Action Comics #1057: It’s the Little Things

Action Comics #1057 highlights the best aspects of Superman in an issue that combines small moments of the legacy character and introduces new adversaries with exciting potential. It’s nothing short of awesome and a great time to jump into the series.

The issue begins with Superman checking on an ex-con named Glen. It’s reminiscent of the classic American Photo of “Lunch atop a Skyscraper,” and it sets the tone for what this issue is about. The human aspects of Superman are very much at the forefront and while there is limited action, the personal moments and conflicts between Clark and the mysterious interviewee for Daily Planet remind readers the Kryptonian will always be human.

I will admit, I have not always been the biggest fan of Superman but the more I have learned about the character and what makes him special, the more I understand the appeal. I mention this because writer Phillip Kennedy Johnson (who obviously is more aware of what makes the Man of Steel tick than I do) has crafted a story where even an on the fence fan such as myself can enjoy.

The issue is all about conversations between Superman/Clark Kent and the duality of how the issue begins and ends is incredibly well done. While I know Johnson has been writing Superman for more than several issues, this story had me excited to see where he plans to go next.

Rafa Sandoval (artist) and Matt Herms (colorist) lend their skills to the issue in some amazing ways. Sandoval’s panel designs are intimate and epic when they need to be and I couldn’t help but feel the energy of exciting lifting off of the pages. This is matched by Herms’ colors. The “whoosh” of the reds and exciting colors throughout all make for such great combinations to be entertained in both word and art.

This stuffed issue includes the main story line and two bonus stories. Dan Jurgens (writer), Lee Weeks (artist) and Elizabeth Breitweiser (color) lend their skill to “Home Again” part seven—an exciting issue that leans into the mythos of the “super” family. It’s an entertaining addition, although it might confuse some given where the story continues. Additionally, there is the story “Super Is as Super Does,” written by Magdalene Visaggio, with art by Matthew Clark and art by Matt Herms. It’s a Superboy focused story and while the main story of this issue takes most of the spotlight, this smaller scale story still makes for a great bonus story.