ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #22 (DC COMICS)
In the wake of the epic fight with King Shazam, Superman has one idea dominating his thoughts…
GET BRAINIAC!
Knowing this is easier said than done, Superman tracks his latest lead to Argentina. Where he doesn’t find his intended target, Kal confronts an old enemy of his past,
ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #22 by Jason Aaron, Juan Ferreyra & Becca Carey begins “Get Brainaic”!
Let’s take a deeper dive into the latest.
ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #22 by Jason Aaron, Juan Ferreyra & Becca Carey (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Aaron starts with a very traditional Superman beginning in this aftermath of Shazam. Seeing Supes going after Brainiac is a logical response considering what has transpired. Once arriving in Argentina, he discovers someone else. Readers see Absolute Metallo bringing the fight. Where Aaron veers from the traditional take is who’s behind the metal armor.
Using Christopher Smith as the new host opens up the door for more depth onto the character. It has been a while since Smith was “fixed” by Brainaic after failing his last Lazarus mission. The writing splices in his past along with Brainiac’s experimentations to develop some sympathy for this character. In true Supes fashion, the refusal to quit on him never leaves the fight. This carries on for the majority of the book. Once a breakthrough is made, the story finds a new avenue to head down. This forces a more somber close with a refocus on what must happen now. Aaron hasn’t missed thus far and there’s no reason to believe this story won’t hit a bullseye either.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Ferreyra returns for art duties with this chapter. The opening pages tease the hunt for the Superman rogue. During the chaotic pace, a half panel unveils Metallo in all his evil glory via half panel. Action is flying in hot and heavy as the brawl gets more out of control. This is interrupted by Smith’s eventual reveal and following flashbacks. They serve as a perfect pivoting point to give readers time to catch breath.
Once the fight begins to resume pace, an incredible two page spread showcases Superman’s unending will. The punch laid out justifies the two pages. It keeps events pushing forward, even with a tragedy unfolding. Readers see how much Superman refuses to let hope die in anyone by what he does next. The results are less than ideal for Kal. It proves to win for readers as another superb two page spread graces the pages. It’s complimented by a full shot with panels forming a body outline. One lasting final full page caps off events on a bittersweet note as the hunt is officially on.
FINAL POINT: 9
Superman’s hunt for Brainiac brings another rogue into the line of fire with an excellent chapter. Aaron taps into Superman’s inner drive to keep pushing for victory. Ferreyra returns with electric art flooding the pages. A spectacular start to another excellent story arc!
Let me know your thoughts on ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #22 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
