Absolute Superman #5 Review

Here we are again, another Wednesday, another horde of new comics to add to the collection. This week brought us Absolute Superman #5, the first arcs finale. After the greatness that was last issue, there was a certain amount of high hopes for this one but will it live up to the hype this series has been building so far? Lets discuss exactly that in this Absolute Superman #5 review.

In Nerdy Nook fashion, this review will be relatively spoiler free, but make sure you have read through the previous issues before continuing. With that being said, there is a particular moment we must talk about but I will do my best to be as vague as possible.

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The Review

Image by DC Comics

In Absolute Superman #5 we find ourselves on Krypton to final see its demise, and in present time where earth is on the brink of another world war. Kal-El, angry, is on a mission to fight for the planet he swore to protect. But how can he fight for others when there is a much darker battle going on within himself?

Absolute Superman #5 in many ways, surprised me. There was an implication made many issues ago, one that changed quite literally everything. However, after reading Absolute Superman #5, it would seem like that implication might have been misleading. If you would rather go in blind, skip to the next paragraph now, I would not want to spoil this for anyone so this is your only warning! I am of course talking about the implication of Jor-El and Lara, the parents of Superman, leaving Krypton with Kal-El and making their way to Earth. It seemed like such a sure thing and honestly opened up so many interesting opportunities, but now we are once again left unsure whether or not they made it – it was so hard to not be upset by this but I have faith in Jason Aarons bigger picture.

Despite feeling a slight feeling of frustration, this issue is another solid instalment. You cannot judge something based on your assumptions but instead must judge off of expectations and this issue exceeded every single one of mine. One thing in particular I loved about Absolute Superman #5 was the deep dive into the end of Krypton. It was very clear we would see the planet again before this first arc was over, I just did not expect this much depth and detail to be given to us, and in such a beautiful way.

I find myself praising artist Rafa Sandoval and colourist Ulises Arreola with every issue of Absolute Superman, that is of course for good reason. Every panel is truly stunning, especially on Krypton, especially in this issue. The story of all those Kryptonians who lost their lives is unbelievably sad, but its captured in such a beautiful way.

Image by DC Comics

The story of Absolute Superman #5 does not full short of brilliant. This universes Superman toes a fine line sometimes and often seems as though he will go over the top, seeing the inner battle and his restraint is something I really adore and this issue captured that perfectly – you can clearly see how easily this Superman might flip and be such a dangerous foe for humanity if he decided to do so and that is a powerful thing.

Since this was the finale in the first arc ‘Last Dust of Krypton’, I was sure we would have a clearer idea about certain stuff – primarily, is Lois Lane a friend or foe? We did not, but I think that is because even Lois is undecided herself.

At its core, the first arc was Absolute Superman‘s origin story and that story was told so well and beautifully. This Superman is a complex character with so much to offer, I have no doubt that any and every question we have about the series will be answered in a tasteful and satisfying way.

Image by DC Comics

Absolute Superman #5 continues to add a complex narrative while concluding its first arc in a shocking yet incredible way. We cannot recommend this comic enough, the Absolute universe remains one of the strongest on going series in our eyes.

What are your thoughts on Absolute Superman #5 and the first Absolute Superman arc? Whatever your thoughts and feelings, share them with us in the comment section of this article.

See also: Previous issue review

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