“Superman Superstars” continues with an unforgettable tale about Superman’s greatest gift to the world…hope. Major Disaster returns to Metropolis and his old ways much to the dismay of the Man of Steel. Can his alter ego Clark Kent discover the reason behind this villain’s decline back into the world of crime? Action Comics #1082 is an interesting issue where Superman won’t be able to solve the mystery, it’s up to Clark Kent to find out the answer.

Written by John Ridley, Action Comics #1082 is an interesting comic. I know nothing about Major Disaster and have no connection to the character, but you don’t need to for this. Ridley instead does deliver a story where we can really connect with the characters but instead examines the issue of recidivism, the tendency of criminals to reoffend and commit crimes again. As a whole, comics are full of that with super villains regularly returning to do battle with the hero. And at times we get motivations for their actions. But, Action Comics #1082 narrows in as Clark attempts to get truly to the answer as to why Major Disaster has committed yet another crime which has resulted in someone’s death.

Opening with some action, Action Comics #1082 is really one that’s focused on its concept as Clark and Lois discuss Clark and Superman’s frustration at the situation and what each side of them brings to answer the question they’re struggling with. So begins the journey as Clark attempts to find out about the motivation of Major Disaster interviewing those who know him. The end leaves a bit of a mystery that there might be more to what’s going on, but the comic really dives in and gets into the question as to why some people reoffend and leaves with no answers so far.

The art by Inaki Miranda is solid. Miranda brings a flair we’ve seen in previous work and a long run on Superman from Miranda would be interesting and exciting to see. Eva De La Cruz‘s colors make the issue pop, delivering the brightness and hope one looks for with Superman, even when the subject can be rather sad and dour. Dave Sharpe‘s lettering delivers personality to a script which features some long and solid debates.

Action Comics #1082 is an interesting comic that does what entertainment, and John Ridley, does best, ask questions and explores out world through storytelling. We’re left with no answers so far and a lot of questions but overall, it’s an Superman story where the problem might not be able to be solved by punching things. And, it’s a story arc that in the end might not have any answers.

Story: John Ridley Art: Inaki Miranda
Color: Eva De La Cruz Letterer: Dave Sharpe
Story: 8.4 Art: 8.1 Overall: 8.4 Recommendation: Buy

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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