Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Gary Frank; Jon Sibal; Rob Leigh; & Brad Anderson
Cover Art by Gary Frank & Brad Anderson
SUMMARY:
Published by DC Comics for September 2008, the second chapter of the five-part Brainiac storyline is entitled “Hide & Seek.” At the Fortress of Solitude, Superman and the teenage Supergirl examine the wrecked Brainiac probe. Supergirl reveals her innate fears stemming from Brainiac’s horrific invasion of Krypton she had witnessed (briefly shown in Action Comics # 866). Comforting his cousin, Superman, he is reminded that she misses Krypton far more than he actually does.
Consulting his adoptive parents in Smallville, Clark decides it’s time for a showdown with Brainiac (as the Fortress has reverse-engineered the villain’s whereabouts). Privately, Jonathan Kent and Clark reflect on old memories in the family barn. A quick interlude at The Daily Planet has Lois & Clark privately discuss his recent concerns about Kara/Supergirl. Boorish ex-jock/co-worker Steve Lombard humorously interrupts them. In deep space, the Man of Steel intercepts Brainiac’s attack on an unspecified alien world, which includes a new supernova weapon.
Note: Further mirroring Superman’s live-action films, Steve Lombard (and his boorish antics) resembles actor Gavan O’Herlihy’s sleazy ex-jock Brad Wilson from 1983’s Superman III.
REVIEW:
Artist Gary Frank’s Christopher Reeve-esque Superman is a superb asset, as thee art team’s visuals are again top-caliber. Writer Geoff Johns pens an excellent second act giving Superman a logical incentive to seek an ultimate confrontation with Brainiac. Clark’s interaction with Jonathan Kent is the real highlight, though Superman’s scenes with Supergirl and Lois are also well-played. The cover image of Clark battling Brainiac probes is terrific, though it isn’t an accurate depiction of the battle scene. Action Comics # 867 is a true storytelling gem without inappropriate content for children.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Ian Sattler pens the DC Nation’s mini-interview with JSA Editor Mike Siglain to promote the JSA: Kingdom Come storyline.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 9 Stars
Note: The complete storyline is available in both hardcover and trade paperback form.
