A line in the sand has been drawn. Ra’s Al Ghul wants the last son of Krypton under his wing. Kal-El wants nothing to do with the tyrant. The demon is not known to take “No” for an answer.
Al Ghul has unleashed his forces onto Smallville. How will the residents fare against The Lazarus Corp?
ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #13 by Jason Aaron, Rafa Sandoval, Ulises Arreola & Becca Carey heads into the “Battle Of Kansas”.
Let’s take a closer look into the events of combat.
ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #13 by Jason Aaron, Rafa Sandoval, Ulises Arreola & Becca Carey (DC Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Aaron leaves no doubt in readers minds that war is Hell. The opening salvo shows the viciousness of Al Ghul. Attacking the small town with a powerful army is only one example of the lines crossed. The writing also nails another key component. Superman being a symbol of hope shines bright. Even if this may be a losing cause, readers instantly see there will be no quiet surrender.
Another large part of this chapter is Lois Lane & Jimmy Olsen. Both being on different sides of view, their dialogue shows how both have seen a better path. It is reflected in their actions of defense. Aaron throws in a few more inspiring moments before dashing to the swinging close. Readers sense the struggle to maintain moments. This becomes more complicated as Ghul’s reach grows. It ultimately moves into a dire ending spot. The message is very clear. Hope might not be enough for victory to be achieved.
Sandoval and Arreola display the brutality of Al Ghul’s attack in the opening pages. Seeing the residents stand up to fight is filled with mixed emotions. The two page splash of Superman flying in changes everything. It injects the possibility of hope into play. His near full page flying is responded to by awe from onlookers. It becomes the only bright spot in the hell on earth.
Another full page action shot shows Superman taking down some helicopters. As flashbacks start occurring, the expressions from Lois Lane shows the painful acceptance of reality. Readers watch as the action starts ramping up more. Within these pages, the art goes back to the emotional pulls. It is a very even back and forth. Once the smoke clears, there is a definite ending at hand. A full page shot shows Hope’s final moments as the tides appear to have swung once again. Another very strong visual performance.
FINAL GRADE: 9
The Battle Of Kansas proves to be difficult for the Man of Tomorrow to handle. Aaron pens an excellent view of Superman’s impact in crisis. Sandoval and Arreola construct a realistic and violent view of survival. Judging by the final page, time may be out for Truth, Justice and a Better Tomorrow.
Let me know your thoughts on Absolute Superman #13 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!