‘Absolute Superman’ #1 Is An Absolutely Amazing First Issue, Honouring The Past And Forging A New Future For Superman

When reading Absolute Superman #1, my overall first impression of this rather impressive first issue is that writer Jason Aaron has created a beautifully balanced and carefully considered take on the iconic and original superhero. He takes on board both contemporary perspectives and socially relevant issues while also paying homage to Superman’s origins in an issue that I found highly entertaining, gripping and surprising. Sealing the deal on this dramatic and dynamic first issue: Rafa Sandoval’s outstanding art, proving once again why he has become such a must-have artist in recent years.

As well as offering up fresh new narrative spins on what you think you know about Superman, Aaron looks to the past too. Going way back to Action Comics #1 for inspiration. This young Superman is a socially conscious hero working in the shadows to help working men and women across the globe and fighting against rapacious and greedy corporations; in this case, Lazarus Corps. I don’t think it’s any coincidence that this Superman comes to the rescue of a mining community forced to work in absolutely detestable and potentially fatal conditions. Much like he did in his original appearance in the aforementioned Action Comics #1, This Absolute Superman has more in common with Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster’s original vision, much like Grant Morrison’s own take on Superman in the New 52 reboot of 2011. A hero of our times, but one with … dare I say it … socialist tendencies. The supervillains will come, as hinted at in this debut issue, but for now he’s happy to help out wherever he can.

But it’s not just Superman’s M.O. that rings true with the past. There are echoes of his rich legacy throughout this stunning comic book. When Jor-El gets a head injury from radiation burns, his bandage, for example, is reminiscent of the classic late Golden Age/Silver Age Jor-El, who also sported a headband, but for different reasons. 

And speaking of Jor-El, both he and Lara are refreshed as two people crushed by the repressive caste system prevailing on Krypton. A planet suffering from an imminent environmental catastrophe. It is the inclusion of this environmental concern that gives a new take on a familiar origin story with a very contemporary tone. 

But this time round, Jor-El is ignored because of his social status rather than for any other reason. Thanks to their criticism of the ruling elite, he has been expelled to the lower classes where they have no power and no voice. This new lower status is enough for the elite to ignore his warnings. But, the slow revelation of Jor-El and Lara’s life on Krypton is a great narrative boost to this new Superman. This is a story arc in which decompressed storytelling is absolutely the right way to go with the unfolding story. It both develops Superman’s homeworld while informing readers of why this version of Kal-El rages against the machine. Much like his rebellious parents. This won’t be that last wee see of Krypton nor of the rebellious young parents.

Sandoval once again brings his A game to proceedings with a style of art that is fluid, energised and emotive with colourist Ulises Arreloa making each page pop with daring colours that contrast the darker more dangerous world of this Absolute Universe. Raging reds burst through the doom and gloom announcing Superman to the world, while Sandoval’s art, combined with judicious use of speed lines, create a comic that overflows with bombastic action.

Absolute Superman #1 is a must-read issue and a hugely innovative take on a golden oldie. Another one to add to add to your pull-list and it’s out now from DC Comics.