Comic Review: Action Comics #998 (DC Comics)

This is it, folks!!! The questions that spilled out from the Oz Effect arc, whether Mr. Oz is or isn’t Jor-El have been asked.. And now those questions have finally been answered!!!

Superman and Booster Gold’s journey back to the past finally comes to an end as the Booster Shot arc concludes in Action Comics #998!!

Time is of the essence as Superman and Booster Gold tirelessly fend off against Zod and his family of New Krypton. With time unfolding as their presence remains, can Superman and Booster Gold make it back to their proper timeline? Will Superman finally discover the truth that he has been seeking? Can they make it in time to save Lois, Jon, and General Lane? And does Superman have what it takes to move forward from his past?

This has been one of the most enjoyable arcs throughout the many of Jurgens run on Action Comics since the beginning of DC rebirth. And thus far this arc has been a thrilling ride due to seeing some of the seeds that were sewn in prior arcs come to fruition. From witnessing what future Zod and his family had accomplished since their escape from the Phantom Zone (during the Superman Revenge arc), to the reveal of Mr. Oz’s true identity. Dan Jurgens has managed to weave a fantastic saga for his run. Admittedly, It was a little redundant of Superman being careless with time and ignoring Booster Gold’s advice here and there, given the context of his motives and the overall arcs that lead up to this one, it was understandable enough that Superman would behave in such a way since his cultural beliefs have been shaken.

It was enjoyable to see where his emotional state and Jurgens handle on the story, would take the Man of Steel. The real spotlight of this issue, (let alone, what I feel is a huge spotlight for the whole arc in total), is Jurgens writing of Booster Gold. Booster Gold has always been a fantastic character when utilized right, and Jurgens reminds readers why he is such a great and likable character. The choices that both Superman and Booster Gold decided to make whether it was right for the universe and for themselves were sensible and enjoyable to read.

In addition, Will Conrad’s artwork was a definitely an enjoyable thrill ride for the eyes. Each of the characters and layouts feels dynamic and the characters feel powerful and indestructible everytime protagonists and antagonists clashed. There are some early Mike Deodato Jr vibes that I get from Will Conrad’s Art that reminds me of Deodato in all the right ways ( that is a compliment to the Conrad!!!).

Ivan Nunes Colors are just as electric and dynamic as Conrad’s inks and pencils that it makes this conclusion a fantastically enjoyable combo of thrills and fun.

Seeing that Jurgens will soon be wrapping up his run on Action Comics, I can’t wait for what He’ll deliver as a nice swan song for Action Comics issue 1000. This is history folks, pick it up, and don’t miss it!