Absolute Superman #10 Review

Another week, another Absolute comic to add to the collection, and this time it’s the latest instalment of Absolute Superman, Issue #10. The series so far has demonstrated relentless action, in-depth storylines and even teased a collaborative universe and super squad, but this issue takes the series to new heights. As you would imagine, I have a lot of thoughts. So, let’s move on to our Absolute Superman #10 review.

In Nerdy Nook fashion, this review will be relatively spoiler free, although we recommend you read the previous issue before continuing.

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The Review

Image by DC Comics

Last issue, we saw Superman team up with the Omega Men to fight the Peacemakers, only to realise that his and the Omega Men do not fit as well as he first thought. Then, in a turn of events, Lois Lane captured Jimmy Olsen for interrogation to find out more about Superman for Lazarus Corp. In Absolute Superman #10, it’s all action as Superman takes on Lazarus Corp, though things are never quite that easy.

I was already loving every single issue of this series, but this one really shines above the rest. Just when you thought that you knew everything that Absolute Superman has to offer, the brilliant Jason Aaron deals out a new set of cards unlike anything we’ve seen before. There are some intense moments you really feel Superman’s anger, and really believe he might just cross that boundary and kill to do right by his new home.

The thing that makes this issue so unique is having Ra’s Al Ghul as the main villain. Of course, Ra’s is already quite an iconic character, he has a legacy and even a fandom amongst comic fans, but that is usually in Batman’s collective. What an impact he makes in a Superman comic though. He is much more terrifying than Lex Luthor has ever been, and the fact he wants Superman on his side makes for such a unique spin. I am sure Superman will not fall for this, or at least not for very long, but if any many could use those powers for evil it would absolutely be this worlds Ra’s Al Ghul.

The end of this issue had me audibly gasping, and further demonstrated how unique of a story Absolute Superman and all the other Absolute comics could have.

Image by DC Comics

So much happened in Absolute Superman #10 that really expanded the universe and Superman’s backstory. From a few flashbacks, to the question of morality, this issue was full of character building.

Once again, I cannot praise Rafa Sandoval’s artwork and Ulises Arreola’s colouring enough. Every panel is as beautiful as the last. So much detail, such much life, just the perfect duo to really bring this story to life. Anytime Brainiac is there, the panels almost switch to a horror genre with a dark and eerie tone to them, then when we are back on Krypton in a flashback, you are completely transported out of this world. The artwork that stands out the most though is when Superman is being, well, Superman. Everything suddenly feels so epic and heroic.

The Absolute comics have a good opportunity to tell us a unique story we could have possibly never imagined. Though all the characters and references might be pleasing for long-time fans, Scott Snyder is creating something so fresh and new with leading the Absolute universe – there has never been a better time to get into comic books. I believe this series really demonstrates (and so perfectly too) the length and detail of storytelling comic books have to offer to an older audience. There is a certain misconception that comic books are for children, but series like this show us that this could not be any further from that – the only thing that disappoints me is how long I will have to wait to share this exceptional series with my daughter.

Image by DC Comics

Absolute Superman #10 is undoubtedly the best issue to release in not just Absolute Superman but the entire Absolute universe. The storyline, the beautiful artwork and Jason Aaron’s clever use of iconic characters to create a unique and gripping world is truly inspiring. We expect the next issue will not be as explosive, but will surely be just as exceptional.

What are your thoughts on Absolute Superman #10? Whatever your thoughts and feelings, share them with us in the comment section of this article. Until next time, thanks for reading!

See also: Previous issue review

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