Action Comics #1031
DC Comics
Written by Phillip Kennedy Johnson
Art by Daniel Sampere
Colors by Adriano Lucas
Letters by Dave Sharpe
The Rundown: Clark rescues a group of refugees, but their presence might not be a coincidence.
Clark and Jon race to rescue a group of refugees fleeing War World while at the same time fighting off the Warzoons sent to destroy them. With the refugee ship crumbling, Superman races to rescue as many of the refugees as he can while Jon stops the remaining attack ships. In the aftermath, Clark takes the survivors to the fortress while Atlantis takes the attackers into custody.
Clark calls in some help from Lois and Kara as he tries to determine how these refugees are able to speak a dead Kryptonian language and why they have his sigil burned into their hands. As Superman goes to investigate the refugee ship, Lois and Kara research the language their speaking and Jon’s suspicions are heightened. Suspicions that might be confirmed when one of the refugees wakes up and remembers her time with Mongol.
The Story: Johnson takes the story in some impressive and interesting directions in this issue. There is a serious tone to the characters and plot and that tone is perfectly embodied in Jon’s reaction to the situation. The mystery of the refugees is intriguing as well and I like how Johnson doesn’t give everything away, but also doesn’t stretch it out unnecessarily. All of the character dialogue is done well and I am interested in seeing what happens next.
The Art: Sampere delivers some stunning art in this issue. All of the action is beautifully framed and full of energy. The character moments are wonderfully detailed and eye-catching.