REVIEW: Superman Unlimited #9

Superman Unlimited #9, “Die Laughing, Part One,” continues the series’ bold reimagining of a world where Kryptonite is no longer rare—and where Superman has unlocked a new golden form that renders him effectively invulnerable to it. I can’t help but relate this transformation to a “Super Saiyan” moment for the Man of Steel. This issue is fun, confident, and continues to build upon the evolving dynamics of Superman’s world, while also introducing two generations of supervillains into the mix.

I’ve really enjoyed this series overall, especially its classic Superman feel. The winks and nods to Superman’s mythos and legacy consistently put a grin on this longtime fan’s face. As a journalist, I also appreciated several scenes in this issue that center on reporters—particularly moments shared among notable journalists who are also lifelong friends. But before getting into that, let’s look at this issue’s great covers.

Dave Johnson’s standard cover places Clark Kent front and center, as breaking news collides with his secret identity. The bold Daily Planet headline and the threatening bulletin on the television about the Prankster signals “this is a job for Superman”. It’s classic tension in a single image, balancing truth, responsibility, and urgency.

The variant by penciller Carlo Pagulayan, cover inker Jason Paz, and colorist Elmer Santos highlights Superman’s bond with the people. It captures a quiet, heartfelt moment as Superman reaches toward a child in a cheering crowd, the child holding up a teddy bear in admiration. The image reinforces the idea that Superman’s greatest strength isn’t his power, but the hope he represents.

Artist Clayton Henry and colorist Arif Prianto’s variant goes big and cosmic, presenting Superman glowing in gold as he rises above the Earth. Mythic and inspiring, the image frames Superman as a universal constant—hope made flesh against the infinite.

Together, these covers present Superman in perfect balance: journalist, protector, and symbol. Whether grounded in human moments or elevated to cosmic legend, Superman Unlimited #9 visually reinforces why Superman endures—because he belongs to everyone, everywhere. There are also variants by Guillem March, Kris Anka, Jason Paz & Elmer Santos and Michael and Laura Allred.

One of the unexpected pleasures of reviewing this issue is a personal connection to the art. I had the opportunity to meet artist Mike Norton last year in Jackson, Tennessee, where I’ve lived for the past 21 years and where Norton is originally from. This is not his first Superman project, as he also provided the art for last year’s hit comic series Krypto: Last Dog of Krypton.

The work of Norton and colorist Marcelo Maiolo shines throughout the issue. Every character, scene, and action panel feels deliberate and expressive. The art team pulls the reader into the story—from spending time with Clark, Steve Lombard, and two very recognizable Gotham City journalists, to the clever use of visual cues and color shifts during flashbacks and Superman’s action sequences. The world feels lived-in and familiar, giving us a strong “day in the life” snapshot of Clark Kent navigating a city saturated with Kryptonite.

Dan Slott’s writing pairs beautifully with the artwork, creating a story that flows effortlessly. Superman doesn’t appear right away, but the issue never loses momentum. Instead, Slott uses that time to introduce new and familiar villains and to revisit the status quo of former Daily Planet Editor-in-Chief Perry White now serving as Mayor of Metropolis. White appears to be doing such an effective job fighting crime—and antagonizing the wrong people—that a contract is ultimately put out on his life.

When Clark catches wind of what’s happening, he naturally shifts into hero mode to protect his good friend and former boss. We also get a glimpse of what newly hired Smallville branch Daily Planet reporter Jon Kent is up to, and it’s clear that his storyline is setting the stage for a much larger upcoming event. As if that weren’t enough, Clark takes a page from Mayor White’s playbook and insults a villain—one who responds by vowing that Clark Kent will die. I also appreciate that Clark doesn’t rely solely on his powers in this issue. His investigative instincts and deductive reasoning play a key role, reinforcing the importance of Clark Kent—not just Superman. Lois Lane was noticeably absent, but Clark’s phone exchange with his son Jon helped fill that emotional space.

(9/10) Superman Unlimited #9 earns its high score through confident pacing, sharp characterization, and a strong balance between classic Superman storytelling and darker modern stakes. Seeing the iconic phrase “Look up in the sky…” twisted into something sinister was both shocking and effective.