Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor #3 Review: Archenemies at the Edge of Oblivion

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Not many creators today can boast the impact on the realm of superhero comics that Mark Waid and Bryan Hitch have achieved. Waid has penned iconic interpretations of numerous DC Comics’ most esteemed characters, while Hitch revolutionized comic art throughout the ’90s and ’00s with his unique style and storytelling methods in titles like The Authority and The Ultimates, which continue to influence today. Yet, can these renowned masters breathe fresh life into one of the oldest feuds in superhero comics? That’s the aim of Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor, and with the miniseries reaching its conclusion this week, fans are eager to discover the outcome.

The Last Days of Lex Luthor #3″ is published by DC Comics and penned by Mark Waid, with illustrations by Bryan Hitch, ink work by Kevin Nowlan, colors by David Baron, and lettering by Richard Starkings and Tyler Smith. The story unfolds as Brainiac discloses his grand scheme: weakening Superman through an ailment that’s been afflicting Lex Luthor, before launching an attack on Earth. With only Superman and Lex remaining on the planet, they’re in a race against time to thwart Brainiac’s impending conquest. In this final installment of the Black Label miniseries, DC Comics’ longstanding adversaries come face-to-face in their joint struggle, shedding light on an unexpected shift in their complex relationship.

Superman and Lex Luthor Face Down Brainiac Together

A Familiar Dynamic Emerges as Superman Saves Earth from Both His Greatest Foes

In the third installment, Superman and Lex Luthor, who have been scouring the entire DC universe in search of a remedy for two issues, find themselves compelled to join forces to vanquish Brainiac. The narrative takes a dramatic turn, as the tension significantly increases due to the elevated risks involved.

This conclusion significantly resolves many aspects established in previous issues, as it delves into Superman and Lex Luthor’s childhood connection that underpins their relationship. While unconventional alliances between these characters may not be unprecedented given their long-standing comic book rivalry spanning over 80 years, this particular alliance offers fresh insights and depth to their complex bond.

In this narrative, Luthor persistently criticizes Superman’s dedication to life, and the destruction wreaked on Earth by Brainiac somewhat supports his arguments. However, the tale doesn’t primarily delve into Superman’s promises but rather his heroic character. It is Superman’s unstoppable optimism and faith in humanity’s inherent goodness that are emphasized during Luthor’s last moments. The intriguing part of the story lies in questioning whether Luthor will ultimately prove Superman’s biggest adversary correct or wrong at the end of their lives.

As a gamer, I’ve been diving deep into the world of “The Last Days of Lex Luthor”. This epic storyline marked the end of Earth-2 Superman’s journey during the “Crisis on Infinite Earths”, where Lex Luthor and Brainiac were bound together, forcing Superman to shatter his most sacred vows. In issue #3, it replicates the choice Superman had to make at the end of that storyline but seeks an alternate route. It navigates a different path towards essentially the same conclusion, yet keeps Superman as a flawless, untarnished character, which could be seen as either noble or problematic.

Epic Battle Sequences Dominate the Miniseries’ Finale

Bryan Hitch Delivers Wide-Screen Spectacle and a Few Emotional Moments, Too

In issue #3 of “The Last Days of Lex Luthor,” the focus shifts more towards Brainiac’s invasion on a global scale and less on individual character developments or unexpected plot turns. Previous issues showcased a fresh, intriguing environment every few pages, but this final installment prioritizes an apocalyptic scenario that necessitates the entire oversized issue to unfold its consequences.

In this scenario, Hitch feels at ease working within this particular mode, and Brainiac proves to be an exceptional adversary for such an encounter. The recurring skull design, multiple duplicates, and never-ending tentacles create a consistently terrifying antagonist that dominates numerous pages and splash panels.

In each scene, whether it’s Superman and Luthor fighting Brainiac in the Fortress of Solitude or running through Metropolis streets, every sequence is unique. Dialogue is skillfully woven throughout these sequences to keep the story moving swiftly, with only a few pauses at key moments. Hitch’s expressive work doesn’t quite reach the same level as the action-packed panels. While Superman and Luthor’s reactions are always apparent, they seem to lack depth and sometimes appear unconnected from the rest of the panel.

In the third installment of “The Last Days of Lex Luthor,” Hitch skillfully orchestrates scenes that resonate strongly. Although the climactic confrontation between Lex Luthor and Brainiac occasionally lacks logical consistency due to varying power levels and abilities, it is visually stunning. The way Hitch portrays Superman and Lex Luthor’s final moments together stirs deep emotions, making it easier for readers to overlook any logical inconsistencies. Despite not reaching the legendary status of Swan’s work from 1986, this sequence still packs a punch.

In the third issue of “Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor,” while it may not become a defining storyline for either character, it introduces a fresh take on their established dynamics. As a follow-up to previous tales, it portrays Superman at his peak performance and presents a lasting, albeit straightforward, perspective on the Man of Steel.

Luthor emerges as the most captivating figure without a doubt, and his decisions during his confrontation with Brainiac significantly revitalize the miniseries. Superman enthusiasts will undoubtedly appreciate this fresh take on a beloved story that has entertained them for years.

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2025-04-30 19:40