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Jason Aaron and the art team of Rafa Sandoval and Fico Ossio deliver an emotionally charged and action-packed issue with Absolute Superman #9. This isn’t just another superhero slugfest; it’s a poignant exploration of what it truly means to fight, even when every fiber of your being screams for it to stop.

The issue kicks off with a Superman who’s seen better days. Still reeling from the Kryptonite attacks in issue #8, Kal-El is battered, bruised, and carrying a grim weight. Aaron truly hones in on the poetic tragedy of Kryptonite, that shard of home that constantly threatens to undo him. “Krypton… the gift that keeps killing”. Yet, even with multiple Kryptonite bullets lodged in him, Absolute Superman proves he’s tough as nails, performing his own makeshift surgery.

This desire to survive isn’t just for himself. A brilliant idea introduced here is the idea that if Kal dies, so too does Krypton. This adds a profound layer to his struggle, turning his fight into a cosmic imperative. He’s not just saving Earth; he’s belatedly saving his home world through his very existence. It’s a touching insight into Superman’s core and shows Aaron truly understands the character. 

But he’s not entirely alone. The mysterious Omega Men, armed with a Father Box, finally join forces with Superman. After weeks of recovery, a healed Kal-El is ready to unleash his terrifying power on the Lazarus Corporation. The initial confrontation with the “techno-fascist” Peacemakers is a thrill, showcasing Superman’s raw power, albeit with boundaries. Kal quickly lays down the law to Primus: kill anyone, and he’s out.

DC Comics

One of the most engaging aspects of this issue is the dynamic between Superman and Sol, who acts as a crucial voice of reason. Sol’s concern that this planet is corrupting Kal is palpable, and Superman’s charmingly frustrating refusal to always take his advice adds a nice layer to their relationship. However, the most impactful moments come from Superman’s internal monologue. We witness him grapple with his identity, his purpose, and a profound desire to escape it all and simply be alone. It’s a truly poignant moment that allows us to empathize with a hero who, despite his immense power, feels disconnected from this world. This isn’t his fight, it’s not his planet, and his ties to it beyond a brief interaction with the Kents are minimal.

Beyond the central conflict, a compelling subplot unfolds with Lois Lane, now in the clutches of Ra’s al Ghul. This is Lois at her absolute best: sharp, resourceful, and utterly fearless, turning the tables on Ra’s with her quick wit and unwavering resolve. We also get a poignant conversation between Jimmy Olsen and Kal about the relentless fight against the Lazarus Corporation. It’s a powerful reminder that being part of a resistance is an uphill battle, full of loss and sacrifice. And for the eagle-eyed fans, Jimmy drops some fun easter eggs, referencing “Area 41” from ‘Absolute Wonder Woman,’ “Project Olympus” from ‘Absolute Flash,’ and even teasing a “crazy billionaire Joker” from ‘Absolute Batman.’

The artistic collaboration between Rafa Sandoval and guest artist Fico Ossio generally works well, though there are moments where the shift in styles is noticeable. Sandoval, as usual, absolutely kills it. His art is grand, vibrant, and incredibly kinetic, perfectly capturing Superman’s superspeed as he blitzes through a building or the emotional weight of witnessing protestors hanged. The gravity of those moments is palpable. Ossio, while delivering solid work and aided by colorist Ulises Arreola, doesn’t quite bring the same crispness to facial expressions as Sandoval, but his contributions maintain the overall spirit.

DC Comics

A true highlight is the continued creative use of Superman’s abilities. The “Solar Flare” panel, in particular, is visually stunning. A burst of fiery orange energy that genuinely looks like a cosmic event. This team consistently finds ways to inject new life into a character who often seems unchanging.

Ulises Arreola’s colors are phenomenal. The deep blue of a boom tube opening feels like staring into a distant star, Superman’s iconic red cape pops with vibrant impact, and the engulfing orange of Sol commands attention, immersing you fully in the fiery action. Letterer Becca Carey also deserves a shout-out for her engaging work, with easy-to-follow dialogue and the always satisfying “BOOMs” that punctuate the action with undeniable flair.

Absolute Superman #9 is a powerful read that explores Superman’s inner turmoil, the relentless nature of the fight for justice, and the sacrifices made along the way. Despite a minor art consistency issue, the compelling story, emotional depth, and stunning visuals make this a great read for any Superman fan.

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Jason Aaron and the art team of Rafa Sandoval and Fico Ossio deliver an emotionally charged and action-packed issue with Absolute Superman #9. This isn’t just another superhero slugfest; it’s a poignant exploration of what it truly means to fight, even when every fiber of your being screams for it to stop.

The issue kicks off with a Superman who’s seen better days. Still reeling from the Kryptonite attacks in issue #8, Kal-El is battered, bruised, and carrying a grim weight. Aaron truly hones in on the poetic tragedy of Kryptonite, that shard of home that constantly threatens to undo him. “Krypton… the gift that keeps killing”. Yet, even with multiple Kryptonite bullets lodged in him, Absolute Superman proves he’s tough as nails, performing his own makeshift surgery.

This desire to survive isn’t just for himself. A brilliant idea introduced here is the idea that if Kal dies, so too does Krypton. This adds a profound layer to his struggle, turning his fight into a cosmic imperative. He’s not just saving Earth; he’s belatedly saving his home world through his very existence. It’s a touching insight into Superman’s core and shows Aaron truly understands the character. 

But he’s not entirely alone. The mysterious Omega Men, armed with a Father Box, finally join forces with Superman. After weeks of recovery, a healed Kal-El is ready to unleash his terrifying power on the Lazarus Corporation. The initial confrontation with the “techno-fascist” Peacemakers is a thrill, showcasing Superman’s raw power, albeit with boundaries. Kal quickly lays down the law to Primus: kill anyone, and he’s out.

DC Comics

One of the most engaging aspects of this issue is the dynamic between Superman and Sol, who acts as a crucial voice of reason. Sol’s concern that this planet is corrupting Kal is palpable, and Superman’s charmingly frustrating refusal to always take his advice adds a nice layer to their relationship. However, the most impactful moments come from Superman’s internal monologue. We witness him grapple with his identity, his purpose, and a profound desire to escape it all and simply be alone. It’s a truly poignant moment that allows us to empathize with a hero who, despite his immense power, feels disconnected from this world. This isn’t his fight, it’s not his planet, and his ties to it beyond a brief interaction with the Kents are minimal.

Beyond the central conflict, a compelling subplot unfolds with Lois Lane, now in the clutches of Ra’s al Ghul. This is Lois at her absolute best: sharp, resourceful, and utterly fearless, turning the tables on Ra’s with her quick wit and unwavering resolve. We also get a poignant conversation between Jimmy Olsen and Kal about the relentless fight against the Lazarus Corporation. It’s a powerful reminder that being part of a resistance is an uphill battle, full of loss and sacrifice. And for the eagle-eyed fans, Jimmy drops some fun easter eggs, referencing “Area 41” from ‘Absolute Wonder Woman,’ “Project Olympus” from ‘Absolute Flash,’ and even teasing a “crazy billionaire Joker” from ‘Absolute Batman.’

The artistic collaboration between Rafa Sandoval and guest artist Fico Ossio generally works well, though there are moments where the shift in styles is noticeable. Sandoval, as usual, absolutely kills it. His art is grand, vibrant, and incredibly kinetic, perfectly capturing Superman’s superspeed as he blitzes through a building or the emotional weight of witnessing protestors hanged. The gravity of those moments is palpable. Ossio, while delivering solid work and aided by colorist Ulises Arreola, doesn’t quite bring the same crispness to facial expressions as Sandoval, but his contributions maintain the overall spirit.

DC Comics

A true highlight is the continued creative use of Superman’s abilities. The “Solar Flare” panel, in particular, is visually stunning. A burst of fiery orange energy that genuinely looks like a cosmic event. This team consistently finds ways to inject new life into a character who often seems unchanging.

Ulises Arreola’s colors are phenomenal. The deep blue of a boom tube opening feels like staring into a distant star, Superman’s iconic red cape pops with vibrant impact, and the engulfing orange of Sol commands attention, immersing you fully in the fiery action. Letterer Becca Carey also deserves a shout-out for her engaging work, with easy-to-follow dialogue and the always satisfying “BOOMs” that punctuate the action with undeniable flair.

Absolute Superman #9 is a powerful read that explores Superman’s inner turmoil, the relentless nature of the fight for justice, and the sacrifices made along the way. Despite a minor art consistency issue, the compelling story, emotional depth, and stunning visuals make this a great read for any Superman fan.