In Review: Absolute Superman (2024-) #4 – Superman on the Run, Hunted by Peacemakers and Lazarus Corp

Synopsis: Superman is on the run, pursued across the globe by armed Peacemakers and Lazarus Corp’s top field agent, Lois Lane. Now a new force joins the chase, but are the mysterious Omega Men friends or foes for Kal-El?

The Story

Following the events of previous issues, the Lazarus Corp’s Peacemakers have launched a global hunt for Superman. Among them is Lois Lane, but she has her own agenda—she’s discovered that the corporation’s Brainia Computer Algorithm has been heavily manipulating reports to cover up the truth. Determined to uncover what’s really happening, Lois sets out to find Superman, hoping to speak with him. Along the way, she meets many of the world’s exploited workers—people Superman has saved—and sees firsthand how deeply Lazarus Corp is oppressing the lower classes.

As Lois gets closer to tracking down Superman, she is contacted by a terrorist organization known as the Omega Men. They have long been a thorn in Lazarus Corp’s side and are allegedly responsible for the murder of a friend of her father’s. Meanwhile, Jimmy Olsen tries to reach out, urging Lois to see the damage the Peacemakers are causing in the corporation’s name. Before she can decide where she stands, Superman intervenes—saving both Lois and Jimmy from the Peacemakers.

Artwork

Rafa Sandoval crafts some stunning artwork in this issue. The story kicks off with a sort of world tour, showing a representative from each country Lois and the Peacemakers visit as they recount their encounters with Superman.

The standout panels come toward the end. I especially enjoyed the meeting between Lois and Jimmy Olsen, as well as Superman’s dramatic entrance just in time to save them from a Peacemaker attack. The red mist effect surrounding him as he appears was a fantastic touch. And that final panel? Absolutely chilling.

Overall

This is an intriguing fourth issue that introduces a classic Superman character in a completely new context. The addition of the Omega Men to the plot provides a fascinating counterpoint to the main villains, and I’m excited to learn more in the upcoming issues.