All-Star Superman Is the Greatest Superhero Comic Ever

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Currently, Superman is experiencing a surge in popularity. The upcoming Superman movie is generating immense excitement this year, and DC Comics is producing some of the finest Superman comics in recent memory. While Batman may outsell Superman in terms of comic books, there’s an undeniable energy driving the current “Super-renaissance.” Since his debut, Superman has been a trailblazer in superhero media, featuring among the greatest superhero stories ever told with the alien adorned in the big red S. However, one Superman story stands head and shoulders above the rest – All-Star Superman by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely. Initially intended to launch the aborted All-Star line, this twelve-issue series is frequently lauded as the best Superman story ever written, but I would argue that it’s not just the finest Superman comic – it’s the greatest superhero comic of all time.

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The reputation of All-Star Superman stands unquestioned. Grant Morrison, one of DC Comics’ most celebrated authors, and Frank Quitely, whose distinctive and captivating artwork is adored by fans, are the masterminds behind this work. All-Star Superman not only meets but exceeds expectations for a superhero comic, outshining classics such as Watchmen, The Dark Knight Returns, or “The Dark Phoenix Saga”. This comic is a testament to what can be achieved when a talented team endeavors to encapsulate a character. However, it surpasses these aspirations, demonstrating the boundless potential of superhero comics.

All-Star Superman Is a Masterpiece of Form and Story

The comic book tale “All-Star Superman” is essentially a straightforward narrative. In this instance, Superman embarks on a rescue mission to safeguard the initial manned voyage to the sun when it encounters peril at the hands of Lex Luthor. Successful in his endeavor, Superman’s abilities are amplified by his proximity to the radiant yellow sun. However, this was all part of Luthor’s strategy, as Superman’s cells begin to disintegrate, ultimately leading to his demise. Facing his own mortality, Superman chooses to depart the world in a better state than when he arrived and commences what will later be recognized as the legendary Twelve Feats of Superman, reminiscent of Hercules’ Twelve Labors in ancient times, as foretold by time-traveling characters within the story.

In essence, “All-Star Superman” encapsulates everything marvelous about Superman, stripping it down to its core. Lois Lane is not only brilliant and breathtakingly beautiful but also left in awe when Superman discloses his true identity. Jimmy Olsen stands as the ultimate best friend anyone could ask for, a resourceful young soul amidst a sea of superheroes. The “Daily Planet” serves as an ideal newsroom, brimming with intriguing characters and the human connections that make Superman comic books so delightful. Lex Luthor embodies pure hatred, a small-minded individual whose envy has hindered him from becoming the person he aspires to be. Despite being the epitome of a hero, Superman retains his humanity, his battles affecting him deeply and manifesting in various emotional moments throughout the comic. Superman can get angry, bewildered, and even sheds tears.

In simple terms, the narrative structure of “All-Star Superman” mirrors its straightforward tale. This twelve-issue series offers standalone stories that contribute to a larger plotline. If this comic had been released during the newsstand era, each issue could have provided a complete story, captivating readers with its engaging plot. Essentially, it’s like a compilation of Superman’s most iconic moments, drawing from different eras (Golden Age, Silver Age, Bronze Age, and modern age) in a way that feels both timeless and fresh. The complexities of DC Comics continuity are irrelevant to this story, making it accessible for readers who haven’t followed Superman for a while. In essence, the entire story is clearly laid out on the pages.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but sing praises for the extraordinary duo of Morrison and Quitely. While “All-Star Superman” may not be one of Grant Morrison’s most intricate tales, it transcends the boundaries of a mere superhero narrative. It’s the tale of a deity who cherishes us, one who is willing to give up anything, endure any hardship, to ensure we reach our fullest potential. The dialogue is both amusing and heartrending, brimming with life-affirming moments; take issue ten’s poignant scene where Superman saves young Regan from the brink of suicide – a moment that has become synonymous with Superman, yet remains as impactful today as it was when first penned. Morrison truly grasps Superman and his world, and every page resonates with this understanding. Quitely’s pencils serve as the binding force; there are scarcely any artists who master visual storytelling as deftly as Quitely does. His portrayal of Clark Kent and Superman makes them feel like distinct entities. His Superman embodies the classic essence of artists such as Wayne Boring and Curt Swan, a true superhero in every sense. Quitely’s character acting is unparalleled; he captures the feelings of each panel with remarkable precision. Few creators can claim to have achieved what he did with Lex Luthor, portraying the character’s arrogance, malicious glee, rage, and underlying sadness so vividly. “All-Star Superman” epitomizes the magical fusion of words and pictures, showcasing their perfect harmony at its finest.

All-Star Superman Stands Tall Above the Rest

Unlike Watchmen or The Dark Phoenix Saga, All-Star Superman doesn’t fundamentally reshape the boundaries of comic storytelling. Unlike The Galactus Trilogy, it lacks grandiose scale, and unlike some comics that delve into societal commentary, this isn’t its focus. Instead, it represents a masterful take on Superman, where two creators skillfully employ every tool at their disposal to narrate the tale of Superman’s demise. It beautifully encapsulates everything Superman and his universe embody, and in doing so, it subtly imparts profound insights about humanity.

As a diehard movie enthusiast who’s got a soft spot for caped crusaders, I can confidently say that diving into “All-Star Superman” is an experience not to be missed. It’s a comic book that resonates with anyone, turning even the most skeptical readers into believers. Unlike some stories that challenge your perception of reality, this one doesn’t have to. Instead, it takes everything we adore about superhero tales and cranks it up several notches. Reading it is like unveiling a hidden treasure; you can’t help but wonder how such brilliance could be packed into these pages, yet here we are.

James Gunn, in his upcoming “Superman” project, seems to have drawn inspiration from the essence of “All-Star Superman”. This feels like a smart move, as it perfectly encapsulates what Superman stands for – the epitome of superheroes. Given that Superman is the pinnacle of our beloved superheroes, this makes “All-Star Superman” the finest superhero tale ever told.

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2025-04-05 23:10