REVIEW: Superman: Red & Blue 2025 Special #1
The Eisner nominated ‘Superman: Red & Blue’ series is back with a brand new book, to bring joy to both long time Superman fans, and also newly invested movie goers who have James Gunn’s film still fresh in their minds.
But before we get into the issue itself, let’s take a look at the covers. The main cover is by Chris Samnee and it is excellent! We Superman make his way against the snow and I just love how inventive the covers are for this issue and the previous series. With limited colours being used, it seems to always make it more impactful and this cover is no exception.
The variant cover is by Michael Walsh and again is just so inventive, this cover gives me the feeling that Superman is working against time as he always does. There are real classic vibes to this, from the red streak to the spit curl on Superman’s head, it is stunning.
Our first story called “Priceless” is written by Paul Dini, drawn by Mirka Andolfo, colours by Arif Prianto and letters by Ariana Maher. We meet a stressed Superman as he attempts to bail his cousin Kara, out of space prison for causing a ruckus on the planet Kyrus. It’s a hilarious, off-beat story that both offers heart and humour. Paul Dini does a great job at introducing real stakes in the story while also leaving plenty of room for science fiction shenanigans. The art here by Mirka Andolfo gives each panel a sense of momentum, never having the characters feel flat or unfocused, giving it a dynamic feel. It’s a great way to start the anthology and warms up the reader for the stories to come.
“All The Time In The World” is written, illustrated, coloured and lettered by Michael Walsh and is a slice of life short that shows us the vast array of things that Superman does on a day to day basis, and how that impacts both his life professionally and personally. Whether he’s subduing a killer robot or aiding a man during a health crisis, we see the mounding weight on Clark’s shoulders as responsibilities begin to take a toll on him. One of my favourite aspects of the story is how they show his super-hearing. No matter what he just finished facing off, mentally or physically, he hears everything we struggle with and has to remember that it’s important to focus on helping yourself before helping others. It’s a truly touching and eye-catching story that will no doubt end up being a fan favourite.
“Out of the Ordinary” is written by Dan Abnett, drawn by Caitlin Yarsky, coloured by Alex Guimares and lettered by Clayton Cowles. It’s a wholesome story about a bored small town journalist looking for a thrilling story to get pupils on the pages of her newspaper. Luckily, or unluckily, the town is swarmed by gigantic robots. Superman arrives just in time to help the citizens of the area and wrangles the behemoths up without breaking a sweat. Afterwards, he checks in on the town and the journalist finally gets her big exclusive story, not only on a bonkers alien invasion, but also a face to face interview with the boy scout himself, which leads to an insightful and interesting conversation between the two. Caitlin Yarsky does a brilliant job making Superman both physically imposing, but also still giving him that approachable kind face. Perhaps it’s the Silver Kryptonite talking, but I feel like Superman share a lot of resemblance to our newest Superman actor, David Corenswet. Dan Abnett gives each character playful dialogue but also knows when to ground the conversation and make each panel feel important. I have no doubt it will start a discourse regarding Superman’s identity, or identities as it makes clear declaration as to who in fact is the real person underneath.
“Red-Letter Days” is written by Rainbow Rowell, drawn by Cian Tormey, coloured by Romulo Fajardo Jr and lettered by Dave Sharpe. It gives us a romantic tale of Lois and Clark at The Daily Planet, juggling the responsibilities of being both reporters, while also having a super-heroic lifestyle. Rainbow Rowell perfectly captures Clark and Lois’ dynamic with their humour and respect and appreciation they have for each other. It’s a story that reminders us that some of the best time we have with our partners, friends and families are completely improvised. Plans you think got ruined actually turn out to be a blessing in disguise, that end up being better than the ones you might’ve planned out, those are true moments of connection. No different than how we can enjoy an anthology comic like this one. Is there a clear beginning to end timeline throughout? No. Do we know what will happen? Not really. Is it worthwhile? A hundred percent.
(9/10) Superman: Red & Blue 2025 Special #1 is wonderful artistry all round filled with stories that make Superman who he is. If you enjoyed the first series, this is definitely worth grabbing from your local comic shop!
