The year is coming to an end, and Mark Waid’s weekly “Phantom” story in Action Comics is coming to an end. So how does Action Comics #1081 by Wade and Clayton Henry end? It’s… a little complicated. The setup for this issue is excellent, with Xadu, the self-proclaimed “Phantom King,” escaping from the Phantom Zone and gathering the remaining refugees to defeat Superman. Complicating matters is Mon-El, who is dancing on the brink of death…and his only salvation lies in the Zone.
This would have been a great finale, but Wade’s script moves the plot points through quickly like a checklist. Mon-El is sent back to the zone. The prisoners are tricked back into the zone. Repairs will be made. It feels like a bit of a letdown compared to previous issues, which kept up a weekly pace while building up and resolving plot points. I think Wade has a full stomach thanks to his work on Justice League Unlimited and Batman & Robin: Year One.
While the story in Action Comics #1081 may be a little lackluster, the artwork by Henry continues to be a gift. Henry is in charge of each member of the Superman family, as well as a collection of miscellaneous villains from the Phantom Zone. The best contrast is between Superman and Xadu. The Man of Steel stands bravely and proud in his trademark red and blue costume, while the Phantom King is bandaged and his head surrounded by flames.
Credit: DC Comics
A better conclusion comes from Supergirl’s backup by Mariko Tamaki and Skylar Partridge. Not only does Supergirl finally complete the mission, but we also find out what happened to her allies and why Superman chose her for this mission. Tamaki has done great work on Supergirl before, but this backup story reminded us of what makes Kara Zor-El so unique. Combined with Patridge’s amazing artwork, I’m glad the story ends with the promise of more adventures for Superman.
All in all, Action Comics #1081 is a bit of a mixed bag. Even though it feels rushed to the end, it’s still a gorgeous looking book. Still, I recommend reading the story “Phantom”. Not only does Phantom Zone actually do something new, but it also features some classic Superman action. When it comes to the best Superman/Superstars stories, Phantoms rivals House of Brainiac and Challenge to the Stars.
Action Comics #1081 is available wherever comics are sold.
“Action Comics” #1081 is a quiet end to the “Phantom” storyline
Action Comics #1081
All in all, Action Comics #1081 is a bit of a mixed bag. Even though it feels rushed to the end, it’s still a gorgeous looking book.
Henry continues to create amazing Superman artwork.
Tamaki and Patridge round out Supergirl’s backup in style!
We do some really interesting things in Phantom Zone.
The ending feels rushed.
Wade’s work in previous installments of the series and other DC films feels like night and day compared to this final installment.
