Superman #1

Written by: Peter J. Tomasi
Art by: Patrick Gleason

Ever since I read Peter J. Tomasi’s first Superman comic, I knew the writer had a worthy handle on the character. I wasn’t completely satisfied with Superman: Rebirth #1 because it didn’t focus on the family aspect of this new Superman. There wasn’t enough new material in this issue to generate high excitement. I knew this was not a reason to be concerned and I was correct in not worrying. Superman #1 is a great first chapter in Superman’s new book. It is no surprise to me that Tomasi is finally living up to his potential and is giving us the Superman comic we deserve.

Interestingly enough, Superman #1 does not entirely read like a Superman comic. It seems that Tomasi’s focus will be placed on Clark’s son Jon. Superman is represented as the great symbol of hope that he should be (unlike Zack Snyder’s morose ideas); kind, confident, and immovably good. Superman’s assurance here is contrasted by his son’s reluctance and fear. Tomasi sets up a great dynamic where Superman will be teaching his son how to accept who he is just like Jonathan Kent did for him. This is the heart of Tomasi’s story and it grounds Superman. This comic is a wonderful counter argument to the idea that Superman can’t be relatable because he is invincible. Superman is endlessly relatable because he lives a mundane life. Showing him being a father is a perfect way to exemplify his humanity and it does this book wonders.

This is my first exposure to Patrick Gleason’s work. I have heard people sing the praise of Gleason’s art and I’ve been looking forward to seeing what he does with Superman since March. In a Superman comic, the artist may be just as important as the writer. Zack Snyder’s drab visual portrayal of the character complements his brooding nature. We don’t want an artist doing something visually dark while Tomasi brings the heart and joy back to Superman. Gleason’s bright, colorful and inspiring rendition of Superman’s costume is something that was sorely needed for the character. Gleason deserves all the praise he gets. This issue has the exact visuals I want in a Superman comic and could not be a better fit for Tomasi’s phenomenal portrayal of Clark.

Superman #1 is the issue I have been wanting from Peter J. Tomasi. By focusing on Superman’s family-life and putting Jon in the spotlight, Tomasi is able to create a fresh and heartfelt comic. Patrick Gleason’s shinning visuals elevate the issue to the heights of the story’s full potential. If Tomasi continues to give us issues like these rather than issues like the previous one, we will be looking at a great Superman run. DC Rebirth continues its streak of excellence.