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Review: Superman #11

By Philip Schweier
May 15, 2019 - 08:07

In the aftermath of the return of a somewhat older Jon Kent, we’ve had a bit of a rest, so perhaps it’s time for some spectacle, to engage the readers in a “wow” moment. This issue delivers precisely that, though there are a few cheats along the way.

Clark and Jon journey to space to find Jor-El, only to find him in the midst of an intergalactic conflict between the Thanagarians, the Khunds, and the Trilium Collective. Whether Jor-El is the cause or the target is something for Superman to determine, and to do that he needs to bring the hostilities to an immediate halt. In one instance, he appears to be the reasonable, admired hero; in another the powerful threat to intimidate one into submission. But in the final – well, I guess he’s just Superman.

But the three-way attack on Jor-El is just another facet of the larger battle between the House of El and Rogol Zaar. Yes, him again, but now he has allies: Zod and the other Phantom Zone criminals. I appreciate Zaar as an opponent for Superman – equals in power, and opposites in compassion. But this storyline has been going on for quite a while now and every time I think Zaar has been dealt with, he returns, like DC’s own Jason Vorhees.

Ivan Reis is probably my new favorite artist, combining the skills of George Perez with Neal Adams. I am pleased he has been able to remain consistent on this title, though he occasionally does get by with a little help from his friends. In this issue, it’s 100 percent Reis. As long as he’s front and center, I’m okay with that.

Rating: 8/10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12