Action Comics #1080 is the penultimate chapter of the “Phantom” storyline, and it’s a big one. After ravaging Earth, the Phantom Zone escapees used their newfound powers to spread to other planets. Superman races to stop them with Mon-El in tow, while the rest of the Superman Family deals with a variety of dangerous criminals.
It’s these criminals that turn out to be one of the most interesting parts of Action Comics #1080. Especially since Mark Waid and Clayton Henry reveal that not all Kryptonians have just the basic powers given to Superman under yellow. One is a regular magician. The other has pyrokinesis. Yet another giant monster was created using stolen science. These powers and the fugitives’ indifference to others are just another way Wade deepens the Superman mythos.
Action Comics #1080 continues the non-stop action elements from the previous issue. Half of the pages are devoted to battles on other planets. In addition to portraying Superman battling flying Kryptonian monsters, Henry also depicts members of the superfamily and the Justice League teaming up to take down criminals. There’s a great moment where Aquaman takes down Kryptonian criminals, making me even more excited for his solo series. Matt Harms also continues to create gorgeous color art. The planet Thanagar is a shining paradise, and New Korugar is filled with deep blue skies.
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The highlight of this issue is the conversation between Superman and Mon-El. It is shown that living in the Phantom Zone changed Mon, even if it meant saving his life, and in one panel he tells the Man of Steel, “I don’t know what you’re going to do.” There was no chance!” he exclaimed. It’s a surprisingly emotional moment, made even more heartbreaking by the fact that Mon is slipping in and out of reality, which could potentially kill him.
Supergirl’s backup story by Mariko Tamashiro and Skyler Partridge also hurtles towards its conclusion as Kara confronts the global killer. Like Wade and Henry, they emphasize moments of teamwork. Kara convinces her friends that she doesn’t need to be a force of destruction, and with a little help from Power Girl, she acquires a suit that combines her Kryptonian costume with her partner’s golden robe. It’s a strange but compelling moment, and it emphasizes the story’s sci-fi trappings.
Action Comics #1080 begins the “Phantom” storyline, featuring plenty of action and surprisingly emotional moments. No matter how the story ends, this is a great journey, and future Superman writers should look to this work for inspiration.
“Action Comics” #1080 is a study in contrasts
Action Comics #1080
Action Comics #1080 begins the “Phantom” storyline, featuring plenty of action and some surprisingly emotional moments. No matter how the story ends, this is a great journey, and future Superman writers should look to this work for inspiration.
The Phantom Zone escapees have more dangerous powers than Superman, and a lot of story potential.
More action sequences that push the Superman Family and Justice League to their limits.
Wade and Henry deliver emotional and action-packed moments in equal measure.
Supergirl’s backup takes a strange but fascinating turn.
