Review: SUPERMAN #3

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SUPERMAN #3
Written by Peter J. Tomasi & Patrick Gleason
Art by Jorge Jimenez and Alejandro Sanchez
Published by DC Comics
Release Date: July 20, 2016

Eradicators gon’ eradicate.

Jon continues to be a mystery as this Clark embarks on a journey to an unfamiliar Fortress of Solitude. Upon entering, they quickly encounter the Eradicator, who desires to bring back the glory of Krypton’s people, but who also reveals a side of himself contingent upon the survival of the youngest of the planet’s descendants. While they are willing to protect the boy, the Eradicator proves ruthless, leaving a young Jon to take matters into his own hands.

I like the dynamics between each character in the latest chapter of the series. This Clark embodies classic Superman ideals and values, but also is more than willing to challenge threats. The Eradicator is dedicated to prolonging Kryptonian existence, but also recognizes Jon’s importance. Lois is not as brazen in this characterization as she has been in the years past, but it also doesn’t diminish her presence, especially compared to the previous two issues.

Each of these characters has something on the line which drives them to respond drastically to surprises thought without betraying who they seem to be at their core.

Peter J. Tomasi and Patrick Gleason take a rich history behind Superman and use it to engage a rather different Clark and his family. Eradicators have an interesting place in Kryptonian lore, and this comes to the fore as the being not only wants to bring back their planet, but make sure it is done by pure Kryptonians. These contrasting elements create a sense of drama that challenges each of the characters, particularly by the end of the issue. The interplay between these personalities and motivations help make this story evocative and thought provoking.

Jorge Jimenez takes the poignant moments of the previous two issues and turns them into emphatically emotional moments. Jon’s wide-eyed expressions of surprise, horror, and anger dot this issue in a way that heightens each moment of tension. I feel that Jimenez’s style helps to add flair to each instance of fear and loss, moving away from the more structured feel of the previous two issues.

Alejandro Sanchez adds haunting dimension to this issue with dark hues and shadows. My favorite points of Sanchez’s work are in detailing the Kryptonian past, full of bright and vivid oranges amidst the darkness of space. These colors among the rest of the story help to demonstrate the gravity of Jon’s existence on this Earth. It’s hard to feel happy and optimistic with the enshrouding cool hues of the Fortress of Solitude against the violence of the energy from each of the characters.

Superman #3 assuredly doesn’t disappoint because of its ability to draw on the emotion and intrigue of the previous issues while increasing the emotional tension of the events surrounding this specific Kent family. I like the touches of Superman’s past, no matter the continuity, and how they affect the timeline as it is now. Every character is dynamic and compelling, and the story continues to build into something powerful.

Also, no more dead animals, please.

The Verdict: 9.0/10

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