There’s lots of punching action in Action Comics #961 which again focuses on the battle between Superman and Doomsday. Written by Dan Jurgens, the comic gives us just enough more than the two titans trading blows to keep it interesting.
The comic since it’s Rebirth relaunch and been building towards something with a mysterious figure watching on, and in this issue we get some movement as far as that as the battle between the Man of Steel and Doomsday actually gets somewhere. It’s the end of the comic, but that just sets up the next one hopefully being a bit of a change of pace.
But it’s the non-punching where Jurgens keeps things interesting. The focus on Superman protecting his family grounds the comic and gives it some emotional heft. Seeing his son wanting to help him adds a bit as well. Throw in Wonder Woman helping out and it all gets rather interesting and helps build a new dynamic between the two characters (that weirdly hasn’t played out in other series like Justice League). There’s also a focus on the aftermath and destruction of Metropolis that adds a lot to the series as well. Things clearly aren’t going back to normal and resetting once they’re off page.
The art by Stephen Segovia, with inks by Art Thibert and colors by Arif Prianto, is solid as usualy. The style enhances the themes that Jurgens is going for. More importantly the action is dynamic and the quieter moments between Superman and his family work well. Key moments are emphasized through the use of panels and there’s some good transition between the action and those moments that comes through in the art. This is just solid Superman art that reminds me a bit of the 90s (minus the mullet).
The Superman team continues to deliver action and excitement and has me interested in Superman for the first time in a very long time. Here’s looking forward to the next issue and see if some of the mystery is finally revealed.
Story: Dan Jurgens Art: Stephen Segovia Ink: Art Thibert Color: Arif Prianto
Story: 7.8 Art: 7.8 Overall: 7.8 Recommendation: Read
DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review
