Review: Superman #12 - Mobile Edition

DC Comics
Review: Superman #12
By Philip Schweier
June 12, 2019 - 07:58

DC Comics
Writer(s): Brian Michael Bendis
Penciller(s): Ivan Reis
Inker(s): Joe Prado, Oclair Albert
Colourist(s): Alex Sinclair
Letterer(s): Josh Reed
Cover Artist(s): Ivan Reis, Joe Prado, Alex Sinclair; Adam Hughes

It’s rapidly boiling to a head, as Superman goes toe-to-toe with Rogol Zaar AND Zod. Fortunately, the Man of Steel has help: Jon, Kara, Krypto and Jor-El. Though as a combatant, Jor-El is strangely otherwise engaged. And for the first time in a long time, Superman is beginning to doubt the man who claims to be his father. It is likely answers will come next issue.

BUT… how is it that Zod – the man sworn to protect Krypton – is allied with Rogol Zaar, the being who destroyed it? Again, answers can be expected later. I’ve come to discern that in Bendis’ writing. He depicts moments which are either meaningless or confusing, but explains them later. As long as it happens within the same chapter, I’m okay with it. I’m not fond of seeing puzzles stretched out over multiple issues.

This chapter also represents the growth of characters, as greater faith is placed in Jon Kent, and he is prepared (in every sense) to live up the that faith. If this trend continues, and I see no reason why it wouldn’t, he has a bright future ahead of himself, rather than living in his father’s shadow. Who knows? Perhaps someday he will evolve into a Superman Beyond-type of character.

As always, the artwork is superb. Reis, Prado, Albert and Sinclair have obviously committed themselves to making The Unity Saga a genuine event. It’s visually ambitious, and they collectively measure up to the challenge. I just hope they still have energy left to continue after this particular story arc concludes.

Rating: 9/10