David Beasley Comic Reviews

Absolute Power: Super Son #1 feels like a hype book presented as a tie-in to the Absolute Power event. While the event is relevant to where Jon's headed, I don't think the opposite is true. Still, the art direction is fantastic and the story is quite captivating. If you're a fan of Jon Kent or Dreamer, this book is not one to miss.

There's a couple of changes I have reservations about in Absolute Superman #1, but as a follower of Jason Aaron's body of work, I'm hopeful they won't negatively impact the story. Overall it's an impressive reimagining of Superman that should appeal to all levels of fan.

The visual storytelling in Absolute Superman #2 is incredible. What this Superman can do and what he's about is shown to us instead of overly explained to us. This allows the written elements to focus more on dialogue and character interactions. It's simply well crafted and I can't wait to experience it more.

The art and action sequences in Absolute Superman #3 are top tier. Even with this basically being a retelling of Superman's origins Jason Aaron is going about it in a way that leaves you wondering what will happen next. The elements he's added to this Superman's foundations truly elevates this beyond simply feeling like an Elseworlds tale. I find myself excited to read this series each month and am really enjoying the ride.

I absolutely (pun slightly intended) love how this part of the story is being woven. Having the perspectives avoid Superman's point-of-view let's us discover who he is along with everyone else and adds to his alienation of being alone on Earth. There's still so much we don't know about this Absolute Superman and it's a blast not knowing what to expect next.

Obviously this part of Superman's story has been told countless times, but I can't remember ever feeling the incredible weight and tragedy of it all like I did with Absolute Superman #5. I think this version really explains the fundamental differences of the character while still keeping to the core of Superman.

The art and story direction is such a joy to read. I love not knowing what to expect from this series but it still feels like reading a Superman story.

I legitimately had physical tension in my body while reading 'Absolute Superman #10'. Jason Aaron does a spectacular job playing with the uncertainies provided by this new universe which is expertly enhanced by the art. I can't recommend reading this one enough!

Even though some of the end results of this crossover has been revealed through the hype of 'Absolute Power', the journey has proven to be worth the ride. I'm especially impressed Williamson stayed true to Lobo by not boxing him into his "good guy version that tends to happen when he teams up with heroes. The additions of Brainiac's successors also makes the title of the crossover more than just a play on The House of El and keeps the uncertainty of the story's outcome shrouded in mystery.

For a first chapter story, you couldn't ask for much better. Instant set up and execution, cliffhanger twist ending, superb art, and a great jumping on point for new and/or returning readers. This easily has the makings of being something special as it's already a lot of fun.

This is Superman at his funnest. The art is great, the storytelling is great, and the entire experience is just great! My only small disappointment is not seeing the "Super Twins at the dinner table in the beginning of "In Love. At Work., but that really is a minor thing.

Both stories are expertly drawn and written. The mysteries and intrigue continue to build as things aren't quite what they seem in either feature.The anticipation makes for a very compelling read which makes the weekly release of the title even more welcomed.

The art remains a constant highlight in Action Comics #1073 and the writing is still entertaining, but the sharp directional change in "Phantoms could derail the story. Also, "The Loop took me a second read to really grasp the concepts presented with the prisoner, changing the mysterious nature of the story into a bit of a confusing one. Fortunately we only have one week to see if my concerns warrant any merit.

For a milestone issue, Action Comics #1075 doesn't have much fanfare. Just another chapter in the ongoing story, which isn't necessarily bad but is a bit disappointing. Clark's aside to Krypton's past gets a substantial connection to what's happening with The Phantom Zone, but Conner and Kenan's tale (albeit fun to read) feels more and more disjointed from the main story with each installment. Supergirl's story is also starting to feel too drawn out but still has the potential to pick up more traction. Still, I'm very excited to see where things are going and can't wait for next week's issue.

Oddly enough, now that the Conner and Kenan side story is finished in Action Comics #1079, things feel a little rushed within the main Superman tale. There seems to be some interesting themes being glossed over for the sake of over complicating the resolution of the original plot.To me, the Supergirl story has gotten way more compelling and socially relevant as it's gone on and I find I'm more interested in how her story will end up playing out.

This is a fun issue overall. Seeing some "old school Bronze Age Phantom Zone villains is definitely a treat, but again the confrontations felt rushed and formulaic towards the end. With each story's cliffhanger, I can't wait to see how the finale plays out.

This was about as satisfying an ending as you could expect from both stories. Overall I think Supergirl's tale stuck a better landing but the elements put in motion in Superman's story could have some interesting repercussions for the future.

I'll admit my nostalgia for the Superman era John Ridley is tapping into makes me a bit biased, but the way he's turned his story in Action Comics #1082 into a Clark Kent centric tale is also a bit exciting. The art team sets a perfect tone throughout the pages as well, to the point you can imagine a musical score accompaniment.

I was pleasantly surprised with the villain reveal in Action Comics #1083. The Batman cameo works itself organically within the story and doesn't take away from Clark's own investigative skills. All in all this is shaping up to be a very memorable tale.

There's a couple of old Silver Agey tropes for Superman in Action Comics #1085 that Wilson uses that I've never been to fond of but so far they play well with the story she's crafting. Other than that, it's a solid chapter one with some genuine unexpectedness.

I whole heartingly realize my own bias towards PKJ's work is fully on display here, but I can't help it. However, I don't think it changes the fact this is a great first issue that promises to be an epic House of El adventure. This is definitely a must read for any PKJ fan, but it's also a great "off the beaten path type of Superman book that has potential to be something special.

Coming off the energy of #1, 'Adventures of Superman: Book of El' #2 does an excellent job letting us catch our breathe while maintaining the tension of the situation. The art is fantastic and contributes to the pacing that gives us a sense Clark is against the clock, which is ironic considering time travel is involved.

Adventures of Superman: Book of El #3 was an absolute blast. There's a lot going on this issue and I found myself rereading it more than once just to make sure I didn't miss any hidden details. Each time was just as exciting as the first and I can't wait to see where the story goes from here.

Adventures of Superman: Book of El #4 is an exceptional issue that further builds on the futuristic setting of the series. Bringing in elements from PKJ's Green Lantern story makes everything feel larger in scope and the last page betrayal gives the feeling that things are about to go bigger.

Adventures Of Superman: Book Of El #5 is the most poignant of the series thus far as PKJ's narrative is not only relatable to the story but also to us readers. The pacing hits a sweet spot that feels like the story is steadily progressing and the art is absolutely incredible.

As far as finales go, this one was fantastically well done. My only quibble is the vagueness as to why a certain character goes missing, but I’m sure that story will reveal itself in time. Otherwise I felt this was a great ending to the DC Event that will ultimately shape future stories without completely needing to start from scratch as other events have attempted.

For added Superman related content, DC's Kal-El-Fornia Love #1 is a very fun read and would work well as an introductory of these characters for new readers. The execution of the issue's concept was well done and each story is entertaining in their own way. Personally, I need Kara and Constantine to team up more after reading this. However, these are intentional side stories that will probably not have any impact on the monthly titles, so don't stress about missing out if you end up skipping this one for whatever reason.

The art is as fantastic as you'd expect from Clayton Henry, but this premise feels a little overplayed. The roster is definitely enough to keep me interested for awhile and here's hoping Saladin Ahmed has some twists and turns to throw at us to make this story feel more unique.

The prologue in "Action Comics and issue #1 of this series peppered in some possible bigger threads, but haven't really hit on them since.Am I just being too impatient? Perhaps, but at least my interest is still piqued.

I find the art fantastic and am repeatingly reminded of other classic sci-fi imagery while flipping through the issue. I am genuinely upset over the beginning of this book, but my biggest concern is the seemingly sense of constant redirection each instalment takes. I find myself continuing to read the series out of morbid curiosity than through an actual investment to the plot. I do trust Joe Casey to eventually get to the heart of things, I just wish it would've happened already.

I continually find myself impressed with the art of this book. It's such a love letter to the Space Opera genre and yet maintains a uniqueness all its own. The last page of this issue feels like an end to the story rollercoaster the last few issues had us on, but I could just be hopefully optimistic. Zod did feel a little out of character bearing his wrath at the beings who saved his life, but he has just lost everything he cared about so it's a small thing to discount.

The space horror trope was a really fun change. I wholeheartedly enjoy the art of this book, but it's hard to maintain interest in the overall story when it has altered course nearly every issue. Still, I've made it half way through and there's plenty of time for Joe Casey to show us what this story's all about.

What could've been an interesting alliance between Zod and The Emerald Eye plays out for comedy as a filler issue. The visuals are super fun and contributes to most of the entertainment value. I've resigned to the idea this series has turned into a version of 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' featuring Zod which makes the disjointed nature of each issue more enjoyable albeit a tad disappointing from where the series began.

McDaid and Baron's art has been the highlight of the entire series and the moments they get to show off are absolutely worth picking up the book. Sadly, however, it seemed we may have lost sight as to what makes Zod a compelling foil to Superman and ended up making him a clichd version of himself. As entertaining as it was, the unprovoked attack on Sinestro even felt out of character as Zod's fury came off more like unchecked rage. That being said, I hope the events presented within the overall story gets explored more in the future.

I'll admit I'm biased when it comes to Krypto stories but this book really is fantastic. The art is incredibly emotional and the lettering approach is brilliant. A superb first issue with a potential of only getting better as the series unfolds.

North hits hard with Krypto: The Last Dog Of Krypton #2 and really makes me hate Lex in ways no other story has done before. The art is exemplary and is such a contrast in tone from issue #1 that it's impressive to think they're drawn by the same team.

Krypto Last Dog of Krypton #3 had me genuinely worried for a fictional little girl's safety. This is twice in one month I've had physical responses to the emotional aspects of a Superman related story. There's a moment I shouted for joy as Krypto takes flight for the first time and that was only one page. This isn't just another superhero comic, it's also a lens to the resilience of domesticated animals and their importance in our lives.

In a series full of tragic and emotionally taxing issues, 'Krypto: The Last Dog Of Krypton #4' hits a little harder. It's a good thing there's only one more chapter as it's killing me seeing Krypto so sad and alone all the time. Still, this is another fantastic issue in a series I plan on recommending to people for a long time.

In a time where it's easy to get caught up in the travesties happening in the world, this issue is a helpful reminder that a small act of love can have a huge positive impact. 'Krypto: The Last Dog of Krypton' has definitely entered my all time favorites list and I'll be recommending it to new and seasoned readers alike.

A few personal biases keep this issue from being absolutely perfect for me. I've been a huge fan of Marguerite Sauvage's art for years now, but was hoping to see Paige sport her eye patch a bit longer.Also, Supergirl came to Power Girl for help because there might be some slight illegal activity involved but the two minor incidents that occur, she she takes great exception too which felt a little out of character.Otherwise it's a fun issue that does an expert job of setting up the next arc.

The art is fantastic and adds an inviting all-ages aspect to the comic as a whole. The writing has been stellar from the beginning, but this one is especially fun done up like a fairytale. The story is well contained but I actually wouldn't have minded staying in Ferimbia a bit longer. My guess is we haven't seen the last of these new concepts as long as Leah Williams remains the writer.

It's impressive to have a story clearly connected to what's happening in two other books but capable of standing apart on its own. Not only is 'Power Girl' #8 a smart tie-in to 'House of Brainiac', but it's also a great first issue to a new arc.

The art and writing really make this book fun and inviting. While the levity break is welcomed within the House of Brainiac crossover as a whole, I personally would've liked the danger to carry similar weight for Paige. Still, it's an enjoyable read and fits well with the reimaging Leah Williams has been creating for Power Girl from the beginning.

This one has it all. It's comical and heartfelt in the right places with plenty of action and set-up for future stories. I feel like this Power Girl series as a whole is absolutely great for young or new readers and is a rather refreshing book for older ones. It's possibly one of the more underrated books on the shelves these days and I encourage more people should check it out.

This book had me chuckle more than once and had a "feel good quality to the story. The art is fantastic and I can only imagine what's in store for us in later issues. I look forward to this arc being a nice interlude to the Absolute Power event.

I was smiling and chuckling the entire time reading this issue. It's always nice to see characters enjoy their powers in relaxing ways and there's just some spark of innocence in how Paige perceives the wonders of Asgard. Moore's art is wonderful as always and it's good to see him on a Super related title again.

I think the bones of this story will resonate with many people who feel isolated or alone even among friends. I know it did for me which made the last panel hit especially hard. I have no clue where things are headed, but this issue got my attention with very little action or super heroics.

I personally feel this is the best creative team we've had on this book. The art and writing in Power Girl #14 really mix well to bring these characters and situations to life on an entirely different level. My only critique is another character is allowed in on Paige's identity on what seems like a whim. Not that she really needs an alternate ID (Kara, Conner, and Kenan seem to do fine without one), but I fear she's being too reckless about having one.

Leah Williams is really shaping up Power Girl as a force unto her own. The way she has Paige feel her emotions and face her traumas is especially inspiring. There's a lot of positive messages within the series, even when things get bleak, that remind me of the type of comics I enjoyed in my youth, and this issue is no exception.

It was a total treat to see Power Girl unleashed in a way that fits this version of her. Known for being a brutal power house, the fight is tempered with compassion and finality. Although I would have liked to see more of Omen's struggle within her mindscape inter mixed, it probably would have detracted from the relevancy of the title bout.

I have to hand it to Leah Williams, she has proven no detail is thrown away just for the fun of it. Although I'm a little sad to see the jacket and pant suit disappear, maybe her going back to a familiar look is a way of visually showing her coming to terms with some of her inner demons? Only time will tell for sure.

While the art is terrific and the dialogue had me chuckling in multiple areas, very little seemed to happen in Power Girl #18. There's still a lot of questions and hopefully it all makes some sense by the resolution of this arc.

The action sequences in Power Girl #19 could've really gotten confusing and I was impressed they weren't. Not only that, but the book still managed to maintain a lighthearted, all ages feel through witty dialogue and comedic visuals.

Having to quickly resolve the imposter Karen Starr plot makes it feel like an after thought in what is otherwise a decent enough finale under the circumstances. Naturally, I would have liked at least 5 more issues, but hopefully Power Girl will continue to make regular appearances within the Superman family of comics.

As first issues go, Secret Six #1 is pretty good. Things get set up rather quickly and a lot of questions are presented, making you want to come back for more. Obviously, I loved the art and it played no small part in my overall enjoyment of this first installment.

Secret Six #3 really hooked me. The character interactions felt more compelling and the way the issue plays out was incredibly fun. I really think this story is going to have a big impact on the greater DCU when it's over and I'm excited to see what that is.

The art is simply "on point and perfectly sells the story's emotional weight. This issue could have easily just played to Nia's storyline, but Nicole Maines continues to showcase her talent for assemble casts and her ability to exploit the character's strengths and weaknesses. We only have one more issue left, and it's sure to be exciting, but I'm also hoping some variation of this team continues in a more ongoing fashion.

Although the art is dynamic, it could sometimes feel too busy or distracting, especially in some of the more somber moments of the story.Honestly, my expectations weren't too high going into this book but found myself thoroughly engaged the entire time.The real take away is the impressiveness of Nicole Maines writing. Some of these characters aren't the easiest to capture on their own, let alone in an ensemble cast, and she absolutely nails it. I'm genuinely intrigued where this series is headed.

This issue's layouts felt less jumbled than in issue #1 making the flow of the story more coherent. The art is top notch and the book is worth picking up on that alone. Add in the fact Nicole Maines is proving to be quite the storyteller and this book becomes a must have.

The art and storytelling in Suicide Squad: Dream Team #3 is absolutely fantastic. I'm not typically one to get into The Suicide Squad, but this series has been top notch with this issue being my favorite thus far.

I can tell I'll be gushing and raving about this book, and series as a whole, for a long time. It blew away any kind of expectations I could've possibly had and delivered a truly thought provoking story with plenty of fun interactions, amazing drama, and spectacular action sequences. Also, I need more Harley and Dreamer hijinks in my life, just saying.

Summer of Superman Special #1 is a solid issue that really has me excited for the next few months of stories. Is it Summer yet?

Coming off her last two space adventures and guest appearances in "Power Girl, Kara felt a bit off to me, but taking into account this is also an introductory tale, it can be forgiven. That being said, Supergirl #1 and its premise and execution has me wanting to know more and I'm intrigued to see it all play out.

The tone of this book definitely leans towards a YT Reader category, which in and of itself isn't bad. It does mean some interactions and pacing's feel a little over played, but this is only issue #2 so there's plenty of space to twist it up a bit. The impressive work of Sophie Campbell as writer and artist is solid enough to keep me intrigued which makes this a great All Ages issue.

Either Sophie Campbell has captured a tone more suited to modern sentiments of Supergirl or I've merely warmed up to her style of storytelling, but 'Supergirl #3' was the most enjoyable issue of the series yet. The cliffhanger ending also peaked my interest and Campbell's art has a light hearted sensibility that doesn't feel too childish. A very approachable book that gives a bit of levity to the more world shattering DCU at large.

To be honest, I didn't feel this series had a very strong start, but these last two issues and specifically 'Supergirl #4' have really grabbed my attention. Sophie Campbell is just a beast of a creator and has successfully added a nuance to Supergirl that I didn't see coming.

Sophie Campbell is masterfully proving an all ages approach to storytelling can be applied to modern superhero comics without feeling "just for kids in Supergirl #5. The thought bubbles felt classic and nostalgic without loosing the sense of believability that can sometimes accompany their use. All in all, I find I'm genuinely enjoying this series in spite of it not really being my typical style of comic.

Supergirl #6 is a really great one-off issue that packs in a lot of acknowledgement towards Kara's growth over the years. Full of fun, nostalgic imagery, a bit of comedic levity, and a sprinkle of Halloween charm, this issue is a blast to read.

Supergirl #7 was well put together and I thoroughly enjoyed the Princess Shark origin tale. I have a small quibble with how one of the major guest stars is built into the story, but they're written appropriately and it works with Campbell's overall message. All in all, this series has definitely grown on me and I find myself delighted to read each installment.

I really respect the perspective Supergirl #8 gives on the complex emotional state a lot of people experience this time of year. That being said, I felt the Linda Robot elements felt a little forced and, although it played a huge part in Kara's catharsis, its purpose could have probably been handled through other established side characters. All in all, this was still a solid issue and felt like one of the more relevant stories Supergirl has delivered in awhile.

I initially had a more negative reaction to Supergirl #9 as it really felt disjointed from where the series had seemed to be headed. However, I've decided to hold out hope that we're just seeing a possibly awkward segue into the next arc. It is New Year's Resolution time after all, and change isn't always pretty.

To be honest, my personal disdain for Valentine's Day definitely skews my opinion of Supergirl #10 more than I realized. That being said, I did appreciate the more definitive aspects of pink kryptonite as more of a senses altering "love potion" and am very curious how/if the cast dynamic will change for the next arc.

Although I find the art fun and adventurous, I can see it not being for everyone.The only other mild complaint is the lack of Marilyn Moonlight.I kind of figured she'd play into this more, but that just adds to the idea we haven't reached the end of this story yet. Otherwise this is a near perfect issue that brilliantly answers questions by posing more.

An absolutely stellar book from start to finish.I've actually read it several times to make sure I wasn't just swept up in the excitement of the possibilities this crossover has to offer and every read through left me feeling the same way in the same scenes. It's just that good.

The pacing of the story has been well timed between Superman and Supergirl's separate involvements, keeping the reader constantly engaged. The art is simply fantastic and moves the story effortlessly from page to page.

I was pleasantly surprised Zatanna's involvement didn't revolve around, what I feel is, the obvious reason to showcase her. Even with it being a tie-in, the story has the potential to still stand on its own, and the ending Lois reveal was fantastic.

If you're not reading 'Absolute Power', you might be a little less empathetic to what's putting Clark on edge this issue, but such is the way of direct tie-in books. Williamson does his best to keep the story contained to this title and Campbell's art is just too good to pass up.

There's really not a lot to critique in 'Superman #27' except a small nod to how fast world elements reset by the end. However, even Williamson has Lois give a meta acknowledgement to these events and that manages to keep it from being a glaring trope. In all seriousness, if you've been reading this series in any capacity, this is not an issue to miss.

I'm a huge fan of Dan Mora and the little Easter Eggs peppered in Superman #28 are very fun. However, that last page reveal has me a bit nervous about the direction this story will take, but Joshua Williamson hasn't disappointed yet so perhaps my worry is unwarranted.

In general, I'm not a huge fan of how Superboy-Prime is utilized in most stories. However, Williamson does an expert job finding the right style of voice and direction for the character. Of course the art and visuals are spectacular. I don't think Mora could do a terrible looking book if he tried. Another great issue by one of DC's more talented creative teams.

I know it's getting said a lot lately, but don't miss out on 'Superman' #30. Not just because how it leads into the next big crossover, but because it blows away expectations of what a comic story can achieve.

Superman #31 could have easily played out as a detailed "downtime issue that happened between panels of another story. Instead we get major insight into Clark's feelings and motivations, and a continuation of events outside the main DC K.O. title. Even if you're not keeping up with the company wide crossover, this issue is still important to the overall story Williamson has been telling the entire series.

There's some great stuff in 'Superman #32', but I think it suffers a bit by how hard it leans into the company wide crossover. The last panel could especially be confusing if you're not reading 'DC K.O.'. That being said, if you are reading the event, this issue compliments it well and is definitely not one to miss.

This issue is crazy fun for an all out death match story. Williamson of course, adds depth to the conflict keeping it from feeling too gratuitous or cliched. It also still feels relevant to the overall plot of the series even without Clark making an appearance.

Even with 'Superman #34' being a tie-in to a crossover event, this story has plenty of stand alone moments that don't require reading said crossover. That being the case, it also heightens the DC K.O. event if you are reading it and both these truths are extremely hard to pull off. This creative team not only pulls it off, they pull it off well.

With DC K.O. being a Superman centric story, this tie-in arc in Superman #35 has been really rewarding as a supplement to the event. I’ve been extremely impressed with Joshua Williamson’s take, use, and revitalization of two characters (Prime & Doomsday) that could have easily fallen back into their overplayed tropes.

The art and storytelling are all top notch, where my issues lie are with the relevancy of this 'book 'Superman: House Of Brainiac Special #1' to the House of Brainiac crossover.

I would have liked to see this development play out a little longer throughout the Superman series, but the focus of this book worked well and, at least for me, gets you thinking about the intricacies of life experiences. The art was, as expected by this stellar team, a treat and really helped drive the heavier points of the story.

The use of "Superman and the Mole Men plot elevated my enjoyment of Superman Unlimited #7 a great deal. That being said, given the epically high major stakes playing out in the majority of DC comics at the moment, it was also just nice to have a fun little adventure with a satisfying ending.

While Superman Unlimited #8 is a fun read, it really comes off as a "filler issue. Stagg's motivations aren't made very clear and other than Kryptonite being used in the spacecraft construction, it really doesn't touch on the overall plot points from previous issues. Still, it could be seen as a great jump on point as the next issue is sure to be fascinating.

I have a feeling I'm not alone in never giving much thought to Livewire and Creeper being oddly perfect for each other. That being said, now that they are an item, I definitely want more. "Bill Zarro's World acts as a great prologue to the upcoming Kevin Smith 'Bizarro: Year None' mini-series and the entertainment quality of both installments turns this from a typical aside issue to one you'll want to read for yourself.

I am genuinely impressed how much Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor #2 stands on its own as the middle of a three part story especially with how delayed it was. Don't let the DC Black Label fool you either as there's nothing overtly "adult about this book, or series, thus far.

The ending of the second story had me laughing so hard my eyes watered! This book really lightened my day and could be recommended for anyone to read whether they're comic fans or not.