There’s something comforting about the Absolute universe being familiar but able to tread new ground. Case in point, Superman’s origin in Absolute Superman still utilizes Krypton’s demise, as is seen in Absolute Superman #3, out this week. In tinkering with the death of Krypton, writer Jason Aaron is creating a new Superman with a stronger sense of class injustice. In this way, it’s making a statement, and given the climate of the world today, a superhero immigrant is something we desperately need.
The third issue is entirely devoted to Krypton save for a short scene set six years prior to Superman’s exploits in the present on Earth. This allows us to see a pre-teen Kal-El just as the fall of Krypton is at hand. It’s exciting to wrap your head around a Superman who has memories of Krypton, as well as two badass parents rebelling against the government.
The issue opens focused on Superman as a young boy, totally fine avoiding the science academy so he can be closer to nature. This is partly due to his closeness to his parents, who go on a camping trip in the Krypton wilderness made up of giant crystals and purple desert-like vistas. Aaron does a good job showing why Superman is as rebellious as his parents and capable of carving his own path.
Best parents ever.
Credit: DC Comics
Superman’s parents continue to be deeply interesting and easy to root for. His dad wants to save the Kryptonian people, while his mother can suit up and fight for what is right. They are heroes in their own right, especially since they are rebelling against an overpowering government. They both get to shine and through them, we get a better sense of who Superman is as a person.
Rafa Sandoval continues to do great stuff with the space dust effect of Sueprman’s suit and alien environments and tech. The floating motorcycles are particularly cool, but a larger ship is revealed later, which is impressive. You’ll be uttering, “Wow” more than once.
My only gripe with this issue resides in some Krytpon guards, who have a Judge Dredd vibe. The suits aren’t necessarily a rip-off but are reminiscent, particularly when paired with their judge, jury, and executioner vibe. I could also see folks hoping for more scenes set in the present, but these Krypton scenes do a lot to further our understanding of this take on Superman.
Absolute Superman #3 succeeds in offering a fresh perspective on Superman’s origin, with Jason Aaron crafting a deeply relevant narrative steeped in rebellion and class awareness. Supported by Rafa Sandoval’s breathtaking art, the issue delivers both heart and spectacle.
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