2011 Year In Review Part Three: Wrap-Up And Top Ten Supergirl Moments

The new year is just around the corner and that means that 'Best of' lists for 2011 are everywhere. And, as I have done the last three years, I will join in the fun by looking back at the year and picking the Top Ten Supergirl moments that happened over 2011. Now I know I am long-winded usually ... and I am reviewing a year ... so bear with me. This is a long post!

2011 was a crazy year for comics in general and it was no different for Supergirl. It was something of a wild ride.But one thing I have to say, she remained in the spotlight of the DCU, not only in comics but outside of comics as well. I haven't always been able to say that so any year I can, it has to be a good thing.

Supergirl remained an active topic in the merchandise world with no less than 4 statues solicited by DC Direct. While the Michael Turner mini-statue was in some ways a re-solicit, we also got a full size Adam Hughes Women of DC statue, an Amanda Conner based Women of DC bust, and a Supergirl portion of a Superman Family multi-statue. We even had a Polly Pocket Supergirl as well and Heroclix of Supergirl, Superwoman, and BizarroGirl. Obviously, she must be a pretty popular character to warrant such merchandising.

And in terms of other media, we learned that she will be part of the DC Nation block on Cartoon Network. She will be part of the Super Best Friends shorts, produced by Lauren Faust of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic fame. That is a great way for the character to branch out to a new audience. Love the costume too.

But this post is about Supergirl in comics. In 2011, the 'old' Supergirl title had two major arcs. The first, by writer James Peaty and artist Bernard Chang, seemed to pick up right where Sterling Gates/Jamal Igle's run left off, with Supergirl still sort of reeling and regrouping from New Krypton, wondering about her place in the world. While the villain's motives were murky, the characterization of Kara was spot on making this a big success in my mind. The next arc by writer Kelly Sue DeConnick and artist ChrisCross had a lighter feel to it, a bit more of a  fun and rollicking story. But in the end that feeling and the story's conclusion was perfect for it to be a capstone for that incarnation of Supergirl. And James Robinson and Paul Cornell had her play major parts in the adventures of the Justice League and the Reign of Doomsday.

And then the relaunch happened and we had another Kara crash land on Earth, feeling lost and alone and confused. Early publicity material made her sound unlikeable but so far so good as this Kara tip toes her way into the DCnU.

So with all that going on it was tough to pick my top ten moments. I had plenty of them. But here they are:

#10 - "She's Magnificent" - Superman/Batman Annual #5, James Robinson and Miguel Sepulveda

As blog friend John Feer often says 'there is nothing like some Kara-tharsis!' And the Reign of Doomsday was a perfect storyline for that sort of unbridled action where Supergirl got to cut loose. In this scene, after having just shaken off the anguish of Dark Supergirl (more on that later), Supergirl just lays the hammer down on Doomsday coming within a cat's whisker of defeating him. This was just great. And Miguel Sepulveda's art (aside from the high heeled boots which I really dislike) captures the moment perfectly.

But what really kicked this into the top ten over any other moment of strength is Batman's response when he sees Supergirl on the offensive. Grayson can only say 'She's magnificent' as he watches her batter Doomsday. I have to concur. She is. And I think James Robinson really loved her as a character as well.

#9 - "Super Intuition" - Supergirl #65, Kelly Sue DeConnick and ChrisCross

Kelly Sue DeConnick's short arc was a fun, up-beat story filled with laugh and love. It really was something of a breather after the somewhat heavier arcs that preceded it. This was Kara hanging out at college, meeting friends, and meeting a guy she was attracted to.

But DeConnick also put some Supergirl history into her story, sort of nods to the past. Stanhope was the school that Supergirl was visiting. And here we have a mention of super-intuition! Super-intuition was one of Kara's goofier and less defined powers of the Silver Age. So to see it again, even as a bit of a snark by Supergirl, was greatly fun. I appreciate any time creators recognize Supergirl's history and translate it to the current continuity.

#8 - "Grounded Facepalm" - Superman #713, Chris Roberson and Eddy Barrows

So I could probably write books about the problems that I had with Grounded as a storyline. In particular, J. Michael Straczynski's early issues were cringe-worthy, making Superman act like an elitist jerk more than a hero.

Handed the reins, Chris Roberson did his best to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear. Roberson's issues had Superman reconnecting with his friends and family and getting a better understanding of his role on Earth. That said, Roberson could have had Supergirl and Superboy play a bigger role in that psychological healing. Instead, we only have this brief moment from Superman #713 before a complete stranger helps Superman (lost opportunity there for Kara to help her cousin in my mind).

Still, I love this moment because it actually summed up my feelings for this arc. After several issues where Superman seems to be on the road to recovery he suddenly decides to stop being Superman out in the open. Kara's response is perfect ... the face palm. That is exactly how I felt that moment. I just wanted this arc to end, I wanted Superman to act like Superman again. And to have him take a step back had me rolling my eyes.

So plant that face in your palm Supergirl! I was right there with you!

#7 - "Bizarro Girl Action Comics #252 Redux" - Tiny Titans #42, Art Baltazar and Franco

I have gushed about Supergirl in Tiny Titans too many places to count. And this year was no different with Supergirl having several great moments in the book.

This panel stood out as the best of the best. Here BizarroGirl arrives on Earth. But this panel is clearly an homage to Supergirl's first appearance in Action Comics #252. Even the dialogue is a riff on that classic picture. As I said before, creator acknowledgments of Supergirl's history are greatly appreciated. I feel as if the creators recognize her and her history as meaningful when it is done. So this was wonderful.

But add to that that it is BizarroGirl arriving here just added another layer of awesome. She is a great character. And she is a new rogue for Kara and a remnant of the Gates/Igle run. I am glad that there is some permanence to the character.

It is sad to see this comic ending.

#6 - "Outsmarted" - Supergirl #64, James Peaty and Bernard Chang

In 'Good Looking Corpse', James Peaty had Supergirl facing off against Alex, the petulant, smarmy, and overconfident clone of Dubbilex. Alex dripped superiority, laughing in the face of pathetic humanity as he plotted.

So this was just a fantastic comeuppance by a Supergirl who had, over the course of the arc, realized that she is a leader, a worthy eventual successor of Superman, and finally in the big leagues. It is a different sort of Kara-tharsis, more subtle but almost more devastating. That is a powerful looking Supergirl, towering over the fallen Alex, almost gloating, as she says 'this must be a new experience for you .. exposed, powerless, outsmarted'. It is the most cutting insult she could give him. And it was Supergirl who did the outsmarting, beating him at his own game ... and maybe rubbing it in just a bit.

Now that is a great Supergirl moment.

#5 - "Big Brother" - Justice League #60, James Robinson and Daniel Sampere

The relaunch of the DCU meant the dissolution of James Robinson's Justice League. One thing I loved about that run was the relationship that Robinson set up between the Dick Grayson Batman and Supergirl. From the beginning Robinson said that they would have a big brother/little sister relationship, not a tawdry one.

Throughout the run it was great to see Dick take Kara under his wing, trying to get her to open up a bit, to befriend him, to trust him. And it was fun to see Supergirl become so protective of him, rushing to his defense a number of times while shouting 'Grayson'. It just seemed natural that Dick, who grew up in the shadow of a legend, tried to find his own way, and inherited a legacy would be the perfect confidante for Supergirl, someone who constantly compares herself to her cousin and finds herself lacking.

This hug, as the team is disbanding, was a quiet moment showcasing that familial love the two had. They'll always be there for each other. Hmmm, this would also be a good World's Finest comic too.

#4 - "Forgive Yourself" - Superman/Batman Annual #5, James Robinson and Miguel Sepulveda

One of the most compelling parts of Sterling Gates' run was the psychological fallout Kara suffered in the aftermath of New Krypton. She went missing. She cut her hair. She swore off being Supergirl. She was grieving on the inside, suffering survivor's guilt, and trying to figure out the best way she could shield herself from more pain as well as make sure she didn't cause anymore harm.

Those themes were re-examined by James Robinson when he had Kara again take on the mantle of Dark Supergirl. This wasn't the evil Dark Supergirl that was seen in the earliest Loeb/Churchill issues. This was a bratty and superficial Supergirl, someone trying hard to ignore her feelings but hiding behind a facade of irreverence. But it was clear that wasn't her.

In the Superman/Batman Annual #5, Dark Supergirl is told that she is dying. The only way to be cured is to save herself psychologically. She needs to shake off this phony persona of Dark Supergirl. She needs to accept who she is. And she needs to forgive herself. While many of these themes were seen in the BizarroGirl arc, I feel like emotional catastrophes don't just disappear. They can relapse. I thought Robinson handled those emotional themes well and did it in a novel way. When Supergirl forgives herself, rids herself of that guilt, she dons the classic blue costume and became the Kara we all love again.

#3 - "Respect From Damien" - Supergirl #62, James Peaty and Bernard Chang

I have talked about 'Good Looking Corpse' earlier in this post and in the honorable mentions post. In that arc, Supergirl has to come to the realization that she holds a pretty special place in the DCU, that she is a worthy successor of Superman and in his league. Kara was her own worst critic at times, the sign of a growing hero wondering where she was on the journey.

But another part of that analysis of her place in the DCU came externally in the form of respect from the other young heroes. So when Supergirl comes up with an intricate plan to defeat Alex, when she recruits Blue Beetle, Miss Martian, and Robin, they all fall in line behind her. So we hear how Miss Martian looked up to Supergirl, was in awe of her.

Perhaps the biggest compliment she could get was from Damian Wayne. Damian has always come across as someone who looks down on everybody as an inferior. He is someone whose respect you have to earn. And that doesn't come easy. Here he says that he is following her into battle because he has been watching her and she has 'passed the test'. Outside of Bruce, Dick, and maybe his mother, I don't know if he respects anyone. Add Supergirl to that short list. She is the leader of the next generation of heroes. I loved this scene.

#2 - "Don't You Forget About Me" - Supergirl #67, Kelly Sue DeConnick and ChrisCross

The announced end of the DCU allowed some creators to have a bit of closure with their characters. So whether it was Paul Cornell having Clark and Lois profess their love, or Bryan Q Miller having Steph say 'it's only the end if you want it to be', creators got the chance to have their characters say goodbye.

Kelly Sue DeConnick gave us a great moment of closure to the last incarnation of Supergirl. It isn't Supergirl that says goodbye to us, that asks us to remember her ... it's Linda. While Supergirl survived into the DCnU, it is unclear if Linda Lang did. And from a longevity point of view, Linda Lang is a blip on Supergirl's history, existing only 2+ years out of 50.

And Linda is a decent symbol for that incarnation of Supergirl. Early we saw that this was going to be a troubled Supergirl. She jumped from her rocket naked, she was brainwashed by Darkseid, she beat up other heroes, went Dark, beat up more heroes, complained about being a hero, wanted to rave dance instead of save people, was proud of sneaking into a bar as an underaged girl by wearing a tight shirt, wanted to kill Superman, gunned down her high school with her father, and grew crystal spikes from her body.

That was about as far from who Supergirl is as you could get.

And then Sterling Gates and Jamal Igle came on board, rehabilitated her character, acknowledged the prior bumps in the road but moved past them, set up the Linda Lang identity, and restarted Kara on the hero's journey. And within their run, and James Peaty's, and DeConnick's, Supergirl and Linda learned some hard life lessons but always grew from them, always strived to do what was right. And when she failed she dusted herself off and kept moving forward. These writers seemed to embrace the core of what makes Supergirl Supergirl, that need to do what's right, to help people, to embody hope.

It had been a while since I felt like the creators understood the character. Then I got 3 years of stellar stories. And then DC erased that Supergirl.

So thank you for this moment and this story Kelly Sue. And thank you Sterling Gates and Jamal Igle and James Peaty and Bernard Chang. And Matt Camp. And ChrisCross. Thanks for letting me read the true Supergirl again.

And don't worry Linda. I won't forget.

#1 - "Last Daughter Of Krypton" - Supergirl #1, Mike Johnson, Michael Green, and Mahmud Asrar

Whether you were for a reboot or against it, there is no denying that the DCnU relaunch, the New Fifty-Two, was the biggest event of the comic year.

And by extension, there is no denying that the relaunch of a new Supergirl has to be the top moment in 2011.

So what is this Supergirl going to be like? The early promo material described her as someone isolated, someone with no affection for humanity, someone more likely to fight with her friends, Hell on wheels ... so don't piss her off. Again, that just didn't sound like Supergirl to me, not what she has represented for this half century. I was admittedly worried ... and maybe even a bit perturbed given how far the last Supergirl had come. This seemed like a giant step backwards.

That said, so far in the comic, this Supergirl hasn't been that off-putting. She's confused. And sad. And angry.

But she stopped fighting when innocents were endangered. And she listened to Superman for a bit. I haven't seen the stark description of a disaffected hero in the book at all. While the jury is still out, as I said above so far so good.

Writers Mike Johnson and Michael Green have given me some optimism in the face of the unknown. And Mahmud Asrar's art has been amazing. I have hope that this Supergirl will soar just as high as the last one. But those are some pretty big shoes to fill.

And that's my Top Ten Supergirl moments for 2011. Please let me know if you think I'm off my rocker, or forget a major scene, or if you think I got the rankings wrong!

Review: Superman #3

Superman #3 came out last week, the latest chapter of the new Superman 'current' continuity. Unlike the '8 years ago' storyline unfolding in Action, this is the Superman in the now, an established hero with everything that comes with that. It is interesting therefore, that writer George Perez is starting off this new chapter in Superman history with an arc about how people distrust the Man of Steel. That is already being played out in Action and has just been examined back in 'Grounded' in the old DCU.

While this isn't exactly the story line I would have chosen either to reinvigorate the Superman mythos or bring in new readers, I will commend Perez on writing the more dense comics on the market right now. There is no decompression here. Instead we have a lot of story, a lot of dialogue, a lot of mystery. And that makes me happy as a reader. I feel as if this is a comic where money is well spent.

This issue also marks the first issue with Nicola Scott on as art. Scott seems to be aping the prior issues by Merino, or is following Perez's layouts closely as this has the same feel as the first two issues. That isn't a left-handed compliment. The book is beautiful and I like when there isn't a jarring change in art styles in one arc.

One thing that has not been clearly defined yet in this new DCnU, is Superman's relationship to the Kents. All along I have said that it was the Kents that made Clark Superman. It was their upbringing that made him who he is. We know they aren't alive in this new universe. And we know that their lack of presence makes Superman 'edgier' in Action. But my hope was that Morrison or DC in general weren't going to downplay their impact on Clark.

So this opening scene, with Clark visiting his parents' grave (all as we hear reporter Billy McCoy talking about Superman's mysterious past and lack of history) made me happy.

But we then are brought to the PGN war room where McCoy is trying to convince the staff to produce a piece discussing the dangers of Superman to Metropolis. His conclusion is clear, villains come to Metropolis to make a name for themselves by defeating Superman. And the collateral damage is not worth the price.

I did like this panel where we see 'Professor Fleischer' and his giant robots. It has to be an homage to the Fleischer studios cartoons and their first episode 'The Mad Scientist'.

McCoy continues that the deaths from these super-villain attacks are Superman's fault. Despite the good that Superman has done (including a quick recap of the events seen so far in Action Comics), McCoy thinks the cost of life is too high. You only see a snippet of the panel with the face pictures of the dead, a nice panel driving home the point.

But I did like that the other PGN staff, especially Lois, defend Superman. I am glad that the cynicism against heroes hasn't completely invaded the DCnU.

The latest victims of Superman are the homeless person and security guard 'possessed' by the fire demon and invisible alien from the first two issues. Lois and Perry are hoping that Clark might recognize the homeless man (seen walking with the security guard out of the hospital where the guard was being held).

Lois and Perry both know that something is wrong with Clark and I liked that Perez writes a short but thick scene where the two talk about their worries about their friend. Is it simply that the Planet has linked with GBS? Is it more than that? At the very least, this shows the depth of these relationships, something not spelled out quite yet in the DCnU.

In the meantime, Clark streaks back to Metropolis because he is late for a piece he is shooting with Heather Kelley about the destruction of some low income housing.

Kelley has romantic feelings for Clark and is trying to find a way inside. In some ways, I thought this was the most interesting part of the issue. A new character with romantic feelings for Clark? While it might be cliche, I think it would feel fresh to see how Clark would react to this, especially given his unrequited feelings for Lois. We haven't seen a different love interest in Superman books in a long time. While I miss the Clark/Lois marriage, this could have been interesting to watch play out.

I don't know if we will see it. At Kelley's site, just as Superman arrives in the town, an ice entity erupts freezing everything around it. And it's voice, while spouting alien gibberish, is Heather's. She has been 'possessed'.

And her powers are immense, not just freezing the people in her wake but actually turning them to ice!

Again, it is a vestige of the older universe but I love that with a major chunk of the city frozen, with countless citizens turned to ice, Superman still checks up on Lois individually.

He's got it bad!

Heather is actually at the base of a winter tornado which is topped with the ice woman. So she isn't exactly the demon ... maybe just channeling her? Anchoring her to this reality?

Whatever she is, she says Krypton just like the prior aliens who have attacked the city.

Without any better idea, Superman decides to sever to connection between Heather and the ice woman with heat vision.

You know what I loved here? Superman saying he won't kill. Wonderful.

The tactic works. And with the connection severed, everything goes back to normal. The ice disappears. The people become people again. None of the destruction seemed to have happened ... the same as with the fire demon from issue one. That is perplexing.

But even with the ice demon gone, Kelley remains possessed. And now she has joined up with the other humans effected like her. And now they aren't just saying 'Krypton'; they are saying 'Clark Kent'.

So I am intrigued by this alien storyline. It wonder how all of this will come together, who these things are and why they are attacking Superman. It seems strange that they have such different powers. And why do their efforts disappear when they are repelled?

The undercurrent of a gloomy Clark and a distrusting city populace is the part I am not that interested in. Think about the last Superman reboot, the Byrne stuff. Those earliest stories had Superman settling into his new history, meeting and defeating his rogue's gallery, acting heroic and being accepted. I thought the energy in those issues was palpable and Byrne made Superman exciting and meaningful again. I don't know if playing up this element of Superman is the way to go.

We are halfway through this arc and I seem to be enjoying it more as it progresses.

Overall grade: B

Review: Superman #714

Superman #714 came out this week and was a fascinating issue to read for a number of different reasons.

First off, this was the final chapter of the 'Grounded' storyline, an arc that I have maligned in places and praised in others. In some ways I think the timing was simply off. After New Krypton, after years of Superman away from the title and away from his supporting cast or even his rogue's gallery, sending Superman on a walk away from who he is wasn't what I was looking for. Add to that the relatively awful portrayal of Superman in the early issues of this storyline followed by the  PR hit of JMS leaving the book after being given the keys to the kingdom, and the arc seemed somewhat doomed.Certainly, I don't think 'Grounded' will stand the test of time as classic arc, referenced and mentioned by comic fans in the years to come. Sure, the cover says '"Grounded" No More!' but in my head I was thinking 'No More "Grounded" !!!!'

But there is more than just that here. This was the last issue for *this* Superman, the last issue before the relaunch of the DCnU. As such, this is the capstone of the last 25 years. Sure, the Superman here looks very different from the one John Byrne introduced in The Man of Steel. But it is the same character and we are saying goodbye to him. As a result, this issue needed to allow us to not only say goodbye to Grounded but also goodbye to the post-Crisis Superman. And as a finale, this needed to celebrate everything that makes Superman who he is.

Chris Roberson took over "Grounded" once JMS left the arc and has done his very best to resuscitate the book and Superman. And for the most part I think he has done a very very good job, having Superman work his way back to his roots rather than walk away from them. Last issue was something of a speed bump in the improvement of the book, Superman taking a step backwards in his overcoming his depression. Thankfully, Roberson rebounds nicely here ending the story and the title neatly, showcasing the basic concepts of the character of Superman. Yes, maybe their is a bit of whiff of sentimentality here but this is a goodbye issue. I expected sentiment.

And it was an absolute joy to see Jamal Igle's work on this issue. To see all that subtlety in character expression and body language again, adding to the story, making it a fuller experience was a joy. Heck, we even got to see him draw Linda Lang again!

The story picks up right where last issue left off, with the possessed school teacher threatening Lois and demanding a showdown with Superman.

Realizing that this is a job for him, Superman reclaims his costume off the tree stump where he left it that issue and flies into the fray. With a quick blast of heat vision, he is able to grab Lois and whisk her away. Dropping her off miles away, Superman promises to talk to Lois as soon as the threat passes. She also wants to talk to him.

The lack of Lois as a way to ... well ... ground Superman has been one of the things I have not liked about this story. Still, it was nice to see that the two are willing to hash things out here.

After a brief skirmish in the street with the typical property damage, Superman hopes to take the fight to a safer place. He calls upon the Superman Squad to open up a portal into Still Zone where their headquarters is.

It's a smart way to defuse the situation. There is no need to fight here, trapped in this realm. So the two may as well talk.

And so we learn about what happened to teacher Miss Jennings from Ohio.

It turns out the crystal she grabbed was an 'interrogation sunstone', a way of extracting memories from one Kryptonian mind and put it in another. Unfortunately, Jennings grabbed it just as Superman walked by, absorbing his super-depression, his doubt and fear and sadness.

The art works so well here, especially the shot of Jennings distorted face through the crystal, showing how she has become warped. Great stuff there.

I wonder if that was really what the crystal was supposed to be in JMS' version of this story.

Filled with that super-negativism, Jennings became the living embodiment of Superman's depression. And as time passed it gave her great power, both physical strength and the ability to warp Superman's perceptions.

Roberson actually shows us some of these events where Superman's senses were distorted. One of the more vile scenes in Grounded was the woman in the park telling Superman to take off, equating him to a gun. Here we see she said practically the opposite. We have seen this throughout the story ... panels from Superman's point of view are very different from panels shot from the reverse ... scowling people becoming smiling people, etc. This panel shows that Superman is still an inspiration for people.

Still, I don't know if I quite understand Jennings' motivations though. So as the living embodiment of Superman's depression, she wants him to become more and more depressed? At times she seems angry to have all these negative feelings in her head. You would think she might want him to get better.

In the middle of this exchange is this moment, probably my favorite of the book.

Superman apologizes to Jennings. He isn't angry at what she has done. He is sorry that he has caused her so much pain. That is pure Superman.

But even better, he finally voices that he is a victim of the destruction of New Krypton, suffering with guilt and grief. And he won't let anyone else be a victim of that tragedy. The destruction of New Krypton should be weighing on him; I was glad to see him actually say it.

If the crystal has filled Jennings with the negative feelings he has had maybe Superman can overwhelm the crystal with all of the good feelings he has reclaimed over his walk across America.

Grabbing the crystal,Superman floods it with hope. He remembers truth (an image of a young Clark with Pa), justice (shaking hands with Batman), and the American Way (looking up at the flag - defined as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness by Roberson). All very nice images that show where Superman has come from, who he is. These feelings overload the crystal, exploding it.

Now I could pull out just last issue where Superman wasn't feeling so wonderful and warm and fuzzy, throwing off his costume. That's why last issue's opening scene with Supergirl and Superboy was such a step backwards.  Or I could ask why Superman heard all the good things the people had to say to him at the end of last issue if Jennings was warping how he perceived things. Or I could say this was a little schmaltzy.

But the truth is Superman stands for hope and truth and justice and the American way. To see him win a battle just on his convictions actually worked for me here. With the crystal gone, Superman answers the question nagging him. Must there be a Superman? The answer is yes.

Suddenly 'grounded', suddenly himself again, refilled with his beliefs and heroic ideals, there is little left for Superman to do but patch things up with the people he has hurt. First and foremost is Lois.

It is a short reconciliation scene, but he and Lois make up quickly. Appropriately, Superman apologizes to Lois.

But I can't thank Roberson enough for this portion where Lois shows why she is the right partner for Superman, why she is so strong. For me the worst issue of 'Grounded' was the issue where Superman manhandled Lois asking her to bury a story. Here she says she still ran it. Truth is one of her values, as much as it is for him. That's why Lois can stand that so close this icon. She is one herself.

And then he hands out signal watches to the expanded Superman family, including Steel, Super-chief, Iron Munro and Livewire.

And of course, he gives one to Conner and Linda too! This is probably the formation of the Superman Squad we saw first here in Grounded.

How great to see Igle drawing Linda again. My guess is Linda is another casualty of the DCnU.

And we even learn that Jennings must somehow retain some of her super-powers afterwards. She is the Superwoman in the Squad.

And that is a very nice tiny piece to this story too. Superman is an inspiration even to some of his enemies. She is a hero because of him. Maybe that crystal filled her with his hope just as it had his despair.

I would have loved to see more of the Superman Squad and I bet Roberson would love to write more.

And the final images of Grounded, of this Superman's story, is the Squad talking about how nothing could ever keep Superman apart from Lois and that together they fight for truth, justice and the American way.

The book ends with a wink to the audience, another great piece of Superman mythos.

So what is left for me to say?

Well, I still have to go way back and question just why DC would green light Grounded to begin with. Those first issues were flawed and made me wonder if JMS even likes the character. He certainly made Superman something of a creep in those early chapters.

That said, I really have to commend Chris Roberson for making the back half of this story a much better read. The approach of having Superman work his way back to his core by interacting with his friends and family, remembering what formed him, brought us to this satisfying conclusion. Grounded was a sow's ear before he came on. I'd love to hear how much he veered from Straczynski's initial notes to bring the story here.

And, as I said, this was a issue was a nice send off for this incarnation of Superman. It is a shame that we won't see what would have happened next for this reinvigorated version of the character.

Overall grade: B+

Review: Superman #713

Superman #713 came out this week, the penultimate chapter of 'Grounded'. And I can say without equivocation that I am eager for this storyline to end.

In fact, about the best thing I can say about this issue is that I was disappointed. You see, I have been pretty impressed with Chris Roberson's work on this book since taking over for J. Michael Straczynski. JMS' opening chapters were a complete disaster with Superman starting this walk for all the wrong reasons and then doing his best to alienate himself when the whole purpose was to get back in touch with the common man. Since then Roberson has been having Superman slowly work back to his core, seeing how he is viewed by future heroes, reconnecting with good friends and best friends. This issue's solicit made it seem like it was time for Superman to reconnect with his family ... a perfect lead-in to a reconnection with Lois in the last book.

Instead, Roberson has Superman take a giant step backwards in this issue. Where the last couple of issues of Grounded have ended with a smiling Superman, here we have the sulking confused Superman again. Could this be the emotional fallout of whatever was supposed to happen in the unseen 'Sharif' issue which was supposed to proceed this? Who knows? But after how reconnected Superman has been recently, this felt way way off.

The art in the issue is a conglomeration of Diogenes Neves, Eddy Barrows, and Jamal Igle. Outside of the differing styles making the issue seem shaky, the art is fine here. Neves seems to be channeling Leinil Yu a bit which is fine. But Supergirl's costume is again a variant.

The issues starts with a reunion of the Superman Family, Superboy and Supergirl catching up with Superman in Portland Oregon.

This page is done by Eddy Barrows. One thing I like about Barrows' interpretation of the Supergirl outfit is that he draws her shirt much bigger with a huge S-shield. He drew it like that in Blackest Night:Superman and it looks great like that. I think the S-shield needs to be massive, dominating the shirt. But again, the skirt is mistakenly colored red. While I prefer the red skirt, especially pleasing with the longer shirt look, it is basically an error.

And while I am a proponent of the skort look, the bike shorts under the skirt, these extra long blue leggings just don't look right. It looks like something Blossom or Debbie Gibson would wear in the 80s.

And then, the relapse of Superman into his emotional funk. He asks himself the question asked by Elliot S! Maggin 4 decades ago 'Must there be a Superman?' and Superman says the answer is no.

After his meeting with the Superman Squad, his lunch with Barry, his reminiscing with Bruce, his adventure with Jimmy ... this should be behind him.

But let's say he has had a relapse. He decides that the best way for him to continue to be a hero is to do it in secret. I guess he wants to be The Blur. And he wants Supergirl and Superboy to do the same. Oh man ... the last thing I want from my comic book Superman is Smallville-like doldrums.

Supergirl has about the same response that I did ... a face palm.

Nice contrast in the response of Conner and Kara though. Conner is angry at the stupidity of it. Kara, probably empathizing with Kal, just mutters about his depression.

And just like that, Clark has made his decision. He strips down and leaves his uniform on a tree stump.

Now, here is where Conner and Kara should walk with him, talking to him, telling why he is misguided, helping him. This is where family don't simply walk away but try to help each other.

But instead, Roberson has the scene end there. The two young heroes must simply fly off. And that felt really really really wrong. Especially from Supergirl. Over the last several years Kal has been there for a distraught Kara several times. I doubt Supergirl would just let him walk off.

Instead, Roberson has Clark meet a complete stranger in a coffee shop. Whoever this man is (we never find out his name), he is a big Superman fan. He recognizes Clark, he has read 'Under a Yellow Sun', and he gets a sneak peek at Clark's op-ed piece named 'Must there be a Superman'. Floored by the inanity of the piece, especially from one of Superman's friends, this guy decides to lead Clark around the blocks of Seattle to talk to passersby about Superman and what he represents.

A stranger ...

Couldn't Linda Lang and Conner Kent have led him around the neighborhoods to hear these testimonials? Couldn't they then add in what Superman means to them as a great capstone to these chance encounters? Wouldn't that have more clout?

Now the street side encounters are nice if a bit cliched. Maybe even saccharin. But somehow that seemed to fit right in with Grouded.

Children talk about not being afraid of Superman. Adults say how they know he is truthful even when it is difficult. Another person talks about how they know Superman is just, never acting as judge or jury. The stranger talks about how Superman stops danger, doesn't invite it.

It is a way to build up the 'Truth' and 'Justice' aspects of Superman.

And then we have the small moment of Superman saving a family's cat from a roof. Superman helps people enjoy life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Yes, it is a well-worn image. But one thing I like about Superman is that if he has the time to do the small things, he does. What do people want, Superman to fly by the cat dying on a roof, it's owner crying on the ground?

And look at the smile on his face here. According to the story, this happened recently. So where did the 'do good in secret' attitude slink into his mind. It must be after this right?

And then, the stranger sums everything up. Superman needs to be out in the open to inspire everyone else to be good, for people to aspire to be like him.

Now that is perfect.

But why from this guy? Wouldn't that sound better from two young people wearing the S-shield, living lives devoted to doing good, striving to be like him.

I just can't get over Supergirl and Superboy taking off.

And then the stranger says the person Clark needs to talk to about Superman, the person that probably understands him the most is Lois.

As if on cue, a news report comes out that the possessed teacher from Grounded has Lois as a captive and demanding that Superman come to her. Clark disappears, hopefully retrieving his uniform and flying to Seattle to save Lois.

So next month we get the face-off between this 'jewel Kryptonite' possessed teacher. Will we get a good explanation of who she is and why she is doing what she is doing? I hope so. Will Lois and Superman/Clark re-unite? Obviously. Will there be some showing of nation-wide love of Superman? Will we see him approach Kara and Conner sheepishly? I hope so. That is a lot of story for 20 pages and I haven't even mentioned the fight.

The bottom line is this was a misstep in Roberson's otherwise fine reworking of the mess that Straczynski started in Grounded. The individual encounters on the street were fine. But what we needed was Superman to reconnect with his family, the second to last step in his rehabilitation leading up to his reconciliation with Lois. Instead we get a glum Superman being helped by an unnamed stranger after his family flies off. That doesn't seem right.

The Superman books have been floundering a bit these last couple of years. Maybe a shot in the arm, even via something drastic like the DCnU, is needed.

Overall grade: C

August 2011 Solicits

The August solicits for DC Comics are up on their website. Here is the link to the main August page: http://www.dccomics.com/dccomics/comics/?dat=20110807&sort=date
This month is the beginning of Flashpoint and that meant the cancellation of a handful of titles. August is the end of Flashpoint, the end of another series that 'changes everything' and so I wonder what havoc will be wrought on DC's ongoing titles. Will September look very different? Because it sure looks like DC might be clearing the decks this month and I am only really looking at the Super titles.

Here are the solicits for August.

Supergirl #67

Written by KELLY SUE DECONNICK; Art by CHRISCROSS and MARC DEERING; Cover by RB SILVA and ROB LEAN

Between abductions, no chicken fingers in the cafeteria, and the killer robots, Supergirl has about had her fill of college. But before she can leave, first she has to save the kids of the Silk Pajama Society, stop the bad guy from unleashing his devastating plan upon the world, and attend one last orientation session!

On Sale August 17, 2011

This is the last issue of Kelly Sue Deconnick's short stint as writer. And the descriptions of the books make it sound like it will be a fun story to read. I definitely like the RB Silva cover which has a sort of reverse Sleeping Beauty feel to it.

This is the end of this arc.

But most importantly ... it does not say FINAL ISSUE, which was my big worry. So who is coming on board as the creative team next? I hope it is someone prepared to be here for the long haul, someone with a feel for the character.

Supergirl:Bizarrogirl Trade Paperback

Written by STERLING GATES; Art by JAMAL IGLE, MATT CAMP and JON SIBAL; Cover by AMY REEDE and RICHARD FRIEND

Enter Bizarro Supergirl! But how did she get to Earth and what does she want? The real Supergirl better find out fast, or else there won't be much left of Metropolis to save! And to make things worse, an even bigger threat looms on the horizon with an eye for the Girl of Steel. Collected from SUPERGIRL #53-59 and ANNUAL #2.

On Sale August 24, 2011

This is a nice big trade collecting the end of Sterling Gates' great run on Supergirl. The trade will really run the emotional gamut from the depression of the early BizarroGirl issues to the optimism at the end of the Doll Maker run with a great palate cleanser of the Legion story in the Annual sandwiched in the middle. It really doesn't get better than this as Gates shook the New Krypton shackles off and gave us great Supergirl stories. Add to that the wonderful art from Jamal Igle, Bernard Chang, and Matt Camp and this is simply a winner.
I am hoping hoping ... begging really ... for an introduction or foreword by Gates and Igle. But I don't think I am going to get it.

Justice League of America #60

Written by JAMES ROBINSON; Art by DANIEL SAMPERE; Cover by IVAN REIS and JOE PRADO; 1:10 Variant cover by DAVID MACK

In the aftermath of "Eclipso Rising," the team faces an uncertain future. Be here for a tale of love, friendship and heroism when this incarnation of the JLA must decide whether they have anything left to offer the DC Universe. And the mystery of Jesse Quick's wavering speed powers is solved in a revelation that will shock everyone.

On Sale August 17, 2011

Sounds like the end of this League, doesn't it? Too bad. I was really happy to read about this group: Dick, Donna, Jessie, Jenn, and Kara. It felt like a fresh take on the JLA concept. And yes ... I know I am biased as a Supergirl fan. But my guess is we aren't going to see this lineup any more.
This is the end of this arc. Get ready to read that phrase a lot.

Action Comics #904

Written by PAUL CORNELL; Art and cover by KENNETH ROCAFORT; 1:10 Variant cover by JERRY ORDWAY

Earth has fallen. The multiple Doomsdays have defeated Supergirl, Superboy, Steel, and the Eradicator. Now it all comes down to a weakened Superman versus the monster known as Doomslayer in this, the epic finale of "Reign of the Doomsdays"!

On Sale August 24, 2011

The addition of someone called Doomslayer is enough to get my attention. And with no mention of the Cyborg Superman, I wonder if it is a merger of Henshaw and Doomsday. Too bad the Superman Family sounds like they are down for the count. But it usually comes down to Superman vs. Doomsday one on one.
I really can't wait to see Rocafort's interiors on these stories.

This is the end of this arc.

Superman #714

Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI and CHRIS ROBERSON; Art by ALLAN GOLDMAN and EBER FERREIRA; Cover by JOHN CASSADAY; 1:10 Variant cover by EDDY BARROWS

Superman hits Seattle for his last stop on his "Grounded" walk across the country, and it is in that city where everything will come to a head! The mysterious woman who has been following Superman all year makes a desperate final move, one that may cost the Man of Steel that which he holds most dear!
On Sale August 3, 2011

Is this 'last stop' mean this is the last chapter of 'Grounded'? There is no mention of Lois so I wonder if there will be an epilogue after this issue where Superman patches up his relationships with everyone. But I could be wrong. This could be the end of this arc ... hurray?

I hope Roberson gets the chance to write some non-Grounded Superman.

Superboy #10

Written by JEFF LEMIRE; Art by PIER GALLO, PETE WOODS and CAFU; Covers by KARL KERSCHL

In SUPERBOY #10, learn how the threat currently facing Superboy and Smallville stretches all the way back to the time of ancient Atlantis! Guest-starring Arion and the Viking Prince, with art by Pete Woods and CAFU!

On Sale August 3, 2011

It's a double shot of Superboy this month. Frankly, I was just thrilled to see that my earlier guess that Arion was part of the plot here turned out to be right. And the Viking Prince! Love those Joe Kubert stories (or what I have seen of them in Brave and Bold reprints).

But add to that the very New Krypton art team of Gallo, Woods, and Cafu and I am very happy.

Superboy #11

Written by JEFF LEMIRE; Art by PIER GALLO, PETE WOODS and CAFU; Covers by KARL KERSCHL

In SUPERBOY #11, Jeff Lemire and Pier Gallo bring the saga of "The Hollow Men" to its explosive conclusion! Superboy, Lori, Simon and Psionic Lad must fight for the very soul of Smallville hundreds of miles beneath the town's surface!

On Sale August 17, 2011

And then the second part of the double shot. First off, nice homage cover by Karl Kerschl of Rafale Alberquerque's cover for Superboy #1. Only 10 issues later and an homage cover. Nice!

But it also sounds like this issue marks the end of Jeff Lemire's first big plot line. Hmmm, another ending of another arc.

DC Retroactive Superman: The 80s

Written by MARV WOLFMAN; Art by SERGIO CARIELLO; Cover by DAN JURGENS and LIVEAY

Fan-favorite writer Marv Wolfman revisits the legendary character he helped define in the 1980s in this epic tale of The Man of Steel. A true "lost tale," this issue connects to CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS in an exciting and unique way! Rounding out this issue is a tale from the 1980s, also written by Wolfman.

On Sale August 10, 2011

A Crisis related story? Think Supergirl makes an appearance? Gets mentioned? Anyways, I would love a Monitor-based story. I hope we see Monitor testing Superman and maybe get the reason behind Monitor's pick of Kal-L (not Kal-El) for his first team.

DC Retroactive Superman: The 90s

Written by LOUISE SIMONSON; Art and cover by JON BOGDANOVE

The epic Retroactive event continues as the fan-favorite team of Louise Simonson and Jon Bogdanove return for a "lost" adventure of The Man of Steel. As Lex Luthor is slowly losing his mind, he hatches a scheme that could increase his wealth and kill Superman – but will he destroy Metropolis in the process? Plus, don't miss a classic tale by the same team from the 1990s!

On Sale August 24, 2011

A re-teaming of the 'Steel' team from the 90s! I always thought Jon Bogdanove's art was warped and exaggerated but always compelling. And I think we are dealing with the red-haired and bearded Luthor, the 'son' of Lex. My guess is a wave of nostalgia is going to wash over me here.

Batgirl #24

Written by BRYAN Q. MILLER; Art by PERE PEREZ; Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN

Stephanie Brown has done her best to put her past behind her, but as the Repears' mysterious client stands revealed, Batgirl's going to learn the hard way that those who fail history are doomed to repeat it. This issue has it all: Secrets unearthed! Alliances broken! Splash pages!

On Sale August 10, 2011

I am a sucker for 'has it all' issues. I can remember a bunch of 70s Marvel comics I had as a kid which trumpeted that. Plus, this cover looks like a Batgirl 80pg Giant doesn't it? I collect Batgirl already, but the inclusion of Supergirl would have made this a must buy.

By the way, this sounds like it might be the end of this arc for Batgirl, althought it isn't clearly stated as such.

Superman Beyond #0

Written by TOM DEFALCO; Art by RON FRENZ and SAL BUSCEMA; Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN; 1:10 Variant cover by RON FRENZ and SAL BUSCEMA

From the hit comic series BATMAN BEYOND comes the adventures of The Man of Tomorrow in the DC Universe of the future. As Superman feels his super-powers beginning to decline, The Last Son of Krypton is called back into action to stop a villain more powerful than any he's faced before. This looks like a job for Superman Beyond!

On Sale August 24, 2011

I only know about Superman Beyond from the show Batman Beyond. He was a Starro controlled dupe on that show, although redeemed at the end. I am not reading the Batman Beyond book, but I like the show enough to give this Elseworld's sort of Superman story a try.

Flashpoint: Lois Lane and the Resistance #3

Written by DAN ABNETT and ANDY LANNING; Art by EDDIE NUNEZ; Cover by EDDIE NUNEZ and SANDRA HOPE

FLASH FACT: The Resistance has found Britain's last great hope, the enigmatic and immensely powerful Brittania. It's time to take back England!

On Sale August 24, 2011

I am hoping Flashpoint is good. I am hoping this mini is good. But there isn't much Lois in this description.  Is that Lois in the Union Jack armor?

Flashpoint: Project Superman #3

Plot by SCOTT SNYDER; Script by LOWELL FRANCIS; Art and cover by GENE HA

FLASH FACT: Subject Zero. Subject One. There can only be one.

On Sale August 24, 2011

Again, I am hoping thatFlashpoint will be good. And I am hoping this mini will be good. Gene Ha's art looks great. But I don't know the plot here. Moreover, is there a Supergirl in the Flashpoint universe?

So the end of Supergirl's arc, the end of Grounded (maybe), the end of Reign of the Doomsdays, the end of the Hollow Men story. Lots coming to a head in the Superman Family here. But with so many stories coming to an end this month just as Flashpoint comes to an end and with the DCU rebooting yet again(!),  I wonder what my post for September's solicits will look like.