The Absolute universe kicked off with excellent first issues of Absolute Batman and Absolute Wonder Woman, but now it’s Superman’s turn. Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval give a new take on Superman with Absolute Superman, keeping the character’s core DNA while making him bigger and better for the modern era. . It’s a tall order, but after reading the first issue, I can see that they are definitely on the right track.
Absolute Superman #1 begins several years ago on Krypton, nine million light years from Earth. The first 12 pages introduce how the star Krypton differs from the main universe. An important element is the symbol that people wear on their chests to indicate their social class. Here, the story embodies Superman’s worldview.
At the bottom of the hierarchy are the unions, which wear the familiar Superman “S” insignia. At the top is the Cleric of the Science League (marked with a K!), marked with a star. Superman seems to have been born into a system that teaches him to be inferior to others, making for an interesting start for a young hero on his own on Earth.
An important detail surrounds Superman’s parents, who are able to avoid class and help others. They are also very intelligent and good with their hands. This is Superman born to be an underdog.
Superman’s mother was a tough mechanic.
Credit: DC Comics
When Superman enters the story, we see him helping people at the bottom of the earth. This issue reveals more about the larger world of this universe, where the hierarchy is evident and the wealthiest people use fascist power to get what they want. This is Superman fighting for the little guy.
As for Superman himself, enough has been revealed to pique your interest. There’s a lot to unravel and build on, from his costume to how he charges, to the tech buddies who talk to him. This tech buddy speaks to Superman via captions, so you can easily play Superman’s lonely self and talk to Superman.
As far as first issues go, this issue explains Superman’s backstory, general purpose, and closest conflicts. One complaint is that it may take a second issue to understand more about his captors and Superman. So much time is spent on the Kryptonian that there isn’t enough time on Superman’s page.
Sandoval and colorist Ulises Arreola ground this story firmly in realistic art. The planet Krypton is, of course, fantastical, but the world of science fiction is brought to life. Strange alien plants, a city surrounded by volcanoes that seem to be flowing with dangerous lava, and technological details bring it all to life. Superman’s appearance has never been more epic, and above all his speed is evident thanks to his speed lines and his effort.
Absolute Superman #1 is another home run for DC Comics’ Absolute line. This first issue opens up the planet Krypton in a whole new way, setting up Superman as the ultimate immigrant underdog. Absolute Superman #1 by Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval is a bold, gritty reimagining of the iconic hero, blending raw loneliness with a modern exploration of Superman’s immigrant heritage. All of which pays homage to his legacy.
Absolute Superman #1 is a bold reimagining of the iconic hero
Absolute superhuman #1
Absolute Superman #1 is another home run for DC Comics’ Absolute line. This first issue opens up the planet Krypton in a whole new way, setting up Superman as the ultimate immigrant underdog. Absolute Superman #1 by Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval is a bold, gritty reimagining of the iconic hero, blending raw loneliness with a modern exploration of Superman’s immigrant heritage. All of which pays homage to his legacy.
Inspired by Krypton
Great visuals throughout
Respecting the past while feeling fresh
With so much time spent on Krypton, Superman will need another issue to be fully fleshed out.
