All-Star Superman #2, published by D.C. Comics, 32 pages, $2.99.
I've always had a special kind of respect for the Superman character, even though it's been over ten years since I bought issues of a Superman series with any regularity. He was the first superhero, after all. However, in my opinion, it's been a long time since anyone had a fresh (or even imaginative) take on the property. That may have changed as of the second issue of D.C. Comics' All-Star Superman.
Except where the art is concerned, this issue stands head-and-shoulders above the first issue of the series. Writer Grant Morrison gives readers a truly imaginative tale of "Superman's Forbidden Room".
We experience it largely through Lois Lane's eyes.
The Man of Steel has invited her to his Fortress of Solitude for the scoop of a lifetime; the true identity of Superman. Her reaction and eventual predicament is... well, it's entertaining. I'll let you discover why. Also entertaining are the wonders found within the Fortress. From the key to Superman's "house", that's perfectly safe just lying around, (again, you'll see why) to the Time Telescope, the baby sun-eater and more, Morrison has, for the first time in ages, made a Superman book interesting, even fun, to read.
Of course, the amazingly detailed and expressive art of Frank Quitely doesn't hurt. Not only does Quitely have to be given credit for making the attractions of Superman's home a joy to look at, with their superb detail and intricacies, but he also gives Superman the perfect look; confident and capable, yet, at times, strangely naive, even innocent. The pure-hearted hero with the near-godlike powers. Not how the character was originally envisioned by his creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, but I have always thought it suited him.
So, as I plan to be back for the third installment, All-Star Superman is recommended for all but the youngest readers, as there is some near-nudity ala Lois Lane. Find it at your local comics shop.
by Mark Allen
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