Superman ’78 comes to an end this week, and it’s the big face-off between Brainiac and Superman! Robert Venditti and Wilfredo Torres have done a good job supplying a high-stakes story that suits the Superman: The Movie universe version of Supes. With visuals that depict the characters like their movie counterparts, it’s hard to resist this story as it gives us a sequel to the movie we could only wish for.
This issue opens with Superman trying to save not only Metropolis, which is in the process of being turned tiny by Brainiac, but Superman’s parents who are trapped on Brainiac’s ship. This issue serves as a good climactic battle that plays a similar plot progression as the first film. Superman gets to punch the heck out of Brainiac, but it’s his inability to quit that reigns supreme as far as his powers.
Venditti gets to play up Superman’s hope through a key dialogue exchange between Brainiac and Superman. You’ll root and cheer for Superman throughout this issue. That’s also because there are key cutaways to Lois and other characters (is that the Goonies I saw?) reacting to Metropolis nearing its destruction. It’s a conclusion that feels right for the franchise.
It’s almost like Superman is doing aerobics.
Credit: DC Comics
The only downside to how the story ends here is the lack of Lex Luthor. He’s been a delight throughout the series, but is reduced to a single panel here. He played his part in helping Superman win, of course, but a little bit more of his ego and evil charm would add something to the issue. One could argue the defeat of Brainiac is a bit too simplistic, but that plays to the nostalgic charm of the simpler conclusion.
Torres gets to show off plenty of action, which continues to be depicted as one would see on the big screen. Nothing impossible is rendered and Superman ends up moving in a way as if Reeve himself was doing the actions. The look of the actors is also spot-on as always, with a stand-out moment being Lois hugging Superman.
If you’re looking for a conclusion to Superman ’78 #6 that feels spiritually correct to the movie universe you’ve got it here. The book has a glossy sheen thanks to the art team and a hopeful, triumphant conclusion that’ll put a smile on your face.
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