Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews
Superman: Lois & Clark
DC Comics
Jurgens, Weeks, Hanna & Anderson
"Superman: Lois and Clark" is DC's attempt to keep a classic version of the Superman character that was around for decades before being dumped in favor of the grim and gritty Superman that exists in DC's Universe today. This comic book is different from the short-lived Adventures of Superman comic book because this character is now part of the current continuity of the DC comic line whereas Adventures was totally out of continuity. This issue focuses on character work but provides enough sub-plot development to show that big things are on the way. I recommend giving this book a shot.
The biggest question coming into this comic book is how do Superman and Lois Lane end up in the current DC Universe. Honestly, this comic book doesn't answer that. It attempts to summarize events in Convergence and potentially other story lines but it doesn't explain the "how" very well. They are "here" and they have a baby. Superman decides he needs to keep a low profile for a couple of reasons. The main reason is that this universe already has a Superman. Also, this universe seems to not trust Superman (or any heroes), which makes sense seeing as how none of them see to have a personality that is endearing.
Years pass and the baby becomes a boy. Lois writes some world-changing novels, as an anonymous author, while Superman does some super-hero stuff, but in a different costume and with a beard. He doesn't interact with others. However, he does keep tabs on villains and potential villains. This seems to be the plot for the next issue.
The comic book is great because it brings two great characters back into the fold. For decades Lois and Clark were a couple and they made a great couple on screen and on paper. This comic book captures that relationship perfectly.
The comic also nails the setup for the family. The reasons to stay hidden, the changing of their name, the visual changes and everything else all work to make this comic book make sense in the frame of the current DC Universe. It also allows them to seem more unique from everything that's come before.
The artwork is very good. The comic book doesn't have a ton of action so the artwork is required to do some heavy lifting with the character work. Thankfully, the artwork captures the dialogue and personalities very well. The charm of the characters is enhanced greatly by how they look and react to each and that is a strong testament to the artwork. The comic book provides a strong visual characterization of Clark and Lois and that is important in this type of story.
"Superman: Lois and Clark" is a comic book for the fans of the characters in the Pre New 52 DC Universe. That isn't to say that only those fans will enjoy this comic book because the characters are in the current incarnation of the DC Universe and may play an important role there going forward. The book provides solid writing and solid artwork but focuses on establishing these characters rather than a plot. Now that they have done that, the comic book needs to show what it can do with this type of cloaked super hero. I recommend giving this a read, especially if you enjoy the classic characterizations of Superman and Lois Lane.
3.5 out of 5 Geek Goggles
