“Jon–our son– has been kidnapped. But we’re almost certain we know.who took him. Clark. Kent.”
Chapter 2 of the Superman Reborn arc continues the storyline that began in Peter J Tomasi and Patrick Gleason’s Superman title (Superman #18), with Dan Jurgens carrying over the story and providing the writing duties for this installment. Superman and Lois’s son has disappeared in blue flame, disappearing from existence. Who else could possibly be responsible for Jon’s disappearance other than the Doppelganger posing as Clark Kent? Finally, we will get the answers that everyone has been on edge for since the appearance of the doppelganger harkening back from last years DC Rebirth event.
With that said…… I can see why DC comics was very, very (and thankfully) secretive about the plot twist and reveals that are within this story arc and issue and it is executed very, very well. What I can say is there is a lot of fourth wall breaking in regards to the identity behind the doppelganger appearance. Dan Jurgens is in top form in terms.of preserving the mystery that he has been weaving since the beginning of his action comics run, and makes great effort to tie it seamlessly with Peter J Tomasi and Patrick Gleason’s Superman title with ease. What’s fantastic about this issue is the structure and the unfolding mystery that is showcased throughout the issue. By the time you get to the shocking reveal, it literally catches you off guard in regards to the identity of this doppelganger. Everyone on the internet has made predictions ranging from Superboy Prime to Eradicator to other characters from the pre 52 universe and so on. But
To see Jurgens pull the rug underneath our feet in such an effective way is satisfying and makes the most logical sense when reflecting on all of the prior events that have occurred within this title.
Mahnke’s art combined with Mendoza’s inks, accompanied with Quintana’s colors is a fantastic blend that really makes this issue pop with aesthetic power in a way that only they could accomplish. The way Mahnke illustrated the mysterious identity of this doppelganger and then illustrating his sister smile is just amazing. Rob Leigh does a good job with the lettering as he always has. Paul Dini also writes a backup feature that bridges the gap as to Jon’s whereabouts and it works well with what Jurgens and the Superman team have been developing over the past year.
All in all, this is a phenomenal issue and shows why Superman in both his main title and in Action Comics has been the best Superman material in years and one of the best modern comic books to read today. I can’t wait to see how this story continues in Superman #19, and most assuredly I’m looking forward to how this arc wraps up. Truly a great return of a character that I don’t believe that anyone, ANYONE saw coming. Go read this book before other outlets spoil the mystery!
Newsdesk