After the “Kingdom of Zod” fell, one would think Clark Kent would want to take some time off.
Think again.
With word of missing people growing in Metropolis, Kent puts his reporter skills to the test. What he finds is anything but ordinary.
SUPERMAN #43 by Joshua Williamson, Xermánico, Alejandro Sánchez & Ariana Maher (DC COMICS) starts a brand new series arc!
Let’s take a closer look at the latest.
SUPERMAN #43 by Joshua Williamson, Xermánico, Alejandro Sánchez & Ariana Maher (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Williamson opens this new arc with a great starting point. Bringing Cat Grant back into the spotlight with Marilyn Moonlight is a great pairing. Their personality clashes add some fun dialogue into the dark mystery they’re seeking out. Once Superman flies into view, the dynamics change slightly. Considering how everything since K.O. has been a monster event, slowing the pace down to ground him helps to flesh out a few plot points.
One of which is life at the Daily Planet. His conversation with Lois Lane is professional in nature but hides the concerns of catching a moment. This issue gets forced with Clark’s new assignment. The writing brings back vintage reporter moments as Clark begins his fact finding. This pushes events into unique spaces. Readers get some solid action thrown in before the shocking final act. Once here, the stage is set for a major return that Supes might not be ready for. The final page is prime indication of that. What a solid start to this new story.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Xermánico & Sánchez structure panels in a creative stance to open events. Using the actual Daily Planet newspaper as the outline, panels show Grant and Moonlight on their search. A stunning two page spread brings out the mystery of their investigation. It pivots to an excellent two page spread of Superman flying in the daylight. Seeing this moment is a nice nod to the vintage times and marks a true starting point post DC K.O. and Zod.
The interactions with Lois walk a fine line while Sánchez coloring brings out the magic in recent events. This becomes a solid transition moment as Superman breaks for action before his case begins. Panels fill with many familiar themes as Kent hits the city streets. Interactions with old friends lock in on the mystique of the past while exposing the problem. Grant’ journal page set-up pops as Superman flies into the heart of the matter. This provides fast action while moving to close. A chilling two page spread teases the true evil in the air. It adds more weight to the final page, which shakes everything up to its’ core. A great opening round for the new art team to make some waves.
FINAL GRADE: 9
What is going on at night in Metropolis? Clark Kent looks to find out as he returns to his beloved city with an all new story. Williamson blends in classic themes with a fresh new challenge. Xermánico & Sánchez hone in on the strengths of Big Blue for excellent art images. Williamson’s run continues to deliver some of the Best Superman stories ever!
Let me know your thoughts on Superman #43 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
