The New 52’s full reboot of the DC Universe officially published all eight issues of Acton Comics’ first volume, Superman and the Men of Steel in 2011-2012. It received divisive reactions from critics, fans and readers alike, as I’ve mentioned on my review on “Batman: Faces of Death,” I intend to write and post reviews of The New 52 regarding characters and teams to celebrate the 15th anniversary of DC’s rebooted universe. Besides that, I have a few reasons why I wanna review Superman and the Men of Steel.
- Milly Alcock will portray Supergirl in a solo film coming in June 26, 2026.
- James Gunn’s working simultaneously on Creature Commandos’ second season and Superman sequel, “Man of Tomorrow.” The latter will be released on July 7, 2027.
- Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight will be released on May 29, 2026.
- Aaron Pierre will portray my favorite Green Lantern, John Stewart in an upcoming HBO series titled, “Lanterns.” It’s slated to air sometime around 2026.
- Robert Pattinson will reprise his role as Batman in sequel intended to come out in October 1, 2027. It’s set outside James Gunn’s DC Universe.
This review contains SPOILERS. Consider this a warning. If you’re a mega Superman fan, you’re not gonna like this reboot.
Strong & Weak Aspects
Strong: Rags Morales artwork is splendid. Every single panel has a cinematic atmosphere.
Action Sequences are good.
Like his first appearance in the very first issue of Action Comics #1, Supes can’t fly. He jumps like Hulk going from Point A to Point B. Before Superman battles galactic threats, he combats corrupt businessmen and low life thugs.
Prior to obtaining his suit, Supes wears a blue t-shirt with an S logo, blue jeans and red cape. A unique homemade costume.
John Henry Irons/Steel factors in as Supes is busy retrieving a shrunken Metropolis in a bottle, Steel prevents Brainiac’s collateral damage on Earth.
In issue #1, one guy yells, “Somebody save me!” A reference to the opening theme song from Smallville.
Random Thoughts
- I admit, I never read other New 52 comics. I only read Batman and Deathstroke.
- Every time I read a Superman comic, I can already hear Tim Daly or George Newbern in my head.
Weak: I can’t believe I’m saying this, Grant Morrison didn’t do a solid job retelling Supes’ early days.
Pacing felt quick for an eight-issue storyline.
I know this iteration of Superman’s going back to the Golden Age of Comics, but the way he interrogates a man like Batman feels way outta character. Supes is supposed to be a Boy Scout. His adopted parents raised him as a nice guy and a symbol of hope.
I’m fully aware James Gunn’s Superman finally addressed he wears hypnotic glasses to fool people, but this version only wears normal glasses and baggy clothes to hide his muscles. Nobody suspects Clark & Supes are the same person.
Issue #6 takes place five years into the future with Superman tasked to repair time a bubble felt disjointed. Has nothing to do with Supes’ first year. Should’ve saved it for another storyline.
Issue #5 has an additional short story involving the lives Supes’ adopted parents prior to crash landing on Earth. I don’t give a crud about Jonathan & Martha. Unnecessary padding.
Continuity Error: In issue #8, Superman’s suit on his chest is white instead of blue.
The Final Verdict: D, For Delirious!
Superman and the Men of Steel is a sloppy start. I find it jarring Grant Morrison who made a legit comics like Doom Patrol didn’t do so well rebooting Superman. It pales in comparison to “All-Star Superman.” Read that one instead. I have more New 52 stuff on my plate. Which ones should I review next? Please leave a comment.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 