Absolute Superman #4

Recap
SUPERMAN MEETS THE MYSTERIOUS OMEGA MEN! Superman is on the run, pursued across the globe by armed Peacemakers and Lazarus Corp's top field agent, Lois Lane. Now a new force joins the chase, but are the mysterious Omega Men friends or foes for Kal-El?
Review
Absolute Superman continues to be the best comic series published in recent years. Absolute Superman #4 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, with themes that are relevant to our current political climate but remain true to the Man of Steel. Following the Lazarus Corporation’s attack in Brazil, Agent Lois Lane is set on finding the Superman. After traveling across the world interviewing the people he has protected, she finds herself in Pakistan. But her mission isn’t so simple, as the freedom fighters known as the Omega Men are also looking for Superman. Will Lois Lane find Superman without any problems? And who are the mysterious Omega Men? Find out in this astonishing issue full of action, character, and heart.
Holy shit. Excuse my language but holy shit this series is fantastic. It’s really 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, which 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 page and into our real lives. Superman is the hero we need today. This issue delves a little more into this new world, and Aaron’s world-building is unmatched. The way that Aaron has twisted the roles of the characters we love is so interesting. This issue mainly focuses on Agent Lois Lane. This Lois Lane is phenomenal, with the same passion and grit that Lois should embody but a grittier military overtone. While I love what Joshua Williamson is doing with Superwoman, Agent Lois Lane is definitely the better variant. Either way, this is the year of Lois Lane and that makes me so happy. The pacing of this issue is perfect, with a slow-burn feeling that still keeps the reader engaged. I also appreciate that we are getting introduced to other Superman key players like Jimmy Olsen each issue, it feels like a treat for the reader each month. Of the three Absolute Universe books that have been released, this is by far my favorite.
The world building in this issue 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.
Final Thoughts
This creative team is firing on all cylinders and producing one of the best series to come out of DC Comics. Absolute Superman #4 absolutely delivers on all fronts- with a captivating story, a fresh perspective, and breath-taking art. Aaron’s narrative is strong, emotional, and filled with timeless themes of identity and heroism. Sandoval’s artwork complements this storytelling perfectly, with a kinetic, cinematic style that makes the action and emotion feel larger than life. If you’re not reading Absolute Superman, you are missing out.
Absolute Superman #4: The Hero We Need Now
- Writing - 10/1010/10
- Storyline - 10/1010/10
- Art - 10/1010/10
- Color - 10/1010/10
- Cover Art - 10/1010/10