Since Superman #23 features an antagonist who can warp time, it’s only a matter of time until certain events repeat themselves or tantalizing hints about the future are dropped. Both happen within a short space of time, as Lois Lane now finds herself in the same position that her husband was two issues ago: face to face with the Time Trapper. How will she react when faced with the same choice he offered Superman?
This issue serves as a mirror to Superman #20, but also as a way for Joshua Williamson to showcase how Lois and Clark handle a crisis. With Clark, he tries reason, but whatever decision he makes he’ll stand by it. With Lois, her reporter’s instinct will kick in – she’s always trying to figure out the truth, no matter what. But as she previously admitted, having Superman’s powers caused her to be cocky…and it results in a shocking moment that spreads shockwaves through the the rest of the issue.
It’s also one of many moments that is meant to set up future issues. And there’s a lot of moments, including hints that Lex Luthor may be returning to his villainous nature, Superwoman gaining her first archnemesis, the return of another Superman foe, and even picking up on a loose plot thread from the DC All-In Special. To Williamson’s credit, he structures it in a way that unfolds naturally, but it still feels like a bit of narrative pileup considering how self-contained previous issues have been.
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Opinions might vary on the story, but I sincerely doubt that anyone will have any issues with Dan Mora’s artwork. Believe it or not, Mora refuses to slow down when it comes to the blockbuster level set pieces; a two-page sequence features the Superman family battling Radiant’s forces, shattering steel and glass in their wake. Another panel features an enraged Superman delivering a Dragon Ball Z-level volley of punches to the Time Trapper’s face. What makes it truly frightening is the Man of Steel’s glowing red eyes.
Mora’s pièce de résistance comes in the opening pages, where Lois and the Time Trapper are floating outside of time. Alejandro Sanchez uses a pale shade of purple for the background, making it feel like they’re the only ones who are moving; everything from Jimmy Olsen taking a snapshot to Radiant and Superman locked in battle is frozen in place. Sanchez’s colors also play a role in Superman’s “rage” mode, seeping into Ariana Maher’s lettering and turning it blood red, which is a very unsettling sight for a Superman comic.
Superman #23 overcomes a pileup of plot points with a shocking late-issue twist, not to mention some intense fight scenes. As the book barrels toward the “Summer of Superman”, there’s a lot to take in – but it’s pretty clear that DC is going all-in on the Man of Steel this year.
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