Mild Mannered Reviews – Superman #36

Superman #36

“Prime Time” – Part 1

Writer: Joshua Williamson
Artist: Dan Mora
Cover: Dan Mora
Variant Covers: Juan Ferreyra, Rod Reis, Taurin Clarke, ACO
Corner Box Variant Cover: Skylar Patridge

Reviewed by: Adam Dechanel

Lois is mortal once more and reluctantly the guardian of Superboy Prime. It seems the Justice League – and the world at large – still remember Prime’s criminal past and are doubtful of his ‘redemption arc’.

Lois and Prime head to Metropolis and Prime explains to Lois that he’s only ever known Superman’s life from the comics. His own life has largely been an Oan prison and now a real life beckons.

When Ignition appears in the city, Prime is first on the scene and makes short work of the villain. During the fight Prime notices a glitch where the outcome of the battle is rewritten as it is playing out and this throws him.

He doesn’t mention this to Lois but struggles to come to terms with the fact that the comic book history of this universe seems to be changing around him.

Some of Lois’ attempts to reach out to Prime seem to work and he decides to get a job in a local comic shop and adopt the new identity of CK.

With access to comics perhaps he can solve the mystery of this reality.

Across Metropolis a ghost of Superman’s past reappears and watches Prime from a distance. What does this villain want with Prime?

To Be Continued…

Story – 5: Though I feel Prime should have his own book, I must admit that I thoroughly enjoyed this issue. I find his banter refreshing and his breaking the fourth wall invigorating. I hope it is utilized as the story develops, especially with the mystery of the fluctuating reality. I’m not sure yet about his job in a comic book store but I do like that he was smart enough to refuse a job at the Daily Planet in case it jeopardized Superman’ identity. I also like that, despite everything, Lois and CK are optimistic Superman will return and that Prime is determined to honor Superman’s legacy.


Art – 5: The art was really fun this issue, there were some great standout moments such as the embracing of the 1990’s art and the over-the-top design of Oblivion. Then there was the moment the scene rewrote itself. Conceptually, Mora is having an absolute ball with Prime and that joy is exemplified through the positively charged pencil work.


Cover Art – 5: The cover is bold and vibrant. Exactly the change from the usual cover with Superman and setting him apart from Prime. It’s very reminiscent of Conner’s debut cover during “Reign of the Supermen” many moons ago. What can I say, I’m a sucker for an homage!


Variant Cover (Juan Ferreyra) – 4: I liked the video game scenario variant that was released previously and it is great that this has been awarded a wraparound cover. It feels like we’re looking at an arcade cabinet screen! Another riff on CK’s multiversal ties.


Variant Cover (Rod Reis) – 5: This is a really fun cover. I feel like the old Prime would absolutely lap up “Absolute Superman”, not so sure CK would be a big fan or whether he’d be deep diving into the “Man of Steel” miniseries! I love that the artists are having fun with CK’s multiversal roots.


Variant Cover (Taurin Clarke) – 4: I do like a painted cover and this is expertly done. My only issue is that all three Superboy’s look menacing, aggressive stripped of their optimism. I’d put money on them being mad at an off camera Lex Luthor or Brainiac though!


Variant Cover (ACO) – 4: We rarely see a pensive Prime and this cover definitely shows a different side to the character. The garish color palette is not for me but as it connects to the other books to make a maxi image. I’m sure the theming will make this design choice make a lot of sense.


Corner Box Variant Cover (Skylar Patridge) – 4: Words can’t express my gleeful joy at the return of the corner box. Seeing it blown up to really enjoy the design to the fullest is just as thrilling. It looks awesome so I’m hoping DC releases it as a poster or even a phone wallpaper, mostly to indulge my inner nerd.


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