Clark Kent would like to be a normal teenager. Being a powerful being from another planet says otherwise. When visiting Metropolis, he came out of hiding to save the day. Little did he realize what a good act would cause.
Now back in Smallville, the teenager of Steel tries living an everyday life. Unfortunately, someone knows his secret and has other plans.
ACTION COMICS #1089 by Mark Waid, Skylar Patridge, Ivan Plascencia & Steve Wands continues its’ Superboy saga.
Let’s take a closer look at where things stand now.
ACTION COMICS #1089 by Mark Waid, Skylar Patridge, Ivan Plascencia & Steve Wands (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Waid throws a huge twist into young Clark’s early adventures. When Mr. Blake arrives at the Kents, it’s already a tense moment. As events progress, it is clear he knows more than he should. The writing plays cat and mouse between the Kents and Blake until a transformation takes place. Blake more like Clark than anyone suspects! Who would think there’s two super powered beings residing in Smallville?
The dialogue paints a clear cut view of Blake’s reasons. Waid walks readers through a previous mission of his involvement. Seeing Clark is unproven, he offers to help ala mentor him. Readers get an injection of high school shenanigans before the real test begins. It’s a fitting challenge for the hero at this stage. What doesn’t fit is the conclusion. There is more that meets the eye concerning the future of Superboy. The story finally seems like it’s hitting a groove and not a moment too soon.
Patridge & Plascencia open with an awkward house call. The Kent’s tentative nature shines in these panels. It plays off Blake’s inquisitive stance. Blake’s reveal comes off with mild flare. There’s enough to connect with the audience about his true self. This helps as he pleads his case involving Clark.
The flashbacks to the space mission come across with a noble feel. Blake sells his case with much conviction. This provides a transition point to the high school aspect. “Normal” life for Clark hits many familiar themes as he sorts through the daily drama. There’s an excellent flying sequence before the real work begins. Once Blake gives him a challenge, the art shows why Superboy is a destined hero. A full page image displays the heroic detail of the young teen. This moves events along to the close. The final page reveals a new secret into play. How this will factor in spells nothing good for a better tomorrow. The art hits all the classic themes for another fun experience.
OVERALL GRADE: 8.3
The world has taken notice of Superboy and one individual makes his intentions known. Waid’s writing constructs a vintage yet complicated tale. Patridge & Plascencia present the traditional themes while having readers watch Clark grow up in front of them. The ending leaves hope for more. Knowing the creative team, that won’t be hard to succeed.
Let me know your thoughts on Action Comics #1089 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!