SUPERMAN UNLIMITED #16 (DC COMICS)
Zod’s hostile takeover of El Caldero continues with no mercy.
The volatile Kryptonian has imposed his will and heroes are falling. Even with a returning Clark Kent, it may not be enough to stop the madman.
Complicating matters further is a Kyrptonite plague spreading across the world. John Henry Iron & Steelworks are working on a cure but need more time than Zod will allow.
It’s now up to Superboy-Prime and Conner Kent to hold the line. The question remains: Will they be the next to Kneel Before Zod!
SUPERMAN UNLIMITED #16 by Dan Slott, Rachael Stott, Giuliano Peratelli & Dave Sharpe (DC Comics) continues part 3 of “Kingdom of Zod”!
Let’s take a look at the latest.
SUPERMAN UNLIMITED #16 by Dan Slott, Rachael Stott, Giuliano Peratelli & Dave Sharpe (DC Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Slott lays out a desperate attempt to swing momentum back in the Super family direction. The issue rolls out another piece of Zod’s backstory before diving into chaos. Seeing the residents of El Caldero praying for Superman’s return sends a strong message before the action launches. Watching CK and Connor mount an offense is assisted with their clashing dialogue. It is very clear they press each other’s buttons while Zod looms overhead ready to strike.
Once the combat ends, the writing shows him dealing with quiet complications. As his powers return, the problems the heroes are dealing with grow stronger. This allows for Superman’s arrival to have more gravity. His reaction to the spreading plague and Zod is crystal clear. Moving Superboy out of harms’ way is logical, but not without its own issues. The reunion with Supergirl is a brief happy point before the fight rages forth. Side plots move steadily behind Superman’s constant hope. The ending is solid bringing the focus back to the heavyweight bout. Welcome back Clark indeed.
MORE FROM THE KINGDOM OF ZOD!
Scott steps in for art duties with Peratelli. The opening pages convey the “video footage” each crossover issue has opened with. Zod’s growing rage is undeniable. Once events come back to Earth, the look of fear on the residents of El Caldero speaks volumes. It is reminiscent of Superman’s status portrayed in films. Events don’t linger here too long as the fighting begins. Panels flow fast as the young Supermen attempt to take down Zod. Their plans result is less than ideal success.
A strong full page brings Superman and his time-travelling allies into play. Superman’s reaction goes to fear realizing what danger he’s put his younger self in. Readers don’t wait long for more action (albeit brief) to break up events. It results in a reminder of Superman’s inspiration as times get tough. Other characters get some fast page time as one pairing steals the show. An excellent full page showcases the meeting of Supergirl and Superboy. Shadowing with alternate versions is a great tough into the heartwarming moment. The main event is less welcoming as Zod attempts to advance. A solid half page image shows Superman’s family time before ending with a great cliffhanger panel. It leaves readers in a nice spot till next round.
FINAL GRADE: 8.7
Zod isn’t satisfied with his current victories and the Super family is scrambling to stop him! Slott exposes more of Zod’s schemes with a great script. Scott & the team keep events rolling with a steady balance of drama and action. There’s no turning back now!
Let me know your thoughts on Superman Unlimited #16 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
