REVIEW: Absolute Superman #18

As stated on its cover, Absolute Superman #18: “Reign of the Superman, Part One: The King of the Black Land,” kicks off a thunderous new chapter filled with flashes of lightning—both literal and narrative. Writer Jason Aaron, artist Juan Ferreyra, colorist Ulises Arreola and letterer Becca Carey deliver the origin of one of Earth’s first Supermen, told in an Absolute, twisty way.

This series continues to be a favorite because of how it introduces new Absolute versions of classic DC characters—retaining just enough familiarity to recognize them while adding enough differences to make them feel fresh and exciting. That’s why this series works so well. It’s the friends we know, reimagined with bold new backstories, appearances, and personalities.

I’m ready to expound on that, but first, let’s gawk at this month’s comic covers. The main cover by the series’ OG art team, Rafa Sandoval and Ulises Arreola, gives us an electric look at the arrival of a classic DC character into the Absolute Superman saga. Clark looks terrified as electricity streaks through what appears to be an underground cavern, connecting with a slab of rock marked by a glowing lightning symbol. A powerful hand bursts out from just above the slab, instantly reminding me of Doomsday clawing his way to the surface at the beginning of the 1990s “The Death of Superman” storyline.

Ben Oliver’s variant cover presents a heroic close-up of the Absolute Man of Steel. It looks as if he’s soaring upward toward the sun, followed by an airborne cameraman—possibly in a helicopter—as a lens flare gleams over his left shoulder. It’s a beautiful, powerful piece that feels like a perfectly framed cinematic shot. This image would make an incredible bust for Superman fans.

The Unknown Comics retailer-exclusive variant by Dave Wilkins is a masterclass in depicting a superhero ready for battle, undeterred by a being that commands lightning itself. Superman hovers midair, cape spread wide, as bolts of electricity strike him from every direction. He doesn’t flinch. His expression is locked in determination and defiance. It’s time for the battle of the century.

There are also variants available by Gerald Parel and Chris Burnham & Brian Reber.

Ferreyra’s interior artwork is amazing, as usual, capturing both emotion and action in a truly cinematic way. From panel to panel, his work feels like still frames from a live-action superhero film. My imagination—which is already very active—barely had to do any extra work while reading this issue. That’s been the case since the beginning of this series, and it continues here in full force.

Aaron’s scripting plays a major role in that seamless experience. His pacing, combined with Ferreyra’s visuals, creates a synchronized rhythm between story, art, and dialogue that flows effortlessly. I especially appreciate how this creative team weaves together past, present, and future. Just when you think you’ve settled into the direction of the story—POW—it shifts. It’s like beating the final boss in a fighting game, only to see the words: “A new player has entered the fight!” These surprises are not only effective—they’re welcomed.

This new arc takes its time catching us up on events following Absolute Superman #17. We see what’s become of Jimmy and Lois as they apply to work at The Daily Planet, what Clark did with Parasite after the previous issue’s terrifying conclusion, and what Talia and Ra’s al Ghul have been plotting since Talia used Hawkman as a distraction to free her father. On top of that, we’re introduced to no less than three new interpretations of DC characters. I’ll hold off on diving into those until my next review—I don’t want to spoil the surprises—but I will say this: I’m already invested. I want to know who they are, what drives them, and whether they stand for good or something far more dangerous.

(10/10) Absolute Superman #18 is a solid, strong issue that effectively sets the stage for a new chapter in the lives of Clark and Lois. Lois remains the same relentless, determined force she has always been—whether as a journalist or as the daughter of a general. We also begin to see the profound impact Superman has had on Ra’s al Ghul, and how that influence is shaping his relationship with Talia. There are also exciting teases here—a glimpse at the rise of King Shazam, what appears to be the presence of a Teen Titan, and possibly even a member of the Superman family as we know them in the main continuity.