Absolute Superman Sets Up Two DC Favorites, But Never Loses Sight of Its Star (Review)

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The Absolute Universe line is consistently excellent, and Absolute Superman is a prime example. Following the dramatic events in Kansas and a storyline involving parasitic creatures, the series is launching a new arc. This arc will introduce two powerful new characters while still keeping the focus on Superman and those closest to him, and Absolute Superman #18 kicks it off brilliantly.

Jason Aaron’s Absolute Superman has been a standout success, especially in how it builds a significant part of this larger shared universe. While Wonder Woman and Batman also explore this world, Absolute Superman delves much deeper. Despite juggling many different storylines, Aaron expertly incorporates the new mythology surrounding Shazam, and does it so well that it leaves readers eager for more. Fortunately, more Shazam stories are already planned.

Rating: 5 out of 5

PROS CONS
King Shazam’s origin feels like a seamless extension of Superman’s mythology The King Shazam parts were so good that I could have read an entire issue of just that
Sandoval and Arreola’s artwork and colors stun, and Carey’s lettering is brilliant
The Al Ghuls’ Storyline Is Unexpected In The Best Way

Artwork of Steel


A comic featuring iconic characters like Superman, Black Adam, and Ra’s Al Ghul needs truly impressive art, and Absolute Superman #18 absolutely delivers. From the moment the Phantom Stranger enters Black Adam’s realm to Superman’s dramatic arrival, the artwork powerfully showcases each character’s personality and presence through visuals alone. This is thanks to the incredible work of artists Rafa Sandoval and Ulises Arreola.

The same holds true for one of the book’s more enigmatic characters who wields a steel hammer. While other characters make grand entrances, this new version of Steel arrives with a striking introduction of their own. There’s a visually stunning scene where the hammer draws bullets from the air, crackling with energy, and the subsequent fight scene is powerfully intense, making you flinch with each hammer blow.

This comic truly shines thanks to Becca Carey’s incredible lettering. It makes every action – from a simple hammer blow to a powerful punch from Superman – feel incredibly real and impactful. Carey doesn’t just focus on the visuals; she expertly uses sound effects to build tension throughout the story. And that final page? It’s a standout moment that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next issue.

Absolute Superman Never Loses Sight of Its Main Character


One of the most remarkable things about this book is Aaron’s ability to develop the broader Absolute Universe while still keeping Superman at the heart of the story. Even with many new characters and their histories, the focus never shifts away from the Man of Steel, which is exactly what you’d expect from a book called Absolute Superman.

This is particularly noticeable with Shazam, as the story begins by detailing their origins. These origins quickly establish important links to the current Superman narrative, and by the issue’s end, everything comes together to reveal not just who Shazam is, but also how they fit into the larger Absolute Superman story in a very compelling way.

The story of Shazam enhances the Superman narrative without diminishing Superman’s character. In fact, it promises to further develop Superman as the series progresses. Adding to the intrigue, Shazam’s connection to the Al Ghuls creates an even more layered relationship, and the introduction of a new Steel character brings additional complexities to the overall story.

As Absolute Superman develops, it successfully integrates new characters and ideas to help its main character grow. As long as the story keeps doing that, it will remain a success.

  • Published By: DC Comics
  • Written By: Jason Aaron
  • Art By: Rafa Sandoval
  • Colors By: Ulises Arreola
  • Letters By: Becca Carey

Absolute Superman #18 is in comic stores now.

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2026-04-01 17:42