Superman Unchained #8 Review

Can the Man of Steel survive this battle? Should you care? Read on to find out.

The official description from DC:

It’s all going to hell as cosmic-level war breaks out! The full truth of who – or what – Wraith is finally comes to light!

For all the delays this still remains as a series that deserves a spot on your pull-list. Many of you might be asking: why? Well for starters it’s because this outstanding creative team understands their mandate but more so they get the big blue boy scout. If you’ve ever wanted to see the last son from Krypton pushed to his limits, both mentally and physically, then you need go no further.

Scott Snyder once again pens the narrative and the seasoned scribe knows exactly what this tale requires. In this issue we see Kal-El take on Wraith, but this bout is about more than mere physical prowess as the author quickly forces the audience into a head game of sorts. Somewhat subtle references to other DC power players highlight the strength of their lasting status as industry icons, in an opus that deserves recognition. There were bits of dialogue that came off a bit touch and go but for the most part the overall piece lived with a level of eloquence that honestly fit the journey unfolding before our eyes.

I grew up on the now classic illustrators from the 90s. And for me greats like Michael Turner and Marc Silvestri stood out, but Jim Lee was the only other one who could equal or exceed their skill level. This latest release cements that opinion as eye popping visuals with an instantly engaging birth of sensory detail succeed and expands on the plot at play. Each pencil stroke has a clear intent while the colors by Alex Sinclair further highlight a component that happens to be up for the clear-cut quality that Clark Kent deserves.

Superman Unchained #8 is a comic book that’s easy to grade. As a penultimate issue it perfectly sets up the final test for our hero while highlighting how far he’s come. Recommended.