Absolute Superman #9: Father Box

Superman has joined forces with the Omega Men, but is their violent nature too much for the Kryptonian? Absolute Superman #9 continues the story of a variant Superman set in the Absolute Universe created by Darkseid. Written by Jason Aarons and art by Rafa Sandoval, this issue shows the team-up between Kal-El and the mysterious Omega Men. When an attack from the Lazarus Corp brings the Omega Men back to Pakistan, it’s up to Superman to save the day. But can he learn to work with others? And what will he learn about the nature of humans? Learn all of this and more in this issue filled with heart, action, and beautiful narrative insight from Absolute Superman.

This series is the best thing from DC in a long time. 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, 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. If I had one complaint, Superman was a little too “sad boy” in this issue, and it took me out a bit. But it is interesting to see how other humans help shape him into the “Man of Steel”. I think it’s also really smart how Aaron’s has drop hints at the parallels to present-day American politics. It’s been so entertaining to see, and it feels like readers who have been worried about the current political climate are not alone. This series truly deserves all the flowers it gets.

The worldbuilding 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. 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. This issue is action heavy and the sequences look fantastic. This issue also introduces Fico Ossio to the Absolute Superman creative team, and his art works so well with Sandoval’s. The two balance their styles seamlessly and it creates a cohesive comic. From the very first page, this issue’s art captivates, drawing readers into its world with energy, depth, and breathtaking detail.