SUPERMAN: the stranger #1 (DC COMICS)
The story of Superman is forever timeless.
In the years of the Golden Age, it took on a different feel. Starting out in the cold streets of Metropolis, Clark Kent learns the hard way that things aren’t always Truth, Justice and a Better Tomorrow.
How can he inspire hope when he lacks it himself?
SUPERMAN: THE STRANGER #1 by Wes Craig,Jason Wordie & Tom Napolitano(DC COMICS) presents a new look at the early years under the DC Black Label banner.
Let’s take a look at what happens here.
SUPERMAN: THE STRANGER #1 by Wes Craig, Jason Wordie & Tom Napolitano (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Craig delivers an intriguing first look when handling this era of Superman. The initial outings at the Daily Planet are gruff. It reflects the hard times of the era. Perry White’s words hit hard as Clark processes his dreams being halted. Staging his inner dialogue next to the panels is a stylish take. It moves events to a rare alone moment to gather his thoughts. The moment starts peeling back layers of walls he’s set up. Doubt is creeping fast than expected.
The moment shifts gears to a traditional Superman place where he’s helping someone from a robbery. The writing throws a solid twist into play that redirects the thoughts of Big Blue. Knowing right and wrong comes with a heavy weight. His thoughts elude to wanting to do more. This becomes problematic to who is introduced in the closing act. Their manipulation of events orchestrates something far greater. Seeing how they conduct their business sets the stage for a brutal confrontation yet to come. A very solid start to this story.
SUPERMAN ON ELSEWORDS!
Pulling double duty, Craig opens with a full page image teasing of Superman’s involvement. The pages regroup and start showcasing tie in at the Daily Planet. Their conversation carries a sad feel as White gives a harsh view of the world. This moves events to a full shot of the Big City. Flipping the dialogue to the side of panels gives the impressions of walking with Clark Kent as he’s talking aloud. It leads to a steady moment of reflection before another issue takes hold.
A fantastic two page spread shows Superman coming to the aid of robbery victims. Readers watch as this crime is not so cut and dry. Clark’s reactions speak loudly in its’ aftermath. They plant the groundwork for pondering more. It leaves off with a superb shot of Supes staring into the sky with many unanswered questions. It is a far cry from where events go in the closing pages. Another player enters the game with a chilling feel around the panels. Their interaction with a senator indicates something far worse arriving. The closing panels cement the ruthlessness being on display here. Nothing is fair when power and control is involved.
FINAL GRADE: 9
A new look at the Golden Era of Superman challenges hope at its’ core in this debut round. Craig orchestrates a thought provoking look at Superman while maintaining a classic feel to the art with excellent images abound. How can one inspire hope when they don’t have it themselves? Find out here!
Let me know your thoughts on Superman: The Stranger #1 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
