Absolute Superman #22

DC Comics

Written by Jason Aaron

Art by Juan Ferreyra

Colors by Juan Ferreyra

Letters by Becca Carey

The Rundown: Superman goes after Brainiac and finds a dangerous new opponent.

Brainiac’s trail has led Superman to Argentina and a Lazarus facility that might have answers. Unfortunately, what it does have is former Peacemaker Christopher Smith now known as Metallo. A Metallo that not only matches Superman in strength but seems almost unstoppable as Kal barely holds his own in a fight through the streets.

With the real Brainiac looking on, Superman does the only thing he can do to both stop the fight and stay alive, he tries to appeal to the man inside the metal. Smith deals with the conflicting memories of his time as a peacemaker and what happened to him in the aftermath. A struggle that will determine if he is still Christopher Smith or only Metallo.

The Story: Aaron begins this issue with pulse pounding action that doesn’t let up. It also brilliantly intercuts the character’s personal conflict within the story and I love that Superman continues to appeal to the man’s humanity as he fights for his life in a seemingly losing battle. There is great drama throughout the story and everything culminates in a fantastic moment for Superman and a cliffhanger that kept me engaged in both the character and his world.

The Art: Ferreyra crafts some beautifully detailed and visually dynamic art throughout the issue. I love the visual style of the story and the character designs a lot.

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