Rebirth has reintroduced a number of characters back to the DCU spotlight while also doubling the total number of Superman-related series. Superwoman is one such series that made headway with its decision to place “Lois” as the woman of steel. But don’t we already have a Lois Lane? Is this a “new” Lois? And of course, is it good?
Superwoman #1 (DC Comics)
Let’s start by establishing some background on our current characters. Currently we have two Lois’ in play–one established with the introduction of the New 52 (previously featured in Superman) and another post-Crisis version (featured in Superman: Clark and Lois). So far neither of them have demonstrated any super heroic abilities. We’ve also only witnessed one Superwoman since the New 52 began and she was a member of the Crime Syndicate from Earth-3. However, after reading this first issue, this new series is certainly changing everything we think we know about Superwoman and female heroes in general.
I’ll be honest, this wasn’t even a series I was even planning on reading. Yet after finishing it, I have to say this is one of the most exciting and shocking Rebirth issues yet. There is so much packed into this issue and while it could easily fill the better half of a volume, or an annual at the very least, it doesn’t feel rushed in the slightest. It’s obvious that author Phil Jimenez has cracked the code to producing a single issue comic that’s worth its weight in storyline. And it’s not just the fact that “a lot” happens in this issue, it’s that Jimenez makes it intriguing for both fans and newcomers to the Superman & friends’ arena of the DCU.
Lois and Lana have an interesting relationship.
It’s at this point that you’re becoming irritated by the fact I still haven’t spoiled anything about the issue and that’s because I honestly think everyone should be reading this for themselves. However, if you simply cannot wait, here’s a basic rundown of what happens without spoiling too much. The comic has two main characters, Superwoman and Lana Lang. We soon discover that Superwoman’s identity is Lois Lane, the same New 52 Lois Lane that revealed Superman’s identity. Lois “inherited” these super abilities when she witnessed Superman’s explosive death and has now sought out Lana Lang to assist her with these powers just as she helped Clark growing up. This issue takes place a couple weeks after the Lex/Superman/Doomsday battle in downtown Metropolis and places both Lex and Superwoman in combat together for the first time.
The largest impact of the issue is its illustration of how differently the House of El symbol will be represented by the different members of the Superman family. While Lex wields the symbol as an assertion of power, Superwoman is determined to maintain its representation of hope. Jimenez is also able to create a female-centric series, without any of the stereotypical female empowerment ploys previously used in comics of this nature. These characters are real and their actions and motives speak for themselves without relying on blatant gender commentary. If his writing and plot structure weren’t impressive enough, Jimenez also delivers some stellar artwork that delivers a variety of page setups, spreads, and action sequences worthy of a Super man or woman.
Nice costume!
Is It Good
Superwoman #1 is a reader friendly issue with a comprehensible storyline that will immediately have you subscribing to the series. As a reader you’re quickly drawn to the characters and throughout the issue we’re bombarded with a number of shocking reveals that will fill you with that giddy comic adrenaline we all know and love. I’m not even a particular fan of Superman-related comics, but I consider this one of the best first issues Rebirth has produced. Give it a try and become a fan.
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