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Written by: Jason Aaron
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Art by: Rafa Sandoval
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Colors by: Ulises Arreola
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Letters by: Becca Carey
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Cover art by: Rafa Sandoval, Ulises Arreola (cover A)
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Cover price: $4.99
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Release date: October 1, 2025
Absolute Superman #12, by DC Comics on 10/1/25, lands Superman and company in the heart of Kansas as Ra’s al Ghul’s sinister forces close in.
First Impressions
This chapter radiates emotional heft, but good luck escaping the glacial pacing. The art draws the eye with bright colors and energetic layouts, but the story slogs rather than soars. By the end, it’s clear the creative team loves character drama; sometimes a bit too much for the plot’s own good.
Recap
In the previous issue, Superman was manipulated by Brainiac and the Al Ghuls, pushing him into mind-altering simulations intended to break his will. Jor-El’s flashbacks highlighted Kryptonian strength and sacrifice, while in the present, Superman and the Omega Men stormed a Greenland Lazarus Corps facility. Jimmy Olsen was wrongly reported captured and General Lane’s intervention sparked a rescue attempt, but Talia al Ghul’s betrayal left Superman physically and psychologically battered, setting the stage for an even larger confrontation in Kansas.
Plot Analysis
The issue opens in Smallville’s memory care unit, where Ma Kent’s confusion foreshadows looming chaos. Sol, the AI companion, whisks Superman from a storm-ravaged Greenland to Kansas, seeking safety for him and his friends, but nowhere seems truly safe. Superman wrestles with Brainiac’s lingering psychic invasions, feeling the burden of potentially being Ra’s al Ghul’s weapon. Conversations with Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen carry the emotional fallout from prior battles, as both Superman and his circle are left dealing with the scars of recent losses.
As the story unfolds, Superman is stuck in a cycle of regret and self-doubt, haunted by the fear of becoming what he hates – an unrestrained force of destruction. Sol pushes Kal-El to reconnect with humanity, but Superman resists, isolating himself and fixating on finding community and purpose after years of running. Meanwhile, the supporting cast converges in Smallville’s humble diner, exchanging anxious small talk and meals, with Lana Lang offering hospitality as talk of Lazarus Corp’s reach hangs over the town.
The final act kicks into gear as Ra’s al Ghul and Talia set their sights on Smallville, vowing to unleash terror on the townsfolk to provoke Superman. Their sadistic plan involves putting the entire town to siege, proving that no Kryptonian can hide from their wrath. Superman, still emotionally battered but buoyed by his friends and “family,” faces the looming threat with renewed determination. Though the odds, and his emotional wounds, seem heavier than ever.
Writing
The writing excels at introspection and capturing the weight of Superman’s internal struggle. Dialogue is thick with subtext, showing the cost of being Superman, but action grinds to a crawl as the script dwells a bit too long on feelings. The emotional realism is undeniable. A double-edged sword that adds gravity while kneecapping the plot’s velocity.
Art
Rafa Sandoval’s art is the real superpower here. Every page brims with kinetic energy and expressive characters, from stark Kansas landscapes to the etched pain on Superman’s face. Ulises Arreola’s colors drench every scene in warmth and drama, evoking nostalgia or menace on a whim, and the layouts do wonders to make even mundane scenes pop.
Characters
This issue digs deep into Kal-El’s psyche, skillfully peeling back layers of guilt, longing, and fatigue. Lois Lane and Jimmy manage to share meaningful moments, providing a human anchor amidst the cosmic chaos. Sol functions not just as Superman’s AI but as a surrogate sibling and therapist, adding texture to their conversations. Even supporting players like Lana Lang feel rounded and real, stepping up in a way that pays off emotionally if not always in terms of page-turning suspense.
Positives
The comic’s most impressive strength lies in its heartfelt exploration of loneliness, resilience, and found family. Character relationships (especially between Superman and Sol) are drawn with care, offering small but poignant payoffs. Visually, the story is gorgeous, with layouts and colors that turn even moments of quiet reflection into something cinematic. If genuine emotional connection is the heart of a superhero story, this issue has a lot of heart to spare.
Negatives
Unfortunately, the pacing is slow enough to make a snail look like the Flash. For every beautiful splash or meaningful conversation, there’s a scene that drags, recycling Superman’s internal torment with minimal narrative progress. The broader plot takes a back seat as the villains’ looming threat is established…and then promptly put on hold for another issue. If action or momentum is desired, this chapter leaves one hungry for more than just a metaphorical Kansas breakfast.
Final Thoughts
7.5/10
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