Action Comics No. 890

DC Comics

Written by Paul Cornell; art by Pete Woods

Jul 16, 2010 Web Exclusive By Jeremy Nisen

(Warning: mild spoilers)

Action Comics, for the uninitiated, is the comic book that brought us Superman and is most associated with the Man of Steel.

Starting in Action Comics 890, the star of the book is Superman’s arch nemesis, Lex Luthor. It’s brought to us by television scribe (Dr. Who) and recent DC exclusive writer Paul Cornell, and artist Pete Woods.

DC has a history of well-written, entertaining villain-centric books, and this kick-off issue to Lex’s story appears to be heading in a fine direction. At least to start, it seems Lex’s quest is to obtain a slew of power rings, like those wielded by the Green Lanterns and the other color corps.

Characterization of Lex—megalomaniacal, calculating, single-minded, narcissistic, and brilliant—is expected of the character, but Cornell pulls it off seamlessly and cleverly in his own right. Even more telling of Cornell’s insight into Lex’s psyche: the villain’s self-delusion, contradicting his grandiose statements through his actions. Case in point: Lex fires a scientist employee for telling him “no”; mere pages later, he explains that he built his Lois Lane robot to offer another perspective and challenge him, ground him. This flies in the face of his earlier action.

Speaking of action in Action— there is indeed, some action, and a last-page reveal of Lex’s first antagonist promises to be great fun for fans of the Fawcett Comics properties (and, no, it ain’t the Big Red Cheese),

Oh, and Pete Woods art = pretty.

Very recommended, with the caveat that this is but step number one in a longer journey; please, Mr. Cornell (and DC editorial), don’t let us down. (www,dccomics.com)

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