The fear of the unknown. This is the problem facing a young Clark Kent. After revealing “Superboy” in Metropolis, Kent has garnered unwanted attention. The government is very interested in what he is about. They are not above nefarious means to accomplish this.
Using Captain Comet as a mentor, General Lane and his team have Superboy right where they want him. Are they really ready to see what Superboy is all about?
ACTION COMICS #1091 by Mark Waid, Skylar Patridge, Ivan Plascencia & Steve Wands continues its look at the early days of Superboy.
Let’s take a closer look at how things play out.
ACTION COMICS #1091 by Mark Waid, Skylar Patridge, Ivan Plascencia & Steve Wands (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Waid keeps the classic themes rolling in this chapter. The standoff with the army sets a steady pace to move things along. Watching the Kents react to Comet’s betrayal provides enough drama to offset the high school Hijinx. These moments construct his early days, but don’t add to the overall picture here. That belongs to Captain Comet.
Readers watch as Comet’s games provide real teaching. The inexperienced hero is being challenged. This builds into a stronger payoff in the closing act. The writing shows Comet’s tough love methods. It is reflective of his current status’ heavy weight. This shows Comet in a new perspective. It also brings Clark into his own a s a hero. The games that have been played present true value. This pushes towards a fitting end to events. It re-assures the audience of what Clark is facing and how to handle it. A solid showcase into the past indeed.
Patridge & Plascencia open with a loud beginning page. The full image shows Clark held up, trying to process what’s occurred. Readers see a quiet use of powers end this initial start. Clark’s worry takes over as he returns home. The images feature the family discussing what happened. There is a sense of uncertainty that fills panels. It takes a pause while the high school times roll in.
Superboy’s time with Comet begins with a rescue mission. The panels are brief but assist in leading into the closing act. Comet’s experiments page gives a dire aura as Superboy enters frame. This pushes events into a heated conversation. The emotions run high for Clark as he presents his point. It’s equally matched by Comet’s calm. The result is a deeper understanding of the big picture happening here. This leaves the final page sending this story into the finish. Panels are simple but hit the marks before bowing out.
OVERALL GRADE: 8
The life lessons of being a super hero get some extra credit in another solid issue. Waid pens a emotionally driven final act through the drama. Patridge & Plascencia give an energetic look to the high school times via the art. It’s a vintage throwback to yesteryear that readers can appreciate.
Let me know your thoughts on Action Comics #1091 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!