Publisher: DC
Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artist: Mikel Janin
Colourist: Mikel Janin
Editor: Andrew Marino
Release Date: OUT NOW!
Price: $3.99

DC’s so-called “New 52” universe is being replaced and as a metaphor Clark Kent/Superman is dying. Recent travails took their toll, and instead of abusing his credit cards Superman #51 revolves around him getting his life in order.

In Superman #51, Peter Tomasi takes Clark Kent and streamlines his stages of grief and goes straight from anger to acceptance. Clark doesn’t feel sorry for himself but is disappointed because he’s abandoning people who need help. “Even though I’m getting sicker, there’s always a job for Superman.” So he resolves to fill the hole he’ll leave behind. Meanwhile a mysterious Chinese hacker is trying to infiltrate the Fortress of Solitude’s computer and an apparent Superman clone shows up to complicate things.

Clark’s exchanges with Lana and Lois in Superman #51 are emotional but not melodramatic. Turns out he’s not above wanting a legacy (are you listening, Zach Snyder?) and asks Lois to tell the Clark/Superman story.

Mikel Janin’s realistic art and colouring befits the gravity of the situation. The fake Superman full-page spread is purposely so bright it’s like staring into the sun.

Of course, no matter if Superman dies again he’ll still be brought back for the new DC reboot (sorry, that word makes DC editors cry; so suck it up). But how Clark handles his imminent demise is what’s important. And in Superman #51 it’s all classic Supes and we’re thankful for that. It might be an old dance but like life, death is an old familiar embrace too.

 

Reviewer: Joe Lovece
Reviews Editor: Steve Hooker