This is a classic version of Superman written by Phillip Kennedy Johnson. He is the goodie-two-shoes we all know and (mostly) love. There’s a line spoken by Natasha Irons (Steel) about Superman going all Superman that is so on-brand for the character that, even though unintentional, it’s a laugh out loud moment. There’s also a touching storyline with Tracey and her brother John (Metallo) that could be developing into something big. It’s definitely something worth keeping an eye on. And then there’s the cliff hanger ending that gives off future political thriller vibes and maybe a brand-new DC villain?
The issue also features Part 6 of the Louis and Clark prequal arc. Here Superman is on the search for his kidnaped son and finally meets space Barbarella (officially known as Glyanna). This is black suit era Superman so he’s slightly edgier but writer Dan Jurgens keeps it simple. Supes is here for his son, not to play games with a villainess. Through their super connection, can father and son work out a way to communicate with each other despite the barriers between them? Part 3 of Steel: Engineer of Tomorrow is also part of this issue. Written by Dorado Quick, it explains why both the hero Steel and the man John Henry Irons do what they do. A knockoff Metall0 (Amalgam) attacks Steelworks HQ and pushes Steel to his mental breaking point more than his physical one.
The art throughout this book really stands out. The character of Superman is so iconic, doing Supes justice visually is an absolute must. Cyborg Superman always has and always will look cool just be default but Rafa Sandova, Max Raynor, and Matt Herms do a fantastic job of bring him, Supes, and the entire brood of Super guys and gals to life. Throw in tons of great action panels and you have a legitimately great looking comic book. Lee Weeks and Elizabeth Breitweiser bring a more stylized vision to the Lois and Clark tale while Yasmin Flores Montanez and Brad Anderson bring a more cartoonish flair to Steel’s solo story. They all bring continuity to the overall book and all three parts look really good. It’s a testament to just how many ways there are to create compelling looking comics.
Whether it’s fighting a classic foe, saving his son from a space dictator, or stopping some bombs of Baghdad, Superman is that hero. Action Comics #1026 mixes traditional Superman action with political intrigue and corporate espionage. It’s an excellent entry in this long running comic book line with stories that can go in a few different (and hopefully interesting) directions.
Writing – 4 Stars
Art – 4 Stars
Coloring – 4 Stars
Overall – 4 Stars
Written by; Phillip Kennedy Johnson. Dan Jurgens. Dorado Quick
Art by; Rafa Sandova and Max Raynor. Lee Weeks. Yasmin Flores Montanez
Colors by; Matt Herms. Elizabeth Breitweier. Brad Anderson
Letters by; Dave Sharpe. Rob Leigh.
Published by; DC Comics
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- Writer, author, and blogger. Published author of three children's books and also writes for the boy Creators For The Culture. Part-time sneaker head, full time nerd.
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