Comic Review: Action Comics #993 (DC Comics)

Superman using the Flash’s cosmic treadmill goes back in time, moments before Krypton’s destruction to search for the truth about Mr. Oz’s origin and whether his claims are true.

Sensing a disturbance through time, there is only one man for the job that could save Superman and time itself… he’s the greatest hero you’ve never heard of…it’s Booster Gold and skeets! Meanwhile Lois’s father, General Lane is held hostage after a sabotaged government mission gone wrong. What ramifications will unfold due to Superman’s presence within Krypton? What will Superman discover that will affect him forever? Can he make it in time to save General Lane? And will Booster Gold ever get his due?

Dan Jurgens returns to his illustration duties within this arc in addition to also writing the issue as well. The story is engaging and makes for a great launch pad for any new reader interested in Booster Gold. But the overall premise of the story is tight and straight to the point. Superman wants to see the truth for himself about Mr. Oz and his existence. How Jor-El became Mr. Oz during the end of Krypton. It’s an interesting story since Superman is making a risky move going back in time just to see whether or not the information he discovered (post-Oz Effect) holds true to what was told to him. But to see Superman risk time is an interesting thing because it’s such a selfish thing for Superman to do and understandably so. Because Superman is struggling with the truth that Mr. Oz is his father. But it’s enough to hear it and to see Jurgens play with that idea of Superman risking his life is not something often seen btw Superman in such a selfish manner. But man, seeing Booster Gold back into the DC fold is great relief. Dan Jurgens is at home writing Booster Gold and his sidekick Skeets bickering and interacting with everything around them. Seeing Booster Gold going back in time to find Superman is one thing, but to see him go toe to toe with the Flash and proceeding with their mission was and is greatly enjoyable.

The artwork by Dan Jurgens is a testament to his craftsmanship as an illustrator and storyteller. He’s become much more refined and continues to age better as an illustrator, and layout artist goes to show he has not lost his touch. Padro and Smith layout nice finishes with the ink and Hi-Fi’s Colors make the art blossom.

I highly recommend picking this issue up since its closest to the narrative that is bleeding into and from the Doomsday Clock maxi-series. It’s worth noting that also having Booster Gold in the hands of Jurgens, is more of a reason to check this issue out.