REVIEW: ‘Superman’ Issue #19

Superman #19 is published by DC Comics. Written by Joshua Williamson, art by Dan Mora, colors by Alejandro Sánchez and letters by Ariana Maher. This issue is part of the DC All-In Relaunch. Superman returns to protecting the people of Metropolis, this time with Superwoman by his side.

This book is a new arc but features many aspects that were established long before. The biggest factor is Lois Lane, who now fights alongside her husband with a superpowered suit that provides Lois with similar powers. And for most of the book, that partnership works well. There’s a frantic pace to Superman #19 that is brimming with energy, with the heroes moving from drama to action rapidly.

Even though the story’s origin stems from the previous story arc, it is easy to latch onto and follow. Another plotline runs through the comic, which has hooks even further back in the series. And this is a foe that strikes fear into the heart of every Superman fan. It was only a matter of time before they returned, but it spells disaster every time. Yet Williamson adds a spin to it that makes this new arc intriguing and captivating.

The dialogue and the characters are brilliant. This issue features the classic characters for those returning to Superman comics, or even if it is their first time. The first scene is in the Daily Planet, with Jimmy Olsen running off to get photos of Superman and his new ally. There is a warmth and honesty to these characters. The villain is one of the most iconic figures in the Superman mythos, and with that comes respect and gravitas. Lois is the other crucial figure in this new arc.

It’s great to see one of the most famous damsels in distress in history turned into a hero in her own right, with power and authority. There is still a learning curve, and not every power is immediately available to her. That gives the series room to expand and grow. There aren’t just the class aspects of the Superman series but also the features that Williamson has explicitly implemented for this run. Superman is aided by Mercy and the Supercorps, who have their own story arcs.

The art is gorgeous. Mora steps off of both World’s Finest and Absolute Power into one of the flagship books. The art superbly captures the positivity and thrill of Superman comics.  The iconic imagery of revealing the super logo underneath a shirt has been translated to Lois. When Lois flies, her face shows genuine awe and glee. Lois’ costume is not a mere copy and paste; it has its own unique details.

Metropolis looks fantastic below the Kryptonian and Lois. The details are immaculate, and the city is filled with life. The first villain they face is a chaotic but brilliant design. And yet, it is dwarfed by what comes later, which is essentially a much more extreme and dangerous version than the first.

The colors are vibrant and phenomenal. The sun is shining and the city looks healthy and friendly. The red, blue, and gold that is so synonymous with Superman has been doubled, yet it is still rewarding and doesn’t get tiresome to look at. The enemies threaten the positivity and friendliness of the issue, overthrowing the colors with intense, darker shades. The lettering is excellent and easy to read.

Superman #19 is a shining start to a new arc. Bringing history and extensive storytelling into a new era, the book doesn’t feel bogged down or difficult to understand. The opening sequence of Lois and Clark flying through Metropolis is refreshing and explains the situation with minimal exposition. And even though there is a positive, cheerful beginning, the story swerves into a much more terrifying and uncertain future. Williamson takes an infamous villain, creating a new dynamic and a mind-blowing surprise.

Superman #19 is available where comics are sold.