Absolute Superman #11: We Deserve Liberty

Ra’s al Ghul has gotten hold of Superman, and is set on making him the Son of the Demon. Using Brainiac’s mind-altering Lazarus Pit, he aims to make the Man of Steel an absolute killing machine.  Absolute Superman #11 continues the story of a variant Superman set in the Absolute Universe created by Darkseid. Written by Jason Aaron with art by Carmine Di Giandomenico, this issue is the body and psychological horror we can expect from this series. As Brainiac tries to change Superman’s memories and make him a killing machine, can Superman stick to his moral compass? Learn this and more in this issue filled with horror, action, and beautiful narrative insight.

This series continues to be the best thing from DC in a long time. It’s difficult to take an iconic character like Superman and reinvent him in a way that feels fresh, but Jason Aaron manages to reimagine Superman in the modern era while still capturing the essence of his character. The themes that Aaron presents in this series are themes that stay true to the characters but really hit home in our modern-day political climate. This version of Superman, reflecting an immigrant and working-class story, makes sense and aligns with the values at the core of Superman’s character. Superman also fighting an evil corporation that is exploiting its workers and feeding the rich just feels so timely. It’s a reminder that Superman is a hero for all generations. The hope that Superman inspires comes off the page and into our real lives. Superman is the hero we need today. I enjoyed that this issue explores his moral code, since this version of Superman didn’t have much time with the Kents to understand how to be a human. It’s an interesting introspective exercise as he tries to keep his moral code in this new world. This issue reflects the real-world issues happening today, with billionaires controlling the political landscape and making the rich richer. I love it when comic book villains parallel real-world villains, and it’s done so well in this comic.

The worldbuilding is expanded upon by the incredible art by Carmine Di Giandomenico and colors by Ulises Arreola. Di Giandomenico’s detailed, expressive style brings the world of Absolute Superman to life with energy and dynamism. The art in this issue is terrifying and Di Giandomenico does not hold back on bringing the horror. It’s dark and eerie, just like this version of Absolute Superman. From the very first page, this issue’s art captivates, drawing readers into its world with energy, depth, and breathtaking detail.