NEW COMICS 4 THIS WEEK (02/05/25)
*All comics will be rated on a scale from 1 to 10*
Absolute Superman # 4 
Avengers # 23 
Batman # 157 
Gatchaman: Only One Earth # 1
JSA # 4
Phoenix # 8 
The Rocketfellers # 3
Shazam! # 20
Space Ghost # 9
The Spectacular Spider-Men # 12
The Ultimates # 9
Wolverine # 6
Absolute Superman #4 – Jason Aaron continues to discover new and innovative ways to rework Superman and his world. This is both surprising and satisfying for anyone seeking an alternate Superman title apart from the standard DC offerings. The exciting takes on both Lois Lane and The Omega Men serve as excellent driving forces, making this series a must-read. They reinvent these characters in a way that feels powerful without alienating longtime fans, while Superman himself remains awe-inspiring without appearing dark. Four issues in, this title is still a phenomenon in the Absolute line and is set to grow with each issue.
Batman #157 – Chip Zdarsky’s three-year run on this title comes to an end, and he certainly goes out with a bang as he wraps up every plot thread he introduced, leaving Batman a changed man. This transformation particularly follows his battle with Commander Star, whose true identity is a complete shock. Batman comes to terms with his humanity, showcasing how much he’s grown under Zdarsky’s direction amid the ups and downs he has faced throughout this run. While this issue had some slower beats that interrupted the momentum, the action sequences compensated for it, making it a compelling read that might leave anyone reaching for popcorn or chips. Ultimately, this issue presents a solid conclusion, tying everything up neatly, except for the lingering fact that Vandal Savage is still the police commissioner, which may or may not be resolved after this issue. Still, Zdarsky closes his run in a way that shows Batman moving away from the shadows while Gotham continues to thrive, regardless of the challenges it faces. With some plot threads still unresolved, I hope Zdarsky revisits these elements, but for now, it’s a memorable farewell, despite readers having to navigate some highs and lows during those three years.
Shazam! #20 – This issue of “Shazam!” features guest writer Sina Grace in a truly bizarre story that has to be experienced firsthand, with guest star Jon Kent, aka Superman, being transformed back into a kid! This premise aims to evoke fond memories of the pre-teen Jon Kent from the “Rebirth” era, but its execution often comes off as goofy. The appearance of Damien Wayne feels out of place and doesn’t mesh well with Grace’s direction, resembling a cheap version of “BIG.” In this Shazam story, Jon takes center stage, making The Captain feel more like a co-star, while Billy Batson serves primarily as a device for Jon to relate to. Although this approach makes sense, it seems the story would have fit better in a Superman annual or special rather than Shazam. Sina Grace had good intentions for this tale, it just felt out of place within Shazam’s universe. Despite this speed bump, it will be great to see Josie Campbell return in full form. Unfortunately, this issue wasn’t as charming or exciting, but hopefully, the next fill-in issue will be outstanding.
Well, that’s it for me this week, Thanks for sticking around, and I look forward to seeing you next time.
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