It has all led to this as Superman and the forces of The Truth are up against Bendix smack-dab in Bendix and Jay’s nation of Gamorra. Crafted by Tom Taylor and Cian Tormey, the series has been nothing short of addictive, but can it stick the climactic landing? The heroes were already getting an advantage, but in the last pages of Superman: Son of Kal-El, Bendix did the unthinkable and weaponized Superman’s lover’s mother. You don’t mess with family!
As far as trials to be beaten and bad guys thwarted, this issue gets the job done. It effectively closes the door on Bendix while not making it easy for our heroes to beat him. It’s a team effort, to be sure, though, so don’t expect Superman to necessarily save the day every step of the way. From Jay holding off his mom so Superman can save the scientists to Wink being a major asset in accomplishing the goal of toppling Bendix, this issue has major team vibes.
As far as relationships are concerned, a lot of progress is made too. Expect some finality to Bendix and Lex Luthor, for instance, and Jay and Superman also get a moment together. The preview literally gives it away, but the location of the smooch and its openness are as important as the kiss itself.
This issue doesn’t forget Superman is the title character, however. Taylor and Tormey give Superman a major moment near the end of the issue, which further shows Jon is more about saving every life than any hero possibly ever. Throw in an interesting wrinkle concerning Superman’s powers when he does save an entire nation, and you have yourself a powerful scene that stays true to the character and sets up a mystery to be resolved in the future.
Quickly, Superman!
Credit: DC Comics
Tormey draws a stellar issue with many great-looking characters, superhero skintight outfits, and well-drawn vistas. The colors by Federico Blee and Matt Herms give a good-looking sheen to costumes with shadow work appropriately, adding a sense of depth and drama. In one panel, we see Superman lifting a rock in the background, Wink in the foreground, and the shadows on Superman’s body add volume while the light peeking on Wink’s face creates a sense of dynamic lighting amongst the rubble floating around and smoke too. Tormey does a great job with technological elements, like the ductwork above the enslaved drones who control the supes in one scene or the mechanism Bendix is plugged into. Extra props for giving Robin an iconic slap that’ll give fans a chuckle.
While it takes a team to beat Bendix, the stakes never feel too dangerous or high while reading this issue. Jay is somewhat in peril, but it’s brief, and there isn’t enough on the page to make you worry his life is in danger. Superman’s quick thinking is what ends up stopping Bendix at every turn, but it’s almost too easy. It’s still entertaining, but for a climax, the stakes could have felt higher.
Superman: Son of Kal-El #15 closes the door on Bendix for now, in an action-packed issue that feels like a team book. It’s a good ending because it wraps nearly everything up while giving Superman a romantic moment too.
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