In an exclusive interview with AIPT Comics, acclaimed author Jason Aaron spoke at length about his latest project, Absolute Superman. Known throughout the comics world for his dynamic storytelling, Aaron brings a fresh and bold take on the beloved character of Superman. Reflecting on this new journey and paying homage to the legacy of creators Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, we offer insight into the themes, character dynamics, and challenges of creating a Superman that resonates with today’s audiences. shared.
Courtesy of DC Comics.
Aaron had previously written a few articles for Action Comics that featured a darker take on Superman, but the experience of working on a completely dedicated series was both exhilarating and daunting. He said it was.
“I’ve been doing this work for almost 20 years now, but there are still moments when my inner child gets very, very excited and feels lucky when it comes to writing comics,” he said.
His approach to the absolute Superman is both to capture the essence of Superman and to reimagine him for modern times.
“For me, it’s about creating a Superman that speaks to 2024, and looking at it through that lens and asking myself, ‘If I were creating this character now, what would I change or do differently?’ That’s it,” Aaron said.
One of the unique aspects of Aaron’s take on Superman is the isolated and uncertain nature of this character in the Absolute Universe. Unlike standard DC continuity, this Superman has no traditional supporting characters and no Robin, Nightwing, or Supergirl to lean on. Even familiar settings like Metropolis and the Daily Planet are noticeably absent.
Instead, Aaron’s Superman is “very lonely and lonely,” allowing readers to experience a darker, edgier world where superheroes don’t have the comforts of family or community. Aaron sees this as a way to “shake up the balance of power and the landscape of the planet.”
One of the most striking elements of Absolute Superman is Aaron’s emphasis on the planet Krypton and its influence on Superman’s identity. In this series, Krypton is more than a distant memory or a symbol of loss. It plays an active role in shaping who this Superman is and the choices he makes on Earth.
As Aaron explained, “I like the idea of giving him more of an immigrant identity, rather than just a ghostly image of Krypton.” This approach gives the character Kryptonian identity. ‘s tradition is evident, giving readers an intimate glimpse into Superman’s struggle between two worlds.
Aaron also talked about the challenge of pacing Superman’s origin story in a way that felt intentional and fresh. Unlike Brian Michael Bendis’ slow approach in Ultimate Spider-Man, Aaron’s Superman wears his iconic costume in the first issue but remains “not fully formed” . His powers, mission, and understanding of Earth evolve over time, reflecting a Superman still finding his place in a complex world.
Courtesy of DC Comics.
Working within the Absolute Universe has given Aaron unprecedented creative freedom. Aaron enjoys teaming up with fellow writers such as Scott Snyder and Kelly Thompson to collaborate and build worlds. In contrast to Marvel’s more structured approach to the Ultimate Universe in the past, Absolute Superman “allows us to pick and choose from DC continuity” and builds on the weight of decades of backstory. He said that it is now possible to create your own universe without feeling overwhelmed.
This freedom has led to new interpretations of iconic characters such as Wonder Woman and Batman, each reimagined with unique characteristics and featuring a younger, more powerful Batman and a Wonder Woman not born in paradise. And in Superman’s case, he’s got a gritty new suit. .
Illustrated by Rafa Sandoval, Absolute Superman promises a visual feast consistent with Aaron’s vision of a grittier, more complex Superman.
“Rafa’s first submission was… Superman standing in a field wearing this dusty, sunstone-like textured cape,” Aaron said. “It was an image we’ve seen over and over again, but it had a darkness and grit that very much summed up who he was.” Not a hero. He is a man struggling with the shadows within himself and around him.
Provided by: DC Comics
Provided by: DC Comics
Provided by: DC Comics
With Absolute Superman, Jason Aaron creates a Man of Steel that is both undeniably familiar and strikingly new. This story not only updates the hero for modern audiences, but also redefines what Superman means today for fans old and new.
Aaron says: “People seem to be looking for fresh takes on characters they know. Stories that still feel different, new and relevant.”
Absolute Superman is poised to be just that, a thrilling return to the Man of Steel, and more than that, a testament to Aaron’s timeless talent for reinvention.
