Written by James Robinson.
Art by Renato Guedes; Wilson Magalháes; Hi-Fi; & John J. Hill.
Cover Art by Alex Ross.
SUMMARY:
Released by DC Comics for November 2008, this issue is entitled “The Coming of Atlas, Part 4: Man of Yore, Dog of Tomorrow.” In downtown Metropolis, amongst hundreds of onlookers (including his wife, Lois Lane), the Man of Steel has been seemingly pummeled into submission by the mystical Atlas.
Krypto takes desperate measures by attacking Atlas and distracting him to allow a bloodied and bruised Superman a brief escape. Watching an overmatched Krypto viciously go after Atlas time and again, Lois poignantly realizes that she was wrong about criticizing Krypto’s canine behavior. Meanwhile, a mysterious observer intervenes by secretly dousing Krypto with waves of radiation – to no effect.
With Zatanna Zatara unavailable, Superman must then gamble upon magical advice from her ultra-conceited teenage cousin, Zachary. The Man of Steel returns to battle to save a defiant Krypto from Atlas’ furious wrath.
Note: This issue is also available digitally.
REVIEW:
Though his ‘mysterious observer’ sub-plot isn’t satisfyingly explained, writer James Robinson delivers a knockout (pardon the expression) homage to the Dog of Steel. Including well-played moments for Lois Lane and Superman (i.e. his mild disgust meeting Zachary Zatara), Robinson’s story ensures that Krypto is its MVP. Including his plausible thought balloons, Krypto’s heroism gets its just due. Even more so, the art team’s stellar visuals (including the Alex Ross cover) effectively complete a dynamite Superman # 680.
For fans of Krypto, this issue proves a must-have.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
DC’s Mike Carlin pens the “DC Nation” column and hypes Trinity # 17. Thumbnail cover reveals feature the Superman – New Krypton Special # 1; Teen Titans # 63; Reign in Hell # 3; and Ambush Bug: Year None # 3.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
