Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Gary Frank; Jon Sibal; BIT; Rob Leigh; & Brad Anderson
Cover Art by Gary Frank
SUMMARY:
Published by DC Comics for December 2008, the five-part Brainiac storyline concludes with “Finale.” Having captured Metropolis, as well as Superman & Supergirl, a triumphant Brainiac unleashes a supernova weapon to annihilate the Sun and Earth. Lois (in Metropolis) and the Kents (in Smallville) can only look on in horror. The two Kryptonians defiantly burst into action. While Supergirl pursues the supernova weapon, the Man of Steel challenges Brainiac. An unexpected explosion releases what becomes New Krypton. Tragedy sends the Man of Steel rocketing to his childhood home.
Note: The somber, beautifully-conveyed cover image is deceptive. This image conveys Brainiac’s somber epilogue from the Superman: New Krypton Special # 1, which occurs next chronologically.
REVIEW:
Action Comics # 870 is stellar! No artist draws Christopher Reeve’s likeness as Superman better than Gary Frank. Frank’s realistic penciling is superb, as one can easily visualize Reeve once more suiting up. Johns’ storyline is up to the task of making Brainiac a worthy Superman antagonist and giving his obsessive world-gathering collection a chillingly ruthless context. Hence, Superman justifiably unloads on Brainiac with unusual fury.
Wisely finishing with a near-wordless montage, Johns & Franks’ masterpiece reaches its poignant conclusion. Echoing a pivotal scene from 1978’s “Superman: The Movie,” Johns & Frank deliver a very Reeve-like Superman at the end. This creative team ensures that readers get their money’s worth.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
In the “DC Nation” column, Eddie Berganza hypes the DC Universe Special – Halloween ’08. There’s also cover reveals for Green Arrow/Black Canary # 13; Trinity # 19; Wonder Woman # 25; and Superman: New Krypton Special # 1.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 10 Stars
Note: The complete storyline is available in both hardcover and trade paperback form.
