There's a LOT going on in Action Comics #957. Not just do we see Lex Luthor become the self-proclaimed new Superman, and pre-Flashpoint Superman coming out of retirement before it even began, but the comic keeps throwing other surprise appearances (which are, unfortunately, all spoiled by the cover) at you whenever it can.
But writer Dan Jurgens' greatest achievement is that this sheer amount of information and action hardly ever seems cheap or to be there just for its own sake. Admittedly, Superman's decision to wear the cape and shield again appears too hasty and inconsiderate, as Jurgens does not give the event enough time to properly unravel and fall into place. But apart from that, Action Comics #957 offers a well-balanced affair that knows to impress with its pace and artist Patrick Zircher's epic battles in the skies of Metropolis. His approach of drawing characters and environment not too sharp also adds some beneficial grit to the comic, and his inks (especially on faces) are simply superb.
After all, this is a more than satisfying start into the "Rebirth" Action Comics series with much to look forward to.
8/10
Further Links:
