ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #15 (DC COMICS)
It’s a new day in Smallville, Kansas.
Against incredible odds, the people fought back against the Machine. The Lazarus Corporation & Ra’s Al Ghul were defeated by the Man Of Tomorrow.
It dod not come without great loss. Martha Kent passed away before her adopted son was able to celebrate his victory. Krytpon’s last son also was dealt a blow with Sol, his living sentient cape sacrificed itself to assure a win.
They say time heals all wounds. Tell that to Kal-El, or better known as Superman!
ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #15 by Jason Aaron, Juan Ferreyra & Becca Carey conclude the “Battle Of Kansas” storyline
Let’s take a closer look at how this new arc begins.
ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #15 by Jason Aaron, Juan Ferreyra & Becca Carey (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Aaron slows down the pace to remind the audience about what comprises the Man of Tomorrow. After coming off such grave losses, Superman has accepted his destiny that he had been running from. His natural instincts of helping take over. From stopping a dam break to addressing a familiar rogue in new fashion, Superman makes statements representing good and hope. Even with grieving for Sol, this narrative remains true. One challenge proves greater than his methods can reach. Dealing with Ra’s Al Ghul proves a more complex challenge than expected.
Their exchange provides opposition to his eternal hope. Seeing Ra’s explain his withering state is a nice twist into his mystique. The writing shows his defiance in Clark’s moves against him. It is a unique play that comes back later in the chapter. Once events move to Metropolis, Superman’s exchange with Lois Lane echoes familiar themes of their history. Aaron displays how Clark is accepting of his new life. The closing does disrupt the developing dream. A new player has made their way to Kansas and they’re not exchanging pleasantries. Considering “Absolute Evil,” expect this to have fireworks. The final page is another loose thread being pulled that is long overdue. Readers have much to look forward to here.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Ferreyra does art and coloring for this new arc. The two page splash of Superman flying into action is as vintage as it gets. It’s a refreshing change of pace for the Absolute Universe. The art gives each Super save a monumental feel with near full page panels. The rogue sequence plays out with a harder edge but one needed for the encounter. Once the story slows down on a failed search does Superman pause. Readers can sense the break and a rush of sorrow to reflect. The next destination is anything but forgiving for one party involved.
The rage and maniacal laugh Al Ghul displays when talking with Superman sets the tone. Readers watch as Superman tries reasoning with the Demon’s Head. It is less than successful. Ferreyra gets the most out of these scenes with Ah Ghul’s expressions. The Lois and Lana interludes have a very timeless feel to them. It offsets the dwindling enegry Kal-El is burning through. There are limits, even to a Superman. This pushes events into the closing pages. The huge guest star gets a full image ready to fight. Another loose thread gets the last word. Readers see a maniac at work & there’s nothing nice on its way.
FINAL POINT: 9.3
The new era of Smallville starts off with a reminder of what comprises Krypton’s last son. Aaron pens a tale fixed on the inner struggle and strength needed to be a beacon of hope. Ferreyra’s art shines when displaying Superman at his finest. Brace for impact on what’s coming next.
Let me know your thoughts on ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #15 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
