Absolute Superman #2: Chuffed

I’ll admit that I have been so excited for the Absolute Superman series, I was worried it would not meet my expectations. However, this series is not only meeting my expectations but exceeding them. Absolute Superman #2 continues the story of a variant Superman set in the Absolute Universe created by Darkseid. Created by the all-star team of writer Jason Aaron, artist Rafa Sandavol, and colorist Ulises Arreola, this new take on the classic character is a visual and narrative feast. Following the explosive first issue, Superman finds himself cuffed (or chuffed) to a military operative Lois Lane, and at the mercy of Lazarus Corporation Peacemakers. Now it’s do-or-die as he must find a way to get away from Lois without getting detained or getting her killed. Can his sentient super suit, Sol, help him get away? And how does his past influence the man he is on Earth? Find out in this astonishing issue full of action, character, and heart.

It’s a monumental feat to reinvent a classic character like Superman without feeling cliché, but Jason Aaron breathes life into this new version of the Man of Steel. Aaron manages to reimagine Superman in the modern era while still capturing the essence of his character. One thing this issue really focuses on is the clever way Aaron has twisted these characters while still staying true to their nature. The dichotomy of Clark and Superman is ingeniously conveyed in this new version through Lois’s viewpoint. Lois notes that the Absolute Superman is timid and shy, yet strong and commanding when needed. It’s a brilliant way to play with the character without the alter ego aspect and shows that Clark and Superman have always just been Kal-El. It reminds me of my favorite Superman story, Superman: Up in the Sky by Tom King. The other changes to this character also capture the essence of Superman, for example, his environmentalist values resulting from Krypton being destroyed by an alien-adjacent climate change makes perfect sense. This version reflecting an immigrant and working-class story also makes sense and aligns with the values at the core of Superman’s character. I know some fans were worried that this would just be a “dark” or “edgy” version of Superman, especially considering Aaron’s time on Action Comics, but this version of the character is surprisingly original and current. Aaron’s twist on Lois Lane is also perfect, and the incorporation of her writing was a genius touch. The pacing of this issue is perfect, with a slow-burn feeling that still keeps the reader engaged. I also appreciate that we got to see some of Superman’s key players in new roles but not all of them show up in this first issue, so the excitement for others still builds. Of the three Absolute Universe books that have been released, this is by far my favorite.

The world building is expanded upon by the incredible art by Rafa Sandoval and colors by Ulises Arreola. 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 sand-stone 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.