ra’s Lazarus Corporation.

(10/10) Even though Absolute Superman #12 is primarily a flashback issue, it’s a great jumping on point if you have missed any issues before this one. If you aren’t up to date, go back and read the previous issues as we all prepare for the fight of the century, Superman vs. Lazarus Corp.