Action Comics #25

Writer Greg Pak Artist Aaron Kuder

 

Introduction

 

Action Comics has been one of the most problematic titles in the line-up over at DC. Grant Morrison’s initial run on the comic seemed to lack focus, and move at a million miles a second. The promise of a more grounded first issue gave way very quick to a bizarre high concept Superman story. Afterwards, when the very successful writer Andy Diggle was headed towards the title. He was then quickly fired by editorial, and the book had a huge false start. Superman writer Scott Lobdell awkwardly handled the book until Greg Pak was formally announced on the project. The writer has been building a firm foundation at DC with some of the best villain’s month titles, and the spectacular Batman/Superman title. The new direction will hopefully build the first solid foundation that the series is going to have. The New 52 Superman has had barely any definition of character to set him apart from the other heroes in the line. Batman/Superman really dug into the psychosis of the hero, and showed that Pak has a deep understanding of who exactly Clark Kent really is. Which makes him seemed like the most qualified writer in the New 52 to tackle the character.

 

Writing

 

This new issue gives a distinctive direction to the title that Grant Morrison briefly flirted with. The idea of Superman being an action hero that tries save everyone, but really cannot and is driven to the brink of insanity, is smart in it’s sheer simplicity. Breaking down the character to the most basic ideals is absolutely necessary at this moment in the publishing history. If the immense quality of this title can stay intact, there is a strong chance that other writers may grasp the character more firmly, and the quality of stories could increase. The best moment in the issue, involves an underwater sequence that was no doubt difficult to pull off. Much of the work was lifted from the artist, but it also shows the two in a strong rhythm that proves this comic could be something really special. The characterization of Lana, is so understated and beautiful in such an elegantly sparse manner. Pak makes her as charming as she could possibly be, and an interesting foil to Lois Lane and the rest of the world that is slowly taking shape.

 

Art

 

Aaron Kuder is an exceptional artist that has recently started making some strong waves in the industry. This is the project that could really kickstart the creator into one of the best new creators in the industry. He brings an awkwardly drawn Superman to the forefront of the book, and really puts his definitive stamp on the character. The fact that Kent really looks like he is enjoying himself, makes the art charming and incredibly fun to observe. This is a side of the character that many are very interesting in exploring deeper. The storytelling is concise, with some energy that makes the work look less static. His layouts can also be experimental in a manner that serves to be quite amusing. The second story starts off looking sharp, but is hurt by the different pencillers, giving the art a fragmented sensibility. All in all, Kuder deliver in spades on this first installment.

 

Conclusion

This comic is the single best Superman material readers have been given in the New 52. There is a sense of magic here that comics can rarely achieve. Those soured by the darkness permeating in the line, should look to this series for a forward thinking beacon of hope. Greg Pak and Aaron Kuder make a strong first impression on the book. Did I mention that this is a tie-in to a Batman event that has no impact on the actual story? This chapter makes a strong case for beauty in simplicity.