Superman: Lex Luthor Special #1

Recap
THE RETURN OF LEX LUTHOR? During the battle of the House of Brainiac, Lex Luthor's memories were wiped clean... but now, after the events of DC All-In Special #1, the world needs Lex to remember his past. There is a key piece of information in Lex's lost memories that could unlock an epic mystery that plagues Superman and the Justice League! But what if Lex doesn't want to remember? Would Superman sacrifice Lex's newfound peace to solve a secret, even if it means the return of Superman's fiercest rival?
Review
During the epic final battle in the House of Brainiac event, Lex Luthor had his memory wiped in his sacrifice to save the world. Since then, he has been team Superman and has been appalled at the actions of his past self. Now he’s enjoying his new life and new romance with Mercy. However, despite his new persona and positive demeanor, is the real Lex Luthor hiding on the inside? This week’s one-shot Superman: Lex Luthor Special #1 follows Lena Luthor and Mercy as they try to help Lex regain his memories. When the Justice League needs the old Lex back to understand Darkseid’s broken timelines, it’s up to Superman to call in the favor. Can the new Lex Luthor get his memories back? And if he does, will he be a force for good? Find out in this thrilling issue by Superman writer Joshua Williamson and artists Eddy Barrows and Eber Ferreira.
This is a fun one-shot that explores the new dynamic between Superman and Lex Luthor. I must admit, I have been enjoying the new positive Lex Luthor, but he has felt a little too one note. Every issue he has been in since he lost his memory has just been him standing around saying “sorry I lost my memory.” I’m happy this issue gets to establish him a little bit more and gives us insight into his childhood. This issue touches on something I have been missing in this new world which is the changed dynamic between Superman and Lex. I think this dynamic could’ve highlighted the almost flipped nature of their relationship, with Superman being the one uneasy about the existence of this Lex. I like that this issue touched on it, but it seems like we might go back to the status quo quickly. I think Williamson has a great way of bringing emotion into his writing, and it’s done so perfectly in this issue as he ties the relationship between Lex and Superman to their childhood. It’s a nice touch that I feel relates to the heart of Superman stories. This is story that fits perfectly in the Superman universe because it is fun, heartwarming, and hopeful.
The art in this issue highlights just how fun this story is. Eddy Barrows and Eber Ferreira did fantastic and managed to create balanced artwork that was distinct yet unique. The art style is classic comic book art and it’s perfect for a classic Superman/Lex Luthor comic. This issue was a full deep dive into the mind of Lex Luthor and the art really highlights that.
Final Thoughts
Superman: Lex Luthor Special #1 is a fantastic deep dive into the mind of Lex Luthor. With creative storytelling and incredible art, this issue is a standout that answers all the questions we’ve been asking.
Superman: Lex Luthor Special #1: Remember Me?
- Writing - 8/108/10
- Storyline - 9/109/10
- Art - 7/107/10
- Color - 7/107/10
- Cover Art - 7/107/10