General Zod was Krypton’s most notorious criminal. Now he has an entire planet to rule–but what happens when the most dangerous individual in the universe gets everything he ever wanted? Obviously, he wants more–and he’ll stop at nothing to get it–in the most brutal series you’ll read this year! This is not a hero’s journey. This is a dark ride. Kneel Before Zod #1 delivers a ho-hum start to what should be an intriguing series.

Written by Joe Casey, Kneel Before Zod #1 has Zod, Ursa, and their family on New Kandor as Zod attempts to build a new nation from nothing. The concept is full of potential, exploring a character who’s focus is domination and conquering, not nation building.

I was hoping for The Penguin, an exploration of a villain torn between their past, present, and future. But, Kneel Before Zod #1 feels like the comic equivalent of the meme of Pablo Escobar staring off in sadness.

There’s something missing in the deliver, even emotional moments come off as empty motion as opposed to the rollercoaster it should be. Zod confronting his rebellious son feels empty in some ways. It doesn’t hit the way you’d expect. Part of that is Zod himself whose only emotion seems to be anger, it doesn’t lend itself to nuance.

The art by Dan McDaid is good. There’s some good moments, even with the lacking of emotion, that deliver a punch. The color from David Baron and lettering by Troy Peteri, creates a look overall that’s a bit retro in some ways. The visuals emphasize the emptiness that currently exists in Zod’s world, a lack of people, cities, love. It captures the coldness Casey goes for.

Kneel Before Zod #1 shows a lot of potential but the comic doesn’t really nail what it’s attempting. There’s interesting moments and it sets up a lot of conflict to come but overall, the comic feels a bit like it’s going through the motions but lacks substance.

Story: Joe Casey Art: Dan McDaid
Color: David Baron Letterer: Troy Peteri
Story: 7.0 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.0 Recommendation: Read

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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Purchase: TFAW – Zeus Comics – Kindle