REVIEW: ‘Superman,’ Issue #10

Superman #10 is titled, “Unity Saga: House of El, Part 4“ and is published by DC Comics, written by Brian Micheal Bendis, with art by Ivan Reis and Brandon Peterson, inks by Oclair Albert and Joe Prado, colors by Alex Sinclair, and letters by Josh Reed. This issue is also shorter, at 19-pages compared to the usual 24-pages.

Jon Kent’s story comes to a close as he describes his escape from the clutches of an evil, alternate reality version of Louis Lane in the final leg of his journey home. As Jon’s story concludes, Clark decides on what course of action to take next, while Louis continues to come to terms with what she is being told.

Bendis has taken his time over the last three issues getting the story to the point where it can move forward from Jon’s story setting up the narrative and action being taken in the present. While it has been a well crafted series of issues getting to this point, this issue left me with a couple of head scratching points. For the first time, I am left feeling confused about the Superman’s actions, almost to the point where I feel like a page may have been omitted from the copy I read. I hope that the next issue may clear up this situation for me.

While the story may feel like it skipped a beat, Bendis’ writing certainly has not. Clark and Louis continue to feel as real as I can remember them ever feeling, especially Louis. The mixture of feelings, and attitudes she portrays feels completely in line with a parent continuing to struggle with a situation she still can only barely accept. Clark is also wonderfully portrayed with his own mixture of emotion and struggle. The highlight of perhaps the entire book for me was a panel shared by the both of them. It is literally a perfect panel.

Jon is also given his due as Bendis’ writing develops him in way that feel natural. His struggle with his confrontation with the alternate Louis is particularly well handled. I look forward to seeing how much more growth Bendis has in store for the youngest Kent.

The art of Reis and Peterson continues to provide enough contrast to keep past and present distinct, while not making either look out-of-place with the other. Peterson in particular does a magnificent job capturing Jon Kent’s struggles and personality so well I wouldn’t be surprised if this impression of Jon remains the default in my mind long after his work on the book has passed. Albert and Prado’s inks, along with Sinclair’s color provide the finishing touches to the stellar visual presentation.

With the final page promising big things to come, I look forward to what Bendis and company have waiting for me next issue. Even with a bit of a misstep, this story continues to hold my interest and impress in most of the ways I have come to expect. If the plot can straighten itself back out it should have no problems realizing the promise the last few issues have built up for it.

Superman #10 is available wherever comic books are sold.