“House of Brainiac” reaches its second chapter in Superman #13 this week, and Superman has quite a road ahead of him. With most of his best allies captured by Brainiac, Superman has few options to get them back and stop Brainiac. Who better to fight Brainiac and his army of Czarnians than the main man himself, Lobo? That’s right—it’s a Lobo and Superman team-up issue!
Superman #13 opens outside a Coastal City bar where folks are clearing out. Lobo has entered a Green Lantern-themed bar, and he wants a drink pronto, but before he can get his hands on one, Superman shows up, and he’s not playing nice. The trope of characters fighting due to a misunderstanding is used, but it works since Superman isn’t holding back. Writer Joshua Williamson pushes Superman to a new emotional limit, and we see his temper flare up as he’s in a rush. Of course, he knows Lobo can take the punishment, but it’s neat to see Superman go off-script and tilt on Lobo.
It also helps Rafa Sandoval draw some of the most detailed art you’ll see all week. Sandoval and Alejandro Sanchez crush on the art in this issue, from the opening fight scene to the awesome space motorcycle designs. Brainiac continues to look scary as heck, too, with a decidedly cool sci-fi feel due to the purples and greens. The details on these motorcycles are something else, and this scene has cool effects, from Superman’s shield mask to the various Czarnians’ looks.
I don’t think Lobo knows how hard Superman is going to go here.
Credit: DC Comics
This issue feels faster in pace and has more plot progression than the last issue. That’s thanks to a key scene on Brainiac’s ship, as we begin to understand what is going on with him. He’s on a mission, but he’s also sick. A nice check-in with key Superman allies also helps establish their temperament and how they might help from inside the villain’s den.
Lex gets some time on the page too, although his chat with Brainiac is to be expected. What isn’t to be expected is the cliffhanger, that reminds us all of Superman’s allies are very tiny.
On the reverse side, Williamson does some interesting things with Lobo. Sometimes, he can come off as one-note, but here, he’s got a splash of humanity via some sentimental moments. It’s also interesting to see how he notices Superman’s rage, speaking as a character who usually rages out himself. One can see how Lobo and Superman will bond on this adventure, especially since they can go toe-to-toe with heavyweights.
Superman #13 is an even better issue than part 1 of “House of Brainiac,” with plenty of action, compelling character moments, and plot progression. “House of Brainiac” delivers one of the year’s best and most inventive action comics.
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