Superman #29 Review

The Golden Age Part 1
Written by: Phillip Kennedy Johnson
Pencils by: Phil Hester
Inks by: Eric Gapstur
Colors by: Hi-Fi
Lettered by: Dave Sharpe
Publisher: DC Comics

Tales of Metropolis: Bibbo
Written by: Sean Lewis
Art by: Sami Basri
Colors by: Ulises Arreola
Lettered by: Dave Sharpe
Publisher: DC Comics

Okay, this I like.

Superman #29 is a heartfelt story that deals with Jonathan contemplating his father’s mortality and legacy.

This was a lovely issue to read and after all of the recent events in the DC Universe, it feels like the most natural progression for the story of Superman. I love Johnson’s approach to this story, having Jon battle alongside his father and witness him take damage. I love the air of silence these scenes. There’s a great and overwhelming battle happening, yet there’s no “pow!” or “Whap!” effect. It adds to the tension and resonates Jon’s fears to the reader. Clark’s conversation with Jon is bittersweet and there’s so much weight to what both characters are feeling and have lost. Lewis’ backup story was also a huge treat! Having varying characters from all over Metropolis helps to care for the city the way Superman does and adds so much life to the book. Also, I couldn't help but to feel for Bibbo, he's got some great lines and you can't help but to root for him.

The choice to have these nameless villains charge after the Supermen, wave after wave was excellent! I love how relentless it all feels. The way the green of their skin surrounds and engulfs these characters is claustrophobic and the vibrancy of the green evokes the imagery of kryptonite. The action moves quickly and is easy to follow, the pacing of each panel syncs up to the narration boxes beautifully and works to build suspense.

This has been such a great read and I can’t wait to see where we’ll go in Jon and Clark’s relationship.