Absolute Superman #8 kicks off a thrilling new arc, throwing Superman into a brutal conflict between the enigmatic Omega Men and the nefarious Lazarus Corp. While the world around him is in turmoil, all Kal-El truly desires is solace in the one place he’s ever felt truly safe: Smallville.
This issue of Absolute Superman kicks off with Rafa Sandoval’s stunning artwork, showcasing Ra’s Al Ghul’s brutal efficiency as he dispatches Omega Men agents. Now calling himself “God’s Head,” Ra’s reveals his plan to resurrect the Earth with Brainiac’s help, all while conducting an investor call.
The focus then shifts to a poignant scene where Superman visits Martha Kent, who, sadly, doesn’t recognize him. Lois and Jimmy are working to gain Superman’s trust, understanding his constant need to move due to his isolation on Earth. Jason Aaron masterfully portrays Superman’s vulnerability throughout this series, and it’s particularly evident here.
The tension escalates when Superman is suddenly sniped with a kryptonite bullet, signaling the return of Chris Smith (or is it Metallo?). The issue culminates with Superman’s suit transforming into an epic full armor mode, a surprising rescue by an enemy, and a tantalizing tease for what’s to come.
Credit: DC Comics
Absolute Superman #8 immediately ensnares you, maintaining a relentless tension from start to finish. Aaron has perfected Superman’s portrayal as a true fugitive, revealing a Kal-El who is profoundly alien, with seemingly no one on Earth he can trust. The stakes are high, facing an adversary with the entire planet under its heel, yet it’s Rafa Sandoval’s art that propels this issue to extraordinary new heights.
Picking up the artistic mantle from guest artist Carmine Di Giandomenico after a brief hiatus, Sandoval doesn’t just return; he excels. His lines are majestic and crisp, perfectly capturing the bombastic superhero action we adore. His action sequences are even more exceptional, featuring fluid, hard-hitting combat that dramatically escalates the challenges for the Man of Steel. And the Sol armor? It’s a marvel, a sleek black form ignited by fiery orange lines that exude pure style.
Colorist Ulises Arreola paints a vivid world, making everything bright, vibrant, and incredibly impactful. Superman’s orange armor gleams, and the striking purple of Chris Smith’s new armor ensures he commands attention, even amidst the vibrant red of the Peacemakers’ suits. Letterer Becca Carey’s work is impeccable and effortless to follow, replete with dynamic onomatopoeic action and one of the most stunning boom tube designs I’ve encountered.
But if there’s a downside to this issue, it’s that scene where Aaron has Ra’s al Ghul with a baby. We already know he’s evil, so having him off an infant feels a bit much, and not in a cool, necessary way.
Credit: DC Comics
Absolute Superman #8 launches a thrilling new arc, thrusting Superman into a brutal conflict between the Omega Men and Lazarus Corp, all while he grapples with profound isolation and vulnerability. The issue is visually stunning, with Rafa Sandoval’s majestic art and Ulises Arreola’s vibrant colors elevating the intense action and emotional depth of Superman’s journey.
‘Absolute Superman’ #8 New Arc, New Armor
Absolute Superman #8 launches a thrilling new arc, thrusting Superman into a brutal conflict between the Omega Men and Lazarus Corp, all while he grapples with profound isolation and vulnerability. The issue is visually stunning, with Rafa Sandoval’s majestic art and Ulises Arreola’s vibrant colors elevating the intense action and emotional depth of Superman’s journey.
