REVIEW: ‘Superman’ Issue #17 (2024)

Superman #17 (2024) is published by DC Comics. It is written by Joshua Williamson, with art and colors by Jamal Campbell and letters by Ariana Maher. This issue is part of the Absolute Power event. Superman and Zatanna take a mystical walk along the Dark Roads, exploring the damaged magical routes of the Multiverse to try and access the Multiverse.

This issue is closely linked to Absolute Power, taking place immediately after the events of the second issue. Superman and Zatanna enter the Dark Roads, a magical pathway that allows them to traverse the planet. It allows them to emerge wherever they like and experience some horrors enacted by Waller’s agents. For much of the issue, there is a feeling of helplessness.

Neither Zatanna nor Superman can use their powers, so they struggle to do anything to stop the villains. There is also a lack of heroes that will turn up to save the day, and their absence is agonising at points. The pacing moves quickly, but the story repeatedly stops to accentuate the unveiled powerful scenes.

Superman #17 (2024) is a journey through the present, but the past holds a considerable sway over the storytelling. The reader is routinely reminded of Superman’s vulnerability to magic, so much so that it becomes a theme of the issue, reaching a defining conclusion by the end of the chapter. As this story goes on, Superman’s supporting cast in Metropolis are finding ways to protect themselves. An unlikely hero emerges during their ordeal as Lois Lane, Lex Luthor, and others take refuge. It is harder to focus on that half of the issue, but it involves more facets of the rest of the event.

Superman #17 (2024) sees a different side to the title character. The man has been through intense trauma, and this issue allows him to begin to process it. After being shot and having his son turned into a soldier for Waller, he is devastated and furious. This makes him prone to lashing out, which Clark has never been known for before. Even without his abilities, an angry Superman is a force to be reckoned with. There is always this burning need in him to stop evil and protect life. However, situations like the ones in this chapter often require a broader worldview; he is needed elsewhere.

The end of Superman #17 (2024) has a speech filled with much more anger and disdain than is ordinarily present within Superman. By his side in this chapter is Zatanna, who has to be Superman’s anchor for much of the book. He is not in the right mindset and needs support and guidance to drag him along and keep him moving. Her dialogue is a soothing balm in an issue filled with volatility.

The art manages to blend cartoons and realism within the same style. Campbell adds dimensions and shapes that are close to 3D, but the faces resemble those found in animation. Superman and Zatanna make a great visual double act, walking and fighting alongside each other. They can be vulnerable and genuine while also capable of being dangerous and strong. Without his powers, Superman is as susceptible to injuries as anyone else.

Seeing Clark’s knuckles bleed after thumping a wall is surprising and a great reminder of his newfound vulnerability. Campbell still ensures that Superman is a prominent, imposing presence, which is essential for what he does late in the issue. The rest of the comic has its severity etched into every line, with some drastic confrontations. Desolation has spread across the DC Universe, and this comic shows that in extreme noise and violence but also in the quiet points, where characters are left cowering and hiding.

The colors are superb. Superman and Zatanna have matching outfits, both dressed in pitch black. They look terrific together with their sleek costumes. But around them, the comic is vibrant and rife with color. One of the first situations the duo encounters is a burning first, and the intensity of the fire is presented through the colors. The flames cover everything, threatening to overwhelm the heroes. And in Metropolis, the city remains bright even in its darkest periods. The lettering is large and easy to read, with large amounts of space within the word balloons.

Superman #17 (2024) hammers home one of the hero’s most famous weaknesses. The advantage that magic users have over the Man of Steel is repeated multiple times in this issue, putting Superman miles out of his comfort zone as he takes the magical journey. He does have Zatanna with him, who is a phenomenal presence inside the issue, but she is also powerless.

Superman #17 (2024) is full of energy, trying to find hope in the most desperate situations. Even as one of the most positive and determined figures begins to falter, parts of the comic still cling to the idea of fighting against Waller and her army. This is provided through a fantastic script and stunning artwork.

Superman #17 (2024) is available where comics are sold.