ACTION COMICS: FUTURES END #1 Review


Who or what will step up to inspire the people in Superman’s stead? Read on to find out.

The official description from DC Comics:

With the Man of Steel missing, ordinary people around the world start to mysteriously exhibit his strengths and abilities…

Action Comics Futures End #1 3DAction Comics steps into Futures End month, showing how in 5 years from now Clark Kent will lead a secluded life in Africa, staying out of the spotlight. This decision ultimately allows a sand like being (taking the image of Superman) to spread Superman’s morals, inspiring people to reach their full potential. Focusing on three characters in particular, the story goes on to show how their life choices reflect this potential, and how Superman’s morals shapes the outcome.

Current Scooby-Doo Team-Up and Teen Titans Go! writer Sholly Fisch handles the script for this issue, giving a very deep and well thought out story. Though I questioned how Clark got to Africa, and why he wasn’t being Superman any more, I quickly found myself immersed in this tale. The fact that Clark himself barely appears in the book adds that much more weight to it’s overall expectations, and I felt it paid off well. The symbol that Superman brings is shown wonderfully, and though the characters weren’t that interesting, the concept was.

Pascal Alixe and Vicente Cifuentes handle the artwork on this issue, and though the difference in style is noticeable, it doesn’t retract much from the overall look and flow of the issue. Giving a highly detailed, and textured opening to the issue, Alixe truly impressed. I did however find the finish to be a little grainy, and ever so slightly jarring. Cifuentes on the other hand gives a much more sharper look, and though the detail isn’t as high, the finish is much smoother. Transitioning between the two we get wonderful colours from Pete Pantazis, with his palette capturing the concept of this tale beautifully.

Action Comics: Futures End is a nice one-shot, as though the lack of Superman’s appearance may seem off putting, the symbolic tale proves otherwise. Recommended.

OUR RATING
7.5
  • + Superman's morals clearly on display.
  • + Sholly Fisch delivers a very symbolic tale.
  • + Wonderful art from Pascal Alixe and Vicente Cifuentes.
  • - What caused Superman to step out of the spotlight?

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