DC’s Absolute Wonder Woman series, with its first volume titled “The Last Amazon,” introduces a bold and captivating new take on the iconic hero. It’s the second title in DC’s new Absolute Universe, a fresh initiative that poses a fascinating question: What if we stripped away everything that defines our iconic characters and left only their essence? The result is an engaging and frankly badass reimagining of Wonder Woman, crafted by the stellar creative team of writer Kelly Thompson and artists Hayden Sherman and Mattia De Iulis.
In Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1, we meet a Wonder Woman unlike any we’ve seen before. Raised in Hell by the sorceress Circe, this Diana is not just an Amazonian princess; she’s a fierce warrior with a massive buster sword, striking armor, a skeletal Pegasus, and a crimson, hellfire-forged lasso.
The story begins with Diana defending Gateway City from a demonic horde, arriving with a powerful presence that immediately sets her apart. We learn that despite her infernal upbringing, Diana’s inherent goodness remains. Instead of being corrupted by Hell, she begins to change her surroundings, even transforming her distant caretaker, Circe, into a loving mother figure.
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Thompson’s writing is a masterclass in reinventing a classic character while preserving their core essence. The decision to make Circe her mother is a brilliant twist, adding a deeply personal layer to their relationship. Furthermore, the portrayal of Diana as a magic user feels natural and fitting, expanding her abilities in a way that aligns perfectly with her mythological roots.
The art in Absolute Wonder Woman is nothing short of phenomenal. Hayden Sherman’s sharp lines and bombastic style create a truly distinct Wonder Woman; a towering, seven-foot-tall figure who dwarfs ordinary men. Sherman’s unconventional action sequences and dynamic layouts, like the stunning shot of Diana astride her skeletal steed, make every page a visual feast.
Later, guest artist Mattia De Iulis takes over for issues six and seven, bringing a crispness and beautiful, detailed approach to the art. His Diana is powerful yet vulnerable, and his action scenes are full of tension and impact. The designs for the gods, particularly the humorous and sassy Hades, are creative and fresh.
Jordie Bellaire’s vibrant colors tie everything together. Her bold reds in the battle scenes and her nuanced use of color in quieter moments, like transforming Diana’s cave from a dark prison into a warm, light-filled haven, give the series a beautiful and distinct look. Becca Carey’s lettering is equally praiseworthy, from the amusing “yeet” of a baby Diana to the evocative sound effects and distinct speech bubbles for the gods, enhancing the immersive experience.
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Thompson’s storytelling is deeply rooted in mythology, but she constantly puts a new spin on familiar tropes. The Nemesis Lasso, which burns with a pain proportional to a target’s sins, is a brilliant and brutal concept. The mystery surrounding Steve Trevor’s hellish backstory and the introduction of a compassionate, yet-to-be-corrupted Cheetah promise exciting future storylines.
Issues #6 and #7, in particular, showcase Thompson’s mastery of mythological storytelling, exploring the origins of Diana’s weapons and her fateful confrontation with Hades. The narrative structure, which jumps back and forth in time, is used to tell a powerful story about free will and the illusion of choice. Thompson skillfully weaves in themes from classic stories like “The Lady or the Tiger,” but gives Diana the agency to choose her own path, reinforcing the core of her character.
Absolute Wonder Woman successfully launches the new Absolute Universe by creating a high-stakes setting that feels both epic and personal. Thompson and the art teams craft a world where ancient gods mingle with modern life and where threats like the Tetracide, a creature that erases fear and replaces it with a fatal attraction, challenge Diana in new and profound ways.
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The series is not without its minor quibbles, such as a few moments of convenient plotting or pacing issues in the middle of a story arc. However, these are small distractions in an otherwise stellar run. The emotional depth, particularly in Diana’s reconciliation with her mother Circe and her unwavering heroism, solidifies this as a truly impactful and memorable series.
Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Last Amazon delivers a thrilling, emotionally resonant, and visually stunning reimagining of a legendary hero. It successfully reinvents Wonder Woman for a new generation while preserving the heart of what makes her great. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new reader, you won’t want to miss this series.
Have you picked up Absolute Wonder Woman Vol 1 yet? What were your favorite moments? Send us a message and let us know!
‘Absolute Wonder Woman’ Vol. 1: The Last Amazon Review: A New Universe for an Iconic Hero
Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Last Amazon delivers a thrilling, emotionally resonant, and visually stunning reimagining of a legendary hero. It successfully reinvents Wonder Woman for a new generation while preserving the heart of what makes her great. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new reader, you won’t want to miss this series.
