Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Gary Frank; Jon Sibal; Brad Anderson; & Steve Wands
Cover Art by Gary Frank & Brad Anderson
SUMMARY:
In 2018, this 224-page DC Comics compilation again re-released the six-issue 2009-2010 mini-series.
Told in episodic fashion, young Clark Kent and his adoptive parents in Smallville learn of his extraterrestrial origins after Clark’s super-powers become difficult to conceal. A teenage Superboy visits the far, far future courtesy of three familiar Legionnaires, who idolize him. In the third installment, Clark Kent’s first day at The Daily Planet has him meet Lois Lane, Perry White, and Jimmy Olsen amidst a reunion with another ex-Smallvillian: Lex Luthor. Superman’s heroics are tested by Luthor’s new pawns: the Parasite and Metallo. Yet, could the Man of Steel become America’s Most Wanted after incurring the xenophobic wrath of Lois’ father: U.S. Army General Sam Lane?
Note: This paperback’s first run was in 2011. The title was also previously released in 2010 as a ‘deluxe edition’ hardcover.
REVIEW:
The art squad’s visuals (including the covers) are absolutely dynamite – this asset makes Superman: Secret Origin a must-have for Super-fans. Courtesy of Gary Frank, one can visualize Christopher Reeve ‘starring’ in this updated origin tale that homages both the Silver Age and Reeve’s big-screen legacy as Superman. Writer Geoff Johns blends elements from Superman’s more contemporary incarnations to present a familiar tale, with a requisite number of welcome twists. Among them is spelling out how a cynical Metropolis transforms due to Superman’s presence vs. a city where Luthor is its self-appointed savior and reigning celebrity. Admirably on his game, Johns establishes dramatic balance between a pathetic Parasite and John Corben’s ultra-belligerent Metallo as threats challenging a rookie Superman.
The sole off-element is wonky continuity – specifically, the inclusion of Clark as Superboy. Hence, Secret Origin muddles re: Superman was really the first Superboy (rather than his teenage clone or, even later, Lois & Clark’s young son). It also doesn’t help that, conveniently, only Luthor connects the dots between Smallville’s Superboy and this Man of Steel he instantly despises. Luthor’s deduction shouldn’t have been exclusive to him (and, presumably, Lana Lang). Secret Origin’s weakness further extends to the Legion of Super-Heroes. Yes, it’s another nice Silver Age nod (much like a off-screen cameo by Krypto), but Issue # 2 still diminishes the magic of Superman’s unexpected ‘debut’ in Metropolis.
Superman’s Secret Origin is a DC gem worthy of acclaim. Its few scripting faults are minor enough.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There’s a two-page introduction from writer David S. Goyer (fawning over Johns). All the covers (and alternate covers) are reprinted in full-page format. An unused cover image for Issue # 6 is included. There’s brief bios on the creative team.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
