SUPERMAN: FATHER OF TOMORROW #1 (DC COMICS)
A planet explodes in the far corner of the universe. One lone passenger is on board. The ship crashes in Smallville, Kansas.
Think you’ve heard this story before? Think again.
Who emerges from the vessel isn’t a young boy. This Man of Tomorrow is named Jor-El!
SUPERMAN: FATHER OF TOMORROW #1 by Kenny Porter, Danny Earls,Nick Filardi &Lucas Gattoni shows a new take on the mythos of Superman in this DC Elseworlds tale.
Let’s take a look and see how this debut fares.
SUPERMAN: FATHER OF TOMORROW #1 by Kenny Porter, Danny Earls ,Nick Filardi &Lucas Gattoni (DC Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Porter begins this adventure with a more explosive beginning. The writing shows Jor-El being attacked before crashing into Earth. Once here, the familiar narratives begin to take hold. There are some noteworthy switches involved. Jor-El is fully grown. The supporting cast hasn’t been aged up. This means Lois Lane and Lex Luthor are children in this tale. It results in a un dynamic to work around. None stands out more than Jonathan Kent and Jor-El.
Having the “adoptive” family clash over ethics and technology is a solid base to grow from. Their dialogue shows the differences, but maintains the wholesomeness cemented with the Kents. This all changes when tragedy strikes. The question of ethics is now being challenged to its core. This leads Jor-El into an unavoidable destiny. Readers watch as Jor-El’s first challenge in his new role leads to a solid battle. Porter does tweak a few elements enough to tease something more on the horizon. The aftermath leaves no doubt change has arrived, but is Metropolis ready?
HOW BOUT SOME WORLD’S FINEST!
Earls and Filardi start Jor-El’s journey with some space action. A full page image shows his response to being attacked while travelling peacefully. This leads into a full shot of Jor-El emerging from his crash at the Kent’s farm. Gattoni’s lettering steals this moment before sending readers into the heart of the matter. Panels fill with a more “normal” state as The Lanes and Kents both go through key moments. Jor-El’s walk through a farmers market leaves a deeper impression judging by his reaction.
The sadness of memories take hold while talking with Jonathan Kent. Earls unveils this vulnerability while repeating Krypton’s destruction. This sets up the unfortunate series of events that rock Jor-El’s new foundation. Readers witness his range of emotions as events play out against him. This leads into a shift in direction as Gen. Lane is unveiling a new weapon. When things go haywire, a full page image shows a new hero has emerged. This leads into fast action and a steady finish. Amidst the full final page, a smaller panel tips off where Jor-El’s mind is as a new destiny is laid out.
FINAL GRADE: 8.5
Truth, Justice and a Better Tomorrow gets a new perspective as the Last Man of Krypton forges a new path. Porter’s writing balances the traditional themes while crafting a new vision. Earls and Filardi deliver on action and intrigue with the art. A new take that will change the way you look at the Superman mythos.
Let me know your thoughts on Superman: Father of Tomorrow #1 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
