Absolute Superman #18: King Shazam

Absolute Superman has found his purpose in this new world and works tirelessly to save lives. However, the remnants of the Lazarus Corporation still pose dangers for the Man of Steel.  Absolute Superman #18 starts a new chapter for the multiverse Absolute version of Superman. Written by Jason Aaron and introducing art by Rafa Sandoval, this issue tells the origins of a great evil: King Shazam. Superman has started his new life, but Lois has not gotten over the death of her father. When Lois sets out to kill Talia al Ghul, it’s up to Superman to stop her. But what secrets lie beneath the Lazarus Corporation’s last stronghold?  Find out in this issue filled with heart, action, and beautiful narrative insight.

This book is the best line coming out of DC right now. The way that Jason Aaron takes a bold political stance in these pages is inspiring and it’s exactly how a Superman story should make readers feel. It’s difficult to take an iconic character like Superman and reinvent him in a way that feels fresh, but Aaron manages to reimagine Superman in the modern era while still capturing the essence of his character. Aaron is writing poetry in these pages, and it demonstrates the introspective nature of this version of Superman. 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 shows the evils that Superman chooses to fight and the way he handles grief. It’s a reminder for all of us to continue to fight even when we are scared. It’s an interesting theme that parallels present-day political issues, but it’s an important reminder that Superman stories are human stories. The damage that Dwayne Johnson did to the DCU is irreparable, and it’s still seen as Black Adam is poised to be a great Superman foe in this story.  I’m interested to see where King Shazam comes in and his ideology on fighting evil. It seems like a new take that may be relevant to our current day. Superman is the hero for everyone, both on and off the page. This issue focuses on the hope that Superman inspires, and he pushes him limits to save those in need. He becomes the hero of the redeemable in this issue and it is beautiful.  My favorite part of Superman stories is that he is as much a human as he is alien, and this issue hits that nail on the head. It’s a beautiful story and Aaron deserves so much praise.

This issue brings back Rafa Sandoval, which is a welcomed treat. Sandoval’s detailed, expressive style brings the world of Absolute Superman to life with energy and dynamism. His characters are full of life, with expressive faces that convey emotion as much as his action-packed layouts convey intensity. I like how the design of Absolute Superman stays true to the original while blending in a grittier nature-inspired image. It fits with the “lost child” that Lois describes him to be. The way Sandoval makes Superman’s laser vision look like lava, and the sandstone cape make Superman feel dark and fit with the environmental undertones of the story. I’m excited for wider audiences to see Sandoval’s work in this series. Arreola adds to this gritty version of Superman with earth tones that match the vibe of the Absolute version of Krypton. From the very first page, this issue’s art captivates, drawing readers into its world with energy, depth, and breathtaking detail.