Absolute Superman #21: The Age of the Superman

King Shazam does not believe that Absolute Superman is the prophet of the Earth. Does Superman have enough hope in himself not just to save the world but also to save Tenth Adam? Absolute Superman #21 is the epic finale of the King Shazam arc for the multiverse Absolute version of Superman. Written by Jason Aaron and with art by Rafa Sandoval, this issue exposes the world to an ancient evil: King Shazam. Superman must work with an unknown “man of steel” and Hawkman to help defeat King Shazam, who has been trapped for 3,000 years. It’s a clash of the world’s strongest to save the day. Superman brings King Shazam to the moon with the sole purpose of saving him. Will the new age of superheroes come out on top? Or is the Earth doomed to be ruled by King Shazam?  Find out in this issue filled with heart, action, and beautiful narrative insight.

This book was the best line coming out of DC, but I feel like it has been beaten out by larger events. Is the Absolute Universe losing steam? It feels like other events, even minor ones like the Reign of Superboys, have outshined the Absolute Universe issues. I think this arc has been the challenge for Absolute Superman. Jason Aaron’s bold political stance in these pages is still inspiring, but this arc has felt like one fight over 4 issues. 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 that reflects 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 pages of this story and into our real lives. Superman is the hero we need today. Although the overall story has been great, this arc has felt stale.  The damage that Dwayne Johnson did to the DCU is irreparable, and it’s still seen as Black Adam is posed to be a great Superman foe in this story. I was interested to see where King Shazam’s ideology on fighting evil would come in, but this finale felt weak. These last couple of issues have felt like one big fight separated across multiple issues. It makes the overall story feel forgettable when you are reading it month to month. This finale was not very strong, but I am hopeful for the next arc. 

This issue brings back Rafa Sandoval, which is a welcome 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.