Without the fortress…without the family…without a home…what’s left is the Absolute Man of Steel! Absolute Superman #1 introduces the classic hero in DC’s “Absolute Universe,” delivering an interesting take with amazing art.

DC’s “Absolute Universe” is reimagining DC’s heroes in a world where they don’t have the tools, the expertise, the support, and more to help them in their battle for justice. It’s more of a back to the roots concept focusing on the core of DC’s classic characters with new origins and a new status-quo. Absolute Superman #1 introduces the Man of Steel with a backstory that’s familiar but whose initial mission is something new and very interesting.

Written by Jason Aaron, Absolute Superman’s backstory of an alien child sent off world from a dying planet remains unchanged. The specifics are different, but the basics are there. But, it’s Superman on Earth where the changes are really present.

Aaron’s Superman is hiding out, apparently destroying mining operations of Lazarus Corps. The company is abusing the local population to mine raw materials and Superman is interfering for some reason. That all leads to a confrontation and the introduction of a familiar character. Superman as protector of the abused working class is an interesting position to put the character in. At its heart, again its what reporters should be doing, but instead of investigating these wrongs, this is hands on action.

Superman himself is different in many ways. The character is younger and a bit more reserved. His suit feels more like something X-O Manowar would wear and introduces some familiar concepts but in new and different ways.

The art by Rafa Sandoval is jawdropping. With color by Ulises Arreola and lettering by Becca Carey, the comic looks amazing in every way. The design of Superman feels like a younger, slightly angrier individual, but also at its heart a hero you want to trust. The settings deliver detail that tell so much of the story and situations. When the action kicks up, it sucks you in and you forget about the world around you. Visually, it’s a “darker” take on the character but one that still feels like it’s fighting against injustice.

With Aaron’s attention to detail and focus on class on Krypton and Superman’s initial battle to protect exploited workers, Absolute Superman #1 is a hell of a start with a focus and statement to make. It’s the standout of DC’s “Absolute Universe” and a standout for all comics currently on the shelf.

Story: Jason Aaron Art: Rafa Sandoval
Color: Ulises Arreola Letterer: Becca Carey
Story: 9.5 Art: 9.5 Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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