Absolute Superman #12 Review

Another week, another Absolute comic is here to captivate its readers and this time we have Absolute Superman #12. The last issue set up such an interesting and shocking turn of events, I am sure I speak for everyone when I say we’ve been eager to see where this one ends up. There is a lot to talk about, so without haste, lets move into our Absolute Superman #12 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 held hostage by Brainiac at the demands of Ra’s al Ghul. After endless torture and brainwashing, it seems like Brainiac have finally got to the new Son of the Demon. Absolute Superman #12 picks up right where we left off with Superman in the middle of this self conflict as he tries to regain his own sanity before it’s too late.

I don’t like to start these reviews with negatives, however on this occasion, it feels only right to talk about the elephant in the room. I would be lying if I said I was not the tiniest bit disappointed with this issue. It is still a really good read, but it definitely lacks something. I am not sure exactly what that something is but since I have to try and pinpoint, it felt like a missed opportunity. With Superman essentially lost in his own mind, this was the perfect time to explore a more reckless Superman almost evil side which we have not seen in this universe yet – then of course, Absolute Superman could be rocking that black suit for his rebirth in a later issue.

In Absolute Superman #12 we do however get another good look into his first few years on earth, dealing with the loss of his home and family, finding the hero he is destined to be amongst the hatred and that was a beautiful thing to see. It truly felt, well, like Superman. There was even a sweet scene where the people of Smallville praise him as their hero, as the beacon of hope that superman has and always will be.

Image by DC Comics

Once again, Absolute Superman #12 ends on a huge cliff-hanger, but this time feels different. Quite often things feel as though they reach a conclusion quickly, but something big is about to happen – Ra’s al Ghul is a force to be reckoned with and he is undoubtedly bringing the war. One can only hope that all out war prompts Superman to find help from other heroes from the Absolute universe, I know I would love to see the Green Lanterns involved with this conflict, after all Batman and Wonder Woman have their crossover on the war, why not send some backup Superman’s way!

Once again Rafa Sandoval is back and his artwork paired with Ulises Arreola’s colouring proves essential to the Absolute Superman series. Where the previous issue leaned into a more darker tone, Absolute Superman #12 is filled with bright and vibrant panels that perfectly reflect Superman’s journey back towards the light.

Though this Absolute Superman #12 was not the best in the series, it was still a fantastic read and filled me with so much joy, just as a Superman comic should. Unfortunately, the bar had been set so high leading up to this issue, it was never going to be as good but it I feel confident in that this is only the calm before the storm.

Image by DC Comics

Absolute Superman #12 shows us the very essence of this worlds Superman while setting up another compelling story. Though, at times, it felt as though there were some missed opportunities, it is well worth the read for all fans of Superman, old and new.

What are your thoughts on Absolute Superman #12? 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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