Published in 2010, Superman: Earth One is the first of DC's Earth One original graphic novels. Much like Marvel's extremely successful Ultimate Marvel line of books, Earth One will feature new takes on DC's existing characters, and gives writers the freedom to introduce classic heroes to new audiences without being limited to ongoing continuity.Unfortunately, the comic book world has far been spoiled with almost too many different Superman origin stories. Unlike Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, or even Batman, Superman's origin has been retold and rebooted more than enough. His origin just can't seem to be left alone! Several stories have been published in just the last 10 years, including Mark Waid's Birthright, Geoff Johns' Secret Origin, and J. Michael Straczynski's Earth One. It's currently being retold again in the New 52 in Grant Morrison's run on Action Comics. Superman's origin isn't safe from Hollywood reboots either - don't forget Zack Snyder's upcoming Man of Steel film set for 2013.
So how does Superman: Earth One fare? In a nutshell, it's a smooth read but isn't quite the quintessential origin. Too many distinct changes to the Superman mythology make it difficult to accept. With as many Superman origins out there, they are all hard to read with an open mind because his traits and ideals are so important to what makes him who he is. And in this particular case, the new twists that Straczynski decides to explore hurt Superman's origin more than add to it. Shane Davis' art, though not horrible, is also flawed. (Spoilers ahead.)
What exactly went wrong with Superman: Earth One?
1) First off, the art. I'm a fan of Davis' work, but for whatever reason his art here is lacking. I can't quite put my finger on it, but its mediocre stuff at best. The splash pages don't really have the punch in them that they're supposed to. Clark doesn't seem to show much emotion when he needs to, and it gives new life to the emo-Superman debate. And the design for Tyrell, the book's primary villain, is just flat out ugly and borderline ridiculous.
So how does Superman: Earth One fare? In a nutshell, it's a smooth read but isn't quite the quintessential origin. Too many distinct changes to the Superman mythology make it difficult to accept. With as many Superman origins out there, they are all hard to read with an open mind because his traits and ideals are so important to what makes him who he is. And in this particular case, the new twists that Straczynski decides to explore hurt Superman's origin more than add to it. Shane Davis' art, though not horrible, is also flawed. (Spoilers ahead.)
1) First off, the art. I'm a fan of Davis' work, but for whatever reason his art here is lacking. I can't quite put my finger on it, but its mediocre stuff at best. The splash pages don't really have the punch in them that they're supposed to. Clark doesn't seem to show much emotion when he needs to, and it gives new life to the emo-Superman debate. And the design for Tyrell, the book's primary villain, is just flat out ugly and borderline ridiculous.
2) Next up, the "assassination" of Krypton, and the idea that Superman must avenge his murdered home world. While in passing thought it seems like a nice twist, the idea of Superman and revenge just doesn't make sense, and is horribly wrong. Superman is supposed to be the epitome of moral good - it's what makes SUPERMAN Superman, and in my opinion what differs him from every other cape flying through the air. Superman does the right thing because it's the right thing to do. The revenge twist clouds that trait. Which leads us to the next problem of...
3) Clark himself. Throughout the book Clark seems lost and confused. All he wants is to find a well enough paying job so he can support his widowed mother. While there's nothing particularly wrong with that, Clark is equally portrayed as someone who doesn't want anything to do with anyone. Superman is supposed to want to help anyone and everyone, and use his powers for the benefit of all. Instead he's depicted as an angsty-emo twenty-something that can't seem to decide what to do. It's almost as if he's FORCED to become Superman, which is absolutely wrong.
With that said, as an origin story Superman: Earth One is clearly unique, but a very difficult one to accept. Certain aspects of his origin are too concrete to change and ruin the character completely. Definitely a different take on the character but raises too many flags in the process.
FINAL VERDICT: C+
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