If you’ve been biding your time to jump on Absolute Superman, now is your chance, as issue #18 kicks off a new story arc. That’s not all; it also introduces a new Absolute character, which should be obvious to DC Comics fans from the cover art. One of the ongoing elements of the Absolute line that works so well is fairly simple: How can familiar elements be twisted and tainted to be even darker? In the case of Ra’s Al Ghul in Absolute Superman #18, leave your expectations at the door!
If you’re interested in Absolute Universe lore, Absolute Superman #18 is a must-read. It opens 3,000 years prior to current events in ancient Egypt. These scenes reveal the life of a boy named Teth-Adam, who stood up for his fellow slaves and suffered greatly. More importantly, someone is foretold way back then, adding a certain level of mystique to a character. Tucked away in this flashback is a bona fide surprise that further entwines what we know about Superman villains in this universe.
Outside of the flashback, writer Jason Aaron shows us what our main trio of heroes is up to. Superman has a new pet, Lois is up to no good, and Jimmy can’t seem to shake being on the lower side of the totem pole. All of these scenes help build the issue’s overall density, making it feel well worth the price of admission.
I wonder who that could be.
Credit: DC Comics
The second half of the issue features a major confrontation involving Ra’s Al Ghul. There’s also a new character popping up in a super suit, and some good superpowered combat. That latter character is definitely a nod to a big Superman character, although it’s unclear if it’s more than just a reference.
It sounds like a lot of characters are featured in this issue outside the lead, and, true, Superman isn’t used much, but he does make a great entrance thanks to Rafa Sandoval. The final full-page splash reveal is epic in its use of light and lack thereof. It bookends well with the flashback. Ultimately, Superman ends up feeling a bit like a backseat driver in an issue heavy on Shazam introductions and villains like Talia and Ra’s taking up a lot of the oxygen. That’s not bad per se for future conflicts, but it continues a trend where Superman is the least interesting character in his own book.
Outside of great splash pages, Sandoval wows with a desert scene with Teth-Adam and finer details in fantastical scenes. Seeing Superman’s suit form from crystals in his barn is quite cool, for instance, and Talia’s electric sword is always worth a good beat of drama.
Absolute Superman #18 is a confident start to a new arc that leans hard into mythology, reinvention, and long-game storytelling. The issue thrives on its bold reimagining of familiar DC elements and a dense narrative that rewards attention, even if it occasionally pushes Superman into the background. With strong visuals and intriguing new pieces on the board, this chapter sets the stage for something much bigger to come.
You must be logged in to post a comment.