REVIEW: ‘Superman,’ Issue #3

Superman #3 continues the story of establishing Lex and Superman’s current dynamic. Lex even receives something at the end of the issue that was only reserved for those closest to him. Superman #3 is published by DC and written by Joshua Williamson, art and colors by Jamal Campbell, and Ariana Maher is the letterer. 

Issue #3 picks up with Parasite-infected Superman breaking Lex and Livewire out of prison. Lex has done a poor job of warning Superman since issue #1, but Lex isn’t exactly forthcoming with reasons for why the Man of Steel should take control of LexCorp and work with him. Williamson began this story by using Lex’s coyness to build tension that pays off by the end of issue #2. Issue #3 goes on to lay the foundation for Metropolis’ survival going forward. 

Superman orchestrates a plan to cure himself and the citizens of Metropolis. It’s always nice when a writer remembers that he’s got a super-powered brain. Superman deduces that his infected state is due to microscopic versions of Parasite that can move just as freely as the original.

Williamson’s dialog, combined with Campbell’s art, do a good job of communicating the changes that Superman has gone through between the issues. He seems both compromised physically and mentally. The use of stylized speech bubbles combined with different color lettering is a great storytelling mechanic that’s used perfectly here. The dialogue itself is ironically very reminiscent of Bizzaro, who’s currently being dissected with blue kryptonite scalpels. 

Campbell’s colors are vibrant and really pull you into each page. His use of light makes the panels feel animated. Maher’s lettering is excellent at giving the characters a voice that you can hear in your head. They make sure you’re reading Williamson’s dialog with the correct amount of emphasis on each word. Some words are bolded or a larger font than others. Some even have icicles on them to indicate a chilling tone. 

Issue #3 has elements of the relationship that Superman wishes he had with Lex from the very beginning. Superman’s hope that Lex could be a better man has been an essential part of his character in many adaptations. What you get here is a more realistic compromise given all the heinous things Lex has done; most recently of which is the murder of Manchester Black.

It will also be interesting to see how Superman’s family takes to him working with Lex. In their past partnerships, there weren’t five kids to think about. All of which seem to be sticking close to home based on the first 3 issues.  I personally would like to see them stick with this long-term, but we know how comic characters can be.

Regardless, this run is starting off strong and is a must-read. Superman #3 does a great job of establishing SuperCorp. By the end of it, you’ll be invested in the hope that Lex can turn it around, at least temporarily.

Superman #3 is available wherever comics are sold.