Absolute Superman #1

The Absolute series continues today with the release of Absolute Superman #1. So far Absolute Batman holds the crown for best comic in the series, but will it be dethroned today? Well, if anyone could do it, it would be the man with no weaknesses. This might sound like every other Superman story, do not be mistaken as this is a very original peace which just pays a homage to the Superman story we know and love.

In Nerdy Nook fashion this review will be completely spoiler free and be our honest opinion, no matter how harsh that may seem at times. With that, let’s get into the Absolute Superman #1 Review.

---

The Review

Image by DC Comics

Absolute Superman #1, starts on the planet of Krypton, 9 million lightyears away from earth, before its destruction. Engineer Jor-El tries to warn Kryptonians of Krypton’s impending doom but is quickly shut down, this theory is of course proved to be correct leaving Kal-El’s mother and father no choice but to abandon their son (or so I assume, as this is something yet to be explored). 

Let me start by saying, although this story is completely unique from anything we have had before from Superman comics, something felt a bit samey. His parents were by no means respected by the governors of Krypton nor were they a part of any operations they had going on. Instead, Kal-El’s mother is a mechanic, his father an engineer, working class kind of people, but that does not change the pride or love they have for their planet and humanity, the same thing which contributed to their decision to send their child to earth in other media – this is not necessarily a bad take on this universe, it just felt used which is strange to say about the unique take the Absolute universe offers.

Though this pilot serves as a prologue to the Absolute Superman comics, we get a deep dive into the main story arc showing us exactly how different this universe is from the cannon. I found myself questioning Superman’s morality while reading this, his intentions are of course good but the lengths he goes too seem much more extreme than before, maybe this is due to him being raised on Krypton rather than Earth giving him less compassion for Earthlings.

Image by DC Comics

Absolute Superman #1 is not short of a gripping story. While othering a deep dive into who this superman is, this comic introduces a complex and interesting story – something which Absolute Wonder Woman seemed to lack. There is still much to learn about this superman’s origin story, when and how did he make his way to Earth? What exactly is his perhaps here? I have no doubt this will be explored in later issues and give us a satisfying explanation .

The art in this comic is some of the best art we have seen in the Absolute series so far, it looks truly beautiful and fantastical and yet somehow dark and gory – the scenes on Krypton feel quite literally out of this world, plus Krypto(Superdog) making an appearance melted my heart as a proud doggo dad. Lastly, since I mentioned my first thoughts of the Absolute Logo’s before, this one looks incredible and super iconic.

There is really not much else I can say to critique this comic. It was almost perfect, though Absolute Batman #1 might still hold the record in this series and best comics I have read this year, Absolute Superman is gearing up for something special I am there for it! It has been many years since I have read a Superman comic, reading this was a great choice and has really re-sparked my love for this character.

Image by DC Comics

Absolute Superman #1 gives an excellent look into the corruption of the Kryptonian government and life on Krypton as a working class family. Issue 1 left on a unexpected hangover with a familiar character which can only lead to a unique and entertaining narrative in the next issue – I cannot wait for Absolute Superman #2 to continue this incredible story.

This comic is visually stunning, interesting and makes some very bold choices regarding this iconic hero, but everyone of those choices is well received. Absolute Superman 1 holds up to the standards set by Absolute Batman #1 without a doubt!

Let us know your thoughts on the Absolute series so far in the comment section! Is this Superman really the perfect addition to the series? Is there anything you would’ve liked to see done differently? Whatever your thoughts, I would love to know.

See also: Flash vs Superman

• ShareCopied to clipboard
• X
• Facebook