The wait is finally over! In the summer of 2023, A Superman story under the DC Black Label banner debuted. Expectations were huge considering the creative team attached. It hit the high bar set and then some. Lex Luthor is mysteriously dying. His only hope is his worst enemy. Superman goes to great lengths to try, but is it all in vain?
Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor #2 by Mark Waid, Bryan Hitch, Kevin Nowlan, David Baron, Richard Starkings and Tyler Smith (Comcraft) continues its’ complex saga between the iconic pair.
Let’s not wait another second and dive into this tale!
Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor #2 by Mark Waid, Bryan Hitch, Kevin Nowlan, David Baron, Richard Starkings and Tyler Smith (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
When dealing with this dynamic, Waid plays heavily off their former friendship. Superman carries a tremendous amount of guilt. Even when the flashbacks show the first “Kryptonite” event, the writing shows how that kickstarts Luthor’s deep hate. Waid keeps Luthor’s ego firmly cemented above anyone he comes across. Seeing where this issue goes, that speaks volumes.
There is a wide range of the DCU covered with this chapter. From the 31st century of the LOSH to the deep depths of the ocean, the travels emphasize the grave stakes. Each visit reflects two aspects. The first is Superman’s unrelenting nobility. Kal-El is fully aware of a doublecross but pays no mind. It’s due to the greater good in everyone he symbolizes. The other is Luthor’s inability to accept he is wrong.
Waid brings this all full circle in the closing pages. The banter between both comes to a thunderous head. It leads one to drop guard and reveal a secret. This unfolds into a spiral of stages. Its’ fallout leaves a change in the stat quo. Readers watch as a surprise weighs in on Luthor’s fate. It is one that escalates the emergency to new heights. The writing nails the landing for this section with much more left in the tank.
Hitch’s are is simply stunning in this chapter. With Nolan and Baron’s assist, the travelling the pair does shines. An incredible two page splash welcomes readers into the 31st Century. Superman smiling and Luthor’s dismay jump in its aftermath. Readers watch as the mood transfers over to the key flashback sequence. Seeing how Kryptonite played into the friendship death speaks volumes. Its’ mood doesn’t linger too long as events shift places.
Themyscira comes to life with a near full page image. Its’ most famous resident is waiting at the gates for the pair. Another full page image shows how welcomed they are. The same can be said for Tritonis. Hitch’s ability to extend the moments is second to none. Each page feels tremendously impactful. The art also captures each emotion pouring out of Luthor. It bleeds over into the closing act. Luthor’s reactions never escape the readers. It continuously adds drama to their struggle for a cure. Events close with another factor crashing the party. This is a moment that throws everything in flux. It also compliments what amazing art has been during this entire series.
OVERALL GRADE: 9.5
The struggle of conscience pushes Clark Kent to his breaking point in another epic chapter. Waid takes Lex Luthor into an emotional rollercoaster with the writing. Hitch’s stunning visuals will absolutely floor fans. If books are at this high level of storytelling, fans won’t mind waiting for another round.
Let me know in the comments below your thoughts on Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor #2. Thanks for reading!