30th Anniversary:Crisis On Infinite Earths #7 - Fallout In Future Incarnations

We are nearing the end of July 2015 and my 30th anniversary review of Crisis on Infinite Earths #7.

One of the things I have discussed over this month has been how I am conflicted about this issue.

On the one hand, DC felt that Supergirl was something of a superfluous character, someone which could be easily erased from continuity without too many people being upset. It was a slap in the face to Supergirl fans who loved her and grew with her.

On the other hand, it is a huge moment in comics. It is a great heroic death for the character, saving the universe and inspiring others. The cover of this issue is the image for the Crisis, the series which forever rewrote DC continuity. There is no doubt that this story gave Supergirl something of a legacy which could be built on, even in other incarnations!

In the end, especially given the return of Supergirl a couple of times, I have definitely fallen into the latter disposition. This was a huge moment for comics. And it is Supergirl's moment. This happened 30 years ago and people still talk about it.

Unfortunately, one of the problems with the Crisis is that once the multiverse was reborn as a true universe, once Supergirl got erased from history, then no one remembered her sacrifice. No one remembered she even existed. It was this fallout that led to Alan Brennert's famous Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot story. She saved worlds, the universe, but no one knows.

One of the things that I found interesting was seeing how Supergirl writers in the post-Crisis landscape commented on the Crisis and her sacrifice. This was a major comic moment that resonated even into the new DC universes and different Supergirls.

Peter David took over Supergirl in 1996 and created a very weird, almost quasi-Vertigo, super-title. In it, the Matrix Supergirl being merges with a tormented, troubled, young woman named Linda Danvers. This sacrifice by Matrix, saving someone beyond redemption, leads her to become an Earth Angel, walking a sort of mystic, religious line in her adventures.

David really infused this series with a ton of Supergirl Easter Eggs, nods to Supergirl's history in ways that old time fans could appreciate and new time fans might not notice. From the Danvers to Comet to Leesburg to Satan Girl ... there is a lot of Supergirl mythos here.

But in Supergirl #49, we get a bombshell. Written by David and drawn by Leonard Kirk, this issue opens with a despondent Supergirl, beaten down by the events of her life, questioning herself and a bout of hubris which led to a death, imprisoned by her enemy The Carnivore.

Supergirl is really beating herself up here. She basically has imprisoned herself and is wallowing in self-loathing when a vision appears before her to help her recognize herself as a being of goodness.

This being, glowing gold, tells her that she holds herself to a standard that no one can maintain. As Linda nothing was worth anything. As Supergirl, anything is worth everything. No one can be that good.

I love that Supergirl's response is that Clark can. It is a throwback to the old stories where Supergirl was living in the shadow of Superman, constantly trying to be like him, emulate him, be perfect like him.

The S-shield has power, is a symbol of immutable and perfect goodness. One can't look too long at the sun. I love how this being tells Supergirl that even when Linda won, she wondered if she could have done more.

Again, think to those early Action stories where Supergirl is constantly doubting herself, constantly worrying what Superman will think. It is this element of an inferiority complex, that concern that she isn't a real hero, which has been an undercurrent in the character.

This being was unseen in the title before this. Although twice before Supergirl basically prayed for some intervention and it happened. It was this being who did those.

And then we learn about this 'figment of imagination', this 'second thought', this 'guardian angel'.

Her name is Kara!

When I first read this I got chills. When I read it just now to write this post, I got chills.

Even the line of 'guardian angel' is an homage to Action Comics #252 were Supergirl calls herself Midvale's guardian angel.

But an imaginary friend? An invisible playmate? It is a way to discuss the first Supergirl, rewritten forgotten, only part of an imaginary continuity that doesn't exist anymore.

Brilliant use of Kara by David, a way to both honor the first Supergirl and strengthen the current one.

Of course David really delved into the impact of the Crisis in Many Happy Returns but I loved this nuanced look at a Supergirl that no longer existed.

David goes one step further in Supergirl #50, the final chapter of a story which has been working it's way through this title since the first issue. I have said it before ... I will say it again ... I believe the first 50 issues of this title are one of the strongest and best long form stories in comics.

In this book, the Carnivore, the first vampire, has been given the power of God and has rewritten the universe into a dark, evil version of itself. Even heroes like Superman become demonic.

Supergirl, in one of the best and most understated victories, defeats the Carnivore. Without his malevolent desires, the universe reverts to normal.

She saves the universe!

That victory strips the angelic portion of Supergirl from Linda. She has limited powers.

But then David injects some of Crisis into this story. We just saw her save the universe like in Crisis #7.

Now we learn that the world 'knows' that Supergirl 'died in mighty combat against a foe of unimaginable power.' You could use that sentence to describe Crisis #7 without batting an eye.

David hammers home the point just to make sure that it isn't lost. It is an 'inherited, implanted memory', a 'retroactive bit of continuity'.

This is a nod to the crisis without a doubt, giving this Supergirl the recognition for saving the universe that the original didn't get to savor.

Again, brilliant use of the Supergirl mythos put into this version of the character.

But Peter David isn't the only writer of Supergirl who looked back and played on her death in Crisis.

Sterling Gates also looked back. Gates certainly appreciated Supergirl history. We see Gates insert a lot of older Supergirl history into the incarnation he was writing. From her relationship with Brainiac 5 to peek-a-boo shots of The Gang to Satan Girl, Gates honored what came before while making it new and fresh.

Supergirl Annual #2, with art by Matt Camp and Marco Rudy, is a treasure trove of Supergirl and Legion Easter Eggs, definitely worth reading. But there is one moment that really sticks out.

Here Supergirl has been thrown into the 30th century and is working with the Legion.

She heads to the Superman Museum and rushes to the Supergirl wing to learn of her own history.

She learns how she dies.

That second panel, the look of sadness on her face, her hands together in front of her mouth, you can just tell that this wasn't a peaceful death, of natural causes while lying in bed. This is something weighty, maybe horrifying.

The death of Supergirl was basically revisited even without giving us the details. It shows how that legacy of her dying is still part of the character, even two incarnations past the original's death.

We are nearing the end of this month of review of Crisis on Infinite Earths #7. I hope I have given this paramount issue the coverage it has deserved.

Review: Legion Lost #6

One of the many new 52 titles getting a creative team change is Legion Lost, with writer Fabien Nicieza moving on and Tom DeFalco coming on board.  It is a change I am a bit leery of. You see, this was a book I almost abandoned after the first issue. I didn't like the 'trapped in time' story and I didn't like the 'stop the virus' plot either. But Nicieza really did a great job with the characters here, giving each Legionnaire a turn at being narrator, allowing us to see their inner thoughts, and learn about them more. And that characterization really worked for me, surpassing the virus plot and making this the Legion book I was anticipating most each month. Of course, Pete Woods awesome art didn't hurt.

Legion Lost #6 came out last week and was a transition issue with both Nicieza and DeFalco splitting writing duties. And Supergirl pinch hitter extraordinaire Matt Camp helped out with Woods on art. As the original team is still here, it is hard to know if any major change in the books feel is going to happen. This issue was narrated by Tyroc and continued the strong character feel of the book. And the issue ends with what might considered a finale for the opening arc ... maybe.

We know this book isn't selling like gangbusters, so the question is does DC decide to shake up what is solid storytelling to try to attract readers. Or will they let word of mouth bring people here. (Of course, the upcoming crossover with Titans and Superboy might bring people here too).

Last issue ended with a cliffhanger, with the Martian Manhunter stopping Timber Wolf and Chameleon Girl from rejoining the rest of the team. In something of a twist, he doesn't take them back to Stormwatch HQ and insteads lets them get captured by the military squad following. And the J'Onn tags along, all stealthy (although allowing TW to still see him).

Of course, Timber Wolf knows the Manhunter, something which confuses J'Onn.

I don't know if I understand why J'Onn allowed Wolf to get captured by this group unless he was also scouting them out too.

Dawnstar is able to track them to the compound they are being held in Tyroc decides assault is the best option. And Gates is the perfect advance trooper, blipping in and out stealing the soldiers' weapons. It is hear I learn that Gates hates all authority and would relish this task.

I did not Legion during the time Gates was around. So I don't know if this is new for him or always there. Nice use of multiple panels spanning one continuous image, giving the reader the feeling that Gates is moving around in time and space.

And Tyroc shares his own feelings of inadequacy as team leader here. He talks about feeling nervous telling them what to do. But really, who else could be the leader of this team. Wolf and Wildfire are too hot-headed. Gates hates authority. Dawnstar is an introvert. Tellus is ... meek. It has to be Tyroc or Yera.

So he has to pull it together and take control.

Man, that Matt Camp can draw. What a great panel of two of my favorite Legionnaires.

Meanwhile, Timber Wolf begins being interrogated by the woman leader of this military operation. We have seen her since issue one. I am telling you, that scar on her face has to be courtesy of some alien or maybe Alastor himself.

I do like the code words they have given the Legionnaires. Lenny Kravitz for Tyroc ... perfect. Big yellow frog for Tellus? Even more perfect.

But Wolf has little to say other than he can smell alien corpses in this place. This is as much a lab and morgue as it is a prison.

Once inside, Dawnstar and Gates are able to pinpoint just where their friends are. Wildfire wants to split up. Tyroc doesn't want to. But Ty concedes. He isn't quite ready to overrule Wildfire, especially when it comes to a battle.

But Tyroc knows there is risk too.

He and Wildfire go to rescue Yera and run into J'onn. J'onn isn't sure what is going on.

Of course Wildfire reacts like Wildfire. He blasts the Martian and engages in battle. But like Wolf, Tyroc immediately recognizes J'onn and commands Wildfire to stand down. And when Drake won't listen, Tyroc puts some teeth behind his order. It was definitely nice to see Tyroc finally act like a leader.

When cooler heads prevail, J'onn and the Legionnaires talk about their plight. J'onn finds a Durlan corpse which will supply Yera the needed biomass to purge her body of the Hypertaxis virus. And J'onn is able to get the temporal signature of the Legion, something he was looking for since intercepting Brin.

Timber Wolf and the others mop the floor with the soldiers and it looks like everyone is going to get out of this thing in one piece. But then J'onn drops a bomb on them. Time travel is one way.

I think the Legion all along have known this in their hearts. But having it said by someone else makes it sink in. This use of repeated panels to convey the passing of time is a well traveled technique in the decompressed writing style. For me, it is a Bendis technique. Sometimes he would have the same panel cover the whole page to really give the feeling of time passing.

I don't mind it as a story-telling method if used sparingly. The more it is used, the less story we get. Here it works nice, showing the shock on the Legion, paralyzed by the news.

As for Tellus, who was left guarding Alastor, he fails in his one job. He 'falls asleep' and when he awakens Alastor is gone and completely cloaked. You would think that J'onn would help stop Alastor when he learned of this threat. Who knows, maybe he did, taking Alastor away.

So does this mark the end of the Hypertaxis arc? Sort of. But my guess is ... and I hope ... that the Legion still tries to contain the plague. Or will the Legion's hope of getting home become the dominating thread?

Regardless, next issue is set in New York, as far away from the plague epicenter as you can get.

So overall, I thought this was a good issue, showcasing Tyroc's fears as well as bringing the team finally back together. And, the Woods/Camp art was top notch.

But the J'onn guest star seemed a bit superfluous and maybe a little forced. And I hope the Alastor/plague story isn't swept under the rug. I don't like it ... but I want resolution.

Overall grade: B

December 2011 Solicits

The December DC solicits have been released. Here is the link for all books:
http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dc-comics-december-2011-solicitations-110919.html

Not too many surprises this month as the DCnU settles in. It is interesting to read all these solicits when some stories haven't even started. Here are the super-titles.

SUPERGIRL #4

Written by MICHAEL GREEN and MIKE JOHNSON

Art and cover by MAHMUD ASRAR

Trapped and powerless aboard a space station, Supergirl is at the mercy of an ingenious new foe who wants to learn everything there is to know about her. But Supergirl is more than just her powers, and she’ll soon show this foe – and all of Earth – what’s she truly capable of! Plus, more on the Girl of Steel’s mysterious origin!

The cover makes me think that sunstone technology has retained a place in the new DCU. The 'more than just her powers' phrase is intriguing. Hopefully they'll keep the i'ntelligent member of the Science guild' feel to the character.

I do wonder about the 'mysterious' origin. Does that mean that Argo City surviving the destruction of Krypton is back out of continuity? I still think, based only on the preview pages, that Zor-El has plugged her into a VR 'educational' program. That's why she thinks that stuff is a dream. What programs has he been feeding her though?

ACTION COMICS #4

Written by GRANT MORRISON and JOSHUA HALE FIALKOV

Art by RAGS MORALES, GENE HA, RICK BRYANT and MATT CAMP

Cover by RAGS MORALES

Variant cover by GREG CAPULLO

1:200 BandW Variant cover by RAGS MORALES

Is your mind prepared for an encounter with the deadly Terminauts? What awful master do they serve? What horrible fate awaits Superman and the city of Metropolis? The true scope of Grant Morrison and Rags Morales’ ACTION COMICS run begins to come into view, so get those sunglasses ready, ‘cause it is gonna be blinding!

And in a backup story from writer Joshua Hale Fialkov and artist Matt Camp that spins out of ACTION COMICS #2, John Henry Irons takes his first steps toward becoming the hero known as Steel!

I have to say that this solicit 'sounds' more like a Morrison run. The Terminauts serving an awful master. Sounds about right. My guess is it is the 'teetotaler' who was with Glenmorgan in the opening scene of Action #1. He seemed too happy to slip out of that office, and had swiped Glenmorgan's tie to boot. I am really looking forward to seeing where Morrison is going with this.

Glad to see old Supergirl friend Matt Camp back on a Super-title. And very happy to see that Steel is going to be around in the DCnU.

SUPERMAN #4

Written by GEORGE PEREZ

Art by JESUS MERINO

Breakdowns and cover by GEORGE PEREZ

Discover the origin of the new foes who have been making The Man of Steel’s life so painful and chaotic lately. What are their ties to the current ACTION COMICS epic? Plus, Lois Lane uncovers a tragic secret from Superman’s past!

** Not final cover. Previous interior art shown.

Pretty nondescript cover/not cover and solicit here. Don't know what to make of this.

SUPERBOY #4

Written by SCOTT LOBDELL

Art by R.B. SILVA and ROB LEAN

Cover by SHANE DAVIS and JONATHAN GLAPION

Superboy has learned the truth about what he really is...and he’s not taking it well. Alone in New York and surrounded by holiday cheer, it’s a struggle to keep his emotions and his powers in check...and he’s on a crash course with a dangerous pair of murderous young metahumans who are more like him than he might want to admit!

** Not final cover

I still get the vibe that DC is trying to streamline this version of Superboy with the angry, confused pod-boy from the Young Justice cartoon. But do we need to see him standing in front of a burning Christmas tree? Are we that desperate to make him appear bad-ass that he'll ruin Christmas?? What's next, attacking Santa?

The first issue was good so I am hoping that will be the level of quality here.

HAWK AND DOVE #4

Written by STERLING GATES

Art and cover by ROB LIEFELD

Following last issue’s ultra-brawl with Condor and Swan through the halls of the White House, Hawk and Dove have more questions than answers! Luckily for them, they’ve taken a prisoner! But even as they begin to question him, sinister forces align with a new target in mind: Dove’s boyfriend, Deadman! Can Dove protect the man she loves, or will her ghostly lover fall into darkness?

Fiigured I'd plug Hawk and Dove here. I like the characters a lot, thought the first issue was fun, and think Gates probably has a big mythos of the avatars he is building here. I keep wondering what Condor and Swan are avatars of.

Nice cover here, even if it doesn't hint that much about what is inside the issue.

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.

Review: Action Comics #900 Part 1

Action Comics #900 came out this week, a truly historic issue. And like many I was excited to read the main story by Paul Cornell, Pete Woods, and Jesus Merino as they wrapped up the Black Ring storyline.

But like many, it was the included short story by David Goyer that got my attention the most. In fact, it struck such a chord that I felt I needed to review it before the main story. I'll also review the other short bonus stories here as well.

'The Incident' was written by David Goyer with art by Miguel Sepulveda.

The story opens with Superman meeting the President's National Security Advisor in the middle of a snowy wood to talk about an incident Superman was involved in, one that has the US government worried.

Deep in the woods, military snipers have high powered rifles with Kryptonite bullets trained on Superman, fearing that he may have gone rogue.

So I have said it before and I will say it again. Recently there has been far too many stories with Superman fighting the US military. One of the main villains of the whole New Krypton storyline was the US military. One of the main villains in Superman:Secret Origin was the US military.

I don't need Superman to be a sycophant for the military as in Dark Knight Returns. I understand the above examples were the fault of the xenophobic General Lane. But the truth is the average soldier, the average person in the armed forces is serving this country and ready to defend my freedom. They are heroes too. I don't need Superman beating them up, or being fired on by them.

I  am just sick of images like this one, the cover of Superman Secret Origin #5.

Why does the government think Superman as gone rogue? He decided to be a participant in an 'incident' in Iran where a public protest was occurring. The demonstrators were rallying against the government. The military was there to quell the demonstration ... with force if necessary.

Superman decided that he was going to show up and stand with the protesters, a sign of solidarity. He states he would not engage no matter what happened, he was there as an act of civil disobedience.

Okay, so the truth is this idea of Superman trying to change the world in matters like this (or other examples he gives like world hunger or human rights) has been explored in many many different places. It never ends well. It is rarely done right.

Superman says he stood in that square for 24 hours, that he was vilified and glorified during that time.  During that time the protest crowd grew astronomically. And nothing happened. And Superman left.

I have to be honest, I think Goyer was pretty lazy here.  He takes the easy way out. It is easy to write this story when nothing happens. But what if Superman's presence scared the military so much they began to fire into the crowd? Would Superman really stand by and do nothing? And if his presence emboldened the protesters such that they began to lob rocks or fire on the military themselves would Superman intervene on behalf of the army? And if his presence led to a riot between both sides would he act? Or what if presence didn't matter at all and things got ugly? Would he hold to his vow and not 'directly engage' allowing the loss of human life?

And what happens after he leaves? What if the government continues to round up the protesters? Or fire into the demonstraters as soon has he leaves? Would he return? And what about the throngs of people who came to the protest when Superman was there ... do they continue to protest in the open ... or slink back to their homes, scared again? What happens later?

It is too easy to have nothing happen during and after this event. It also seems unrealistic. No one in the army got a twitchy finger. No one of the one million protesters instigated anything?

And then the fallout happens. Iran felt Superman's presence was an act of war. That's why Superman was called to this meeting.

Superman, tired of being construed an 'instrument of US policy', states he will revoke his US citizenship.

What?

Why?

Given his global presence and his very recent (and unfortunate) dust-ups with the military, do people think he is really part of the government? A weapon? If he was a weapon, wouldn't he be used more?

And even if he does revoke his citizenship, do he think that will mean anything to the Iranian or any other government? Or will they think that the hero based in Metropolis is still acting in America's interests? Won't they think is simply lip service?

And isn't what he did the essence of the 'American Way' part of 'Truth, Justice, and the American Way'? Isn't the basis of the American Way the strive for freedom, to bring freedom to the oppressed? Isn't that the ideal of the American Way that we all should be inspired to reach for? Even if he disagrees with the politics of the current US regime, shouldn't he still want to be an American and to demonstrate what those ideals mean?

And doesn't America have a rich history of civil disobedience?

Isn't what Superman did in Iran very American? Being part of something like that to change things? Isn't what those protesters did very American, striving for democracy?

Shouldn't Superman be proud of his American citizenship since here we have the right to organize without tanks rolling out? That we have the right to voice our opinions and protest? That we live in a democracy? Shouldn't he be touting his American citizenship?

Isn't renouncing his citizenship almost ironic given what he did?

Superman says he has been thinking too small. He needs to think globally, not locally.

And he saw this happen as he left which made it worth it all.

Again, it is easy to write this story when the ending is trite like this. Almost saccharin. The truth is this could have turned very ugly, might still turn ugly.  What if the soldier hit the protester as he extended the rose? What if the protester spat in the soldier's face? What would Superman do then? Would he truly 'not directly engage'? Or would he put an end to it, acting just the way Luthor fears he would be ... a paternalistic safety net.

I hope ... no I pray ... someone buys Goyer Paul Dini's Peace on Earth, just about the best example of how Superman can't just insert himself into issues like this. How it is a job for everyone.

We have only recently and painfully learned in the early issues of Grounded that you better be a good writer if you are going to insert Superman into daily problems that are in our society. Can you really write a story where Superman tries to defeat hunger? Child abuse? Racism? Strife in the Middle East?Heck, even if you are a good writer, he can't really defeat those things, can he? Superman becomes ineffective ... or condescending ... or both. Who would want to read that Superman?

Superman belongs to the world, I know. But he is American. It was Ma and Pa Kent that made him the person he is. He should embrace that, be proud of that, not be irritated by it.

I pray that this story is simply swept under the rug, not regarded as canon, forgotten, and hopefully not the basis for any upcoming arcs. Because I can tell you, it simply won't work.

This whole story ... the snipers aiming at Superman, the condescending and overlord-like tone by Superman, the lazy and unrealistic protest scene, the vow by Superman to revoke his citizenship, the overly sentimental flower ending panel ... not one part worked for me. Every single part failed.

And really that is the main thing about this story. Regardless of the details, regardless of my politics, regardless of the rancor, I didn't like it. It is just another Superman story I don't want to read. And because of the publicity it is getting, now I can't escape it.

I have had to deal with years of Superman not being the star in his own books. I have had to deal with the missteps of the early Grounded issues. I have had to accustom myself to Luthor being the star of Action.  And now I have to deal with this. It is enough to make even a diehard Superman fan like me grow weary.

The rest of the supplemental stories are a mixed bag.

'Life Support' is written by Damon Lindelof and has eye-popping art by Ryan Sook. I think I would buy just about anything with Sook art.

This is a Jor-El story as he tries to get help from another Kryptonian scientist just prior to Krypton's destruction. He needs this man's help to provide for Kal-El on his journey. Now how a baby will know how to get food and water out of this device, let alone eat it, is beyond me. It is a touching story of how that unnamed scientist will help ... but only after spending time with his own family.

'Autobiography' is written by Paul Dini with art by Jimmy Olsen artist RB Silva.

This is an interesting story about a super-powered hippo like creature named Sarva who defended his planet until a supernova destroyed the planet. Rather than transport the population to a new harsh world, Sarva decided to make the world sleep peacefully and let the catastrophe happen. But he questions if that was the right decision.

My favorite short story in the book was 'Friday Night in the 21st Century' by uber-team Geoff Johns and Gary Frank. It is a simple story. Lois wants Clark to have a 'typical Friday night', a night at home with friends. And so she invites the Legion over.

I love this 2 page spread showing the heroes and Lois relaxing. I especially love the peeved Ayla looking for the pizza while a worried Timber Wolf hides. And Lois must be telling some story!

Even the beginning pages, an exploration of Lois' disorganized desk and her clear love for Clark are wonderful. It's 4 pages, 2 of which are this spread, and yet it is a complete and sweet story.

The last story is 'Only Human', told in storyboard style by Superman director Richard Donner and Derek Hoffman with art by old friend Matt Camp.

This is another fun story where Lois learns about a new super-suit designed to give the average man powers. When a demonstration with Superman turns near disastrous, Superman has to shut down the suit and its pitch man. But amusingly, Superman is also a bit jealous because the pitch man seems to have won over Lois.

Camp's art is storyboard style which works here. But I would love to have seen this story with his typical finished meticulous stuff. I bet his Lois is wonderful.

Anyways, these extra stories in Action Comics #900 were a nice addition to the Cornell conclusion. The near perfect and wonderful 'Friday Night' is offeset by the 'Incident'.

Overall grade 'The Incident': F
Overall grade 'Friday Night in the 21st Century': A+
Overall grade everything else: B+/B

Supergirl Comic Box Commentary Is Three Years Old

On April 29 2008, I posted my Jim Mooney Supergirl commission and officially started Supergirl Comic Box Commentary.

Back then I had no idea about blogging or social media at all. All I knew was that I had a love of Supergirl and I wanted a place to put down my thoughts about the character.

Here we are three years later. Three. Unbelievable!

And that is why there is a collage of Supergirl #3's above.

While the breadth of this blog has grown a bit to include the other Superman family titles, JLA, R.E.B.E.L.S., and the Legion, I always strive to keep Supergirl as the focus of this place and I think I succeed. It helps that her character seems so popular now. There always seems to be enough news going on to keep Supergirl front and center.

For me, the best part of my doing this blog has been meeting and talking to so many Supergirl and comic fans here. It is great to get a sense of just how big Supergirl's fanbase is.  I know I can be wordy, my posts lengthy, and sometimes overly analytical on things like panel composition or turns of the phrase. I also know I can be something of an easy grader in my reviews. So I want to thank everybody who comes here, reads my posts, and takes the time to comment. I truly appreciate the dialogue that happens here. I have said it before but I'll say it again ... I have become a better comic book reader because of the discussions here. That is truly the best part of this place.

And to the regulars who stop by and comment frequently (you know who you are), I can't thank you guys enough for making it feel like a little community here. Thanks for keeping me on target with reviews and points of view, showing me things I missed, and pointing out when you think I am off the mark. You all are the best.

I'd also like to thank the creators who have stopped by here for interviews or comments over the last year. A very big thank you to Sterling Gates and Jamal Igle for all they have done here. And another big thanks to James Peaty for his recent interview. And thanks to Jake Black, Dean Trippe, Bernard Chang, Matt Camp, and any other creator who has stopped by here to read and comment. As a fan, I appreciate knowing that the voices and concerns of Supergirl's fans are being heard.

With a steady rotation of monthly reviews, sales and solicitation previews, and the usual Anj commentary on previews and interviews I read, I think there is a backbone structure to this place. Add in the occasional back issue review and commission/collection addition and I am usually busy. But I am always interested in hearing if there are things I could be doing more of, less of, or differently. Is there anything I should be doing that I'm not?

Anyways, thanks again to everyone for making the last three years so much fun and for talking Supergirl and comics with me. I hope you all have enjoyed visiting here as much as I have enjoyed blogging.