dtm666

Well, folks… The New 52 is here… It kinda sucks.

Some time ago, I sampled the first issue of Grant Morrison’s Action Comics, depicting a much younger, less powerful, and more rebellious Superman. I decided that I quite enjoyed that take on the character and was looking forward to the follow-up issue. I’m not sure if the same could be said for this other Superman book.

For what it’s worth, the first issue is all about establishing the new status quo going forward. Beginning with the demolition of the old Daily Planet building before introducing to the new media-saavy Daily Planet under new ownership, we eventually get the new Lois and Clark; the former now a new media correspondent while Clark remains partial to the printed word – a clash of philosophies… oh, and also not married as well as Lois no longer having knowledge of Clark’s double life. There’s less focus on Clark/Superman in this issue, putting the spotlight on the supporting cast and other happenings to set up future stories. In fact, the only time Clark is given any real focus is towards the end of the book, where he passes by Lois’ place to apologize for their earlier spat, only to meet up with Lois’ boyfriend named Jonathan… oops.

Whatever you want to say about the narrative – which isn’t so much George Perez than it is editorial mandate, though Perez’s need to bury the book in seemingly endless exposition doesn’t help matters, either – the artwork is tremendous. Perhaps a bit cramped with so many small panels, but when it comes to the rare bits of action, those play out wonderfully. I wish we had more of that instead of the other stuff; then I’d have more of a reason to stick around.

Good try, I suppose… but nope, still not sold on The New 52!…

Well, folks. The New 52 is among us… and yeah, it largely sucks… but one thing that doesn’t suck (so far) is Grant Morrison’s Action Comics.

Action Comics gives us another take on Superman that is not only distinct from what we have come to know him as, but also has its roots in the earliest years of Superman lore. This rougher, take no prisoners rebellious Superman might be a stark contrast to the “big blue boy scout” that people are familiar with, but it does harken back to Superman’s younger days when he was a guy who took matters into his own head and went against the establishment before he eventually became it. This is also a less powerful Superman; tall leaps and bounds, some of the familiar powers, but not quite there yet.

I’m not a fan of the “current” Superman reboot, but this Action Comics take is promising. Honestly, out of all the New 52 drivel, this one intrigues me the most. If nothing else, at least this Superman has a personality and a hot streak that might not jive with what has been a traditional depiction of Superman, but is far and above better than the other stupid thing. And I like Rags Morales’ art here. It’s clean, it’s nice, it’s fine.

A promising start to a promising 1 out of New 52. Let’s see how long this goes before they fuck it up.