I mentioned in my review of the first volume of Grounded that I hadn’t read a Superman comic since at least 1997, so this series being my first in that span of time is in retrospect, a tragedy. This book is not good. It makes me question whether or not they even make Superman comics that are good. I have some ostensibly good ones on my TBR list, but as far as I have actual knowledge, Superman in comics is boring, pompous, overwritten, and stupid. And that is sad.
After writing the first volume of Grounded, Straczynski takes a step back into just doing the plot, while Chris Roberson fleshes it out. His style is even more robotic than Straczynski. Say something about JMS, his dialogue may be wholly his own, but he at least makes it work.
Superman finishes his jaunt across America to find himself by first questioning the very notion of there being a public Superman, then being visited by a bunch of Superhero friends like The Flash and Batman to shepherd him in the right direction. Turns out Superman is depressed and that’s what’s causing all his problems. Which is a nice sentiment! I like that depression is being taken seriously here. However, the way things turn out is just dumb so it’s a bit of a mixed bag.
I don’t recommend picking up these comics at all. You should probably read something else. Not giving this one star because it wasn’t as stupid as it could have been.
The only Superman comic everyone in the world should read is Grant Morrison’s All-Star Superman. It’s pretty much comics perfection. I never used to like Superman, but after that 12-issue run, I get so incredibly upset when he’s portrayed badly (DC’s current movies, I’m looking at you), which is most of the time. You should absolutely read it, the writing is excellent and the art is gorgeous.
Niiice. Thank you! I don’t have that one on my list.
Superman is my favorite superhero, but I’ve really just been a huge fan of the movies and various TV shows and cartoons, not the comics. Good to know at least one of them will be satisfying!