I’m going to come clean: I haven’t read a single issue of this series save for dabbling in issue #1. Since this is a new story arc I assume I can jump on board, but even if I can, is it good?
So what’s it about?
The official summary reads:
“SUPER WOMEN” part one! In this story tying in to “Superman Reborn Aftermath,” Lois Lane and Lana Lang find themselves reunited at last! Along with the Man of Steel, their reunion is cut short by the return of Cannon and Saber, who arrive to wreak havoc on the newly restored Metropolis. The mantle of Superwoman will be decided in this debut chapter of “Super Women”!
Why does this book matter?
If you’re like me, you’re tempted to read every Superman-family book on the stands due to the impending crossover event. This event will more then likely involve these characters as Mr. Oz is involved with the Watchmen button. That makes Superwoman aka Lana Lang all the more important.
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
That looks painful.
This issue is split up between Captain Sawyer and Atomic Skull’s recent case and Superman dealing with Superwoman’s loss of powers. The issue opens with the latter revelation and writer K. Perkins keeps the dialogue fresh and natural between all parties. The Sawyer/Atomic Skull dynamic is the most intriguing as she’s very hard on him and he pushes back though he only wants to do good. This issue also delves into what it would be like to have super powers and then be forced back to your previous average human self. Lana can’t deal, and Perkins makes that quite clear. This evolves into a major conversation between Superman and Lana about heroes and how we don’t need powers to be one.
The art by Stephen Segovia is solid, dynamic, and well composed. The simplest panel of characters talking feels dynamic due to the placement of characters and their emotions being easily read. I particularly like how Atomic Skull looks, with a purple cosmic/Ghost Rider thing going on. There’s a mighty fine full page spread that spills onto the second page of Lana and Superman flying over a city that adores Superwoman too. A fun use of blur is also used to showcase the speed at which Superman can throw a car. Nice touch.
What a hard ass.
It can’t be perfect can it?
The issue ends with the reader unsure where it could go from here. The sentiment of being a hero, even without powers, is certainly an understandable one, but how Lana moves on from here is confusing. Superman and Lana speak obtusely and at one point she even says to Superman, “No, that’s not entirely vague at all…” Seriously, she’s right! As far as first issues in an arc go, I wasn’t pumped for the next issue, and I was also unsure what we’re in for. That left me lukewarm.
Is It Good?
Certainly a well-crafted issue with some fun action, sharp visuals, and a character at odds with an internal conflict, but you’re going to be left lukewarm as to where this arc goes from here.
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