My Adventures with Superman #5: Choices

Written by the head writer of the My Adventures with Superman TV series, Josie Campbell, and drawn by Pablo M. Collar, My Adventures with Superman #5 is the penultimate issue of the mini-series that takes place between Season 1 and 2 of the TV show.  Superman and the Amazo robot face off against the ruthless Task Force X and Team 7. With the Amazo badly injured, he can’t control his powers and spirals out of control. Can Superman’s friendship save the Amazo from becoming what he was made for? This issue is full of heart, emotional moments, and incredible action.

I thought the last issue was the most emotional issue, but THIS is the most emotional issue of the series thus far. It really shows why Superman stories are so impactful and full of heart. Writer Josie Campbell really understands who Superman is and the way the Kents have played a massive role in making him human. I am a sucker for a “killer robot does not want to kill” storyline and it works so well to have the theme be becoming more than you were born to be. This issue is emotional, and it reflects the vibe of the TV series so well. I think what is special is the hints to Season 2 in this issue. Without going into spoilers, this issue really has an emotional high point that makes this series feel more serious than it seems at first glance. Although the story and art are more cartoonish and light-hearted, this issue packs on the teary-eyed moments. My Adventures with Superman strikes the perfect balance of humor, action, and emotion.

Artist Pablo M. Collar adds to the whimsy of this series with his anime-inspired art. This issue is filled with action and Collar is clearly inspired by Japanese-style animation as the robots and suits he draws look straight out of a manga. The action in this issue is elevated by Collar’s art, with dynamic poses and stunning laser blasts. I think my only complaint is that Task Force X and Team 7 looks too similar. During the action sequences, it was hard to tell who was who, and some of the mech-suit designs looked like the Amazo. I still am not sure who the villain is. However, this team is designing some of my favorite Superman character designs. I cannot wait to see how this mini-series ends.