Action Comics #1008: I’ve Been Playing This Aaaaall Wrong

‘Leviathan Rises’ continues as Waller and others continue defending against attacks from all sides, but where is Superman in all this?

I actively try to maintain a positive approach in not just my reviews, but also simply reading each comic as a fan. With that consideration, let’s start with what this issue did right, because there are actually a few things. Epting’s illustrations are consistently among the best available at DC and Brad Anderson’s colors have been iconic. Luckily, this issue is no exception. Though there is little to work with, the artistic team manages to deliver a visually great experience overall. The letters from Josh Reed are also exceptional, and considering the nature of the issue, are worthy of praise.

The problem unfortunately lies in the writing. Bendis seems to have fallen prey to the intricacies of his own brand of storytelling. As readers, we find ourselves starting back at square one with another long-winded mystery, but the Red Cloud mystery still hasn’t really unraveled yet either. Her story continues even in this new arc, conflating the narratives Bendis is trying to establish.

There are many, many questions that continue to pop up throughout the issue, but with each new one I find myself caring less about all of the other still-unanswered questions in the story. At some point, it feels like the web of mysteries Bendis is weaving will simply collapse under its own weight. This is unfortunate too, because there is a lot of great potential with what this team is doing both in terms of the general story and the direction of the character.

But this issue is evidence that change is necessary.

In the meantime, we will continue pressing onward with ‘Leviathan Rises’ as Waller finally catches up with Superman to meet this danger head on. Hopefully better things are on the horizon.