“Savage Dawn” finally sets in the extra-sized “Superman” #50, where Gene Luen Yang’s tenure as writer on the book also comes to a close. With four artists involved (including a classic Superman artist from the ‘90s), this issue is an action-packed and fast-paced conclusion.
Written by Gene Luen Yang
Illustrated by Howard Porter, Patrick Zircher, and Ardian SyafSuperman returns in all his glory in this very special issue that sees the Man of Steel back to full power as he faces his greatest enemy and also comes face to face with the pre-Flashpoint Kal-El! At last, it’s the meeting of the Supermen you’ve been waiting for!
The explosive promise in the solicitation for “Superman” #50, sadly, is a false one. Instead, what we get is a fun exploration of what core characteristics make up Clark Kent/Superman from writer Gene Luen Yang and the artists involved in fleshing out this finale to “Savage Dawn”. Yang, as he’s done so well in the past, inserts Silver Age elements in his script to smile-inducing effect. Vandal Savage is a most formidable foe for Clark and one who has done some of the most damage to him than any other villain in his existence. This issue proves it and Yang writes an epic story that also succeeds at being a very personal one as well. Although his classic Super-family and confidantes are not utilized that much in “Superman” #50, there is definite teases and promises of further exploits that are tantalizingly presented before us.
Strength and heart are the core characteristics explored by Yang in “Superman” #50. By exploring his past, possible futures, and a terrifying present, Yang gives us a Clark that is the epitome of a hero. Although he has great physical might, he has a grounded moral center that guides every decision. Whether on an epic scale or a personal one, the experiences that Superman must face are dealt with in a calm and centered way. The Clark in this issue has been through the worst of times and come out of it as the hero once again. Yang believes in Clark and, by his pen, also makes us believe.
There is always a risk for an issue when multiple artists are involved. The four involved with “Superman” #50 bring their own strengths to each scene they must render on the page. The primary artist on this issue is Howard Porter and, with colorist Hi-Fi, is the most successful of the four. His action scenes are epic and brimming with movement on the page. In one particular splash page where Superman is pushing a massive object through space, it appears as if he’s going to fly right off the page. The line work, emotional strain of Clark’s face, and the cinematic nature of the splash give life to Porter’s singularly unique style. It’s a style that is effective in both scenes like this one and the rare quiet moments that require an essence of humanity and heart.
Patrick Zircher is another artist who has a distinct style but is also one that is less bombastic (in a good way) than Porter. Zircher is required to convey quieter moments that also, however, contain much tension. His faces can communicate complicated and ancient evil as well as a furrowed brow of concern. His past work on “Green Arrow” and his contribution on “Superman” #50 are proof that he deserves further room to flex his artistic abilities with DC.
Ardian Syaf’s pages are not as strong or detailed as the other artists and sometimes appeared rushed in the facial expressions of his characters. His contributions seem like they were required at the last minute, yet he still succeeds at conveying what happens in the relatively simple actions in the scenes he’s required to draw on the page.
Hi-Fi’s coloring throughout the issue is the one constant on every page that brings consistency and bold drama. “Superman” #50 is a very colorful issue without being overwhelming or bawdy. Like Yang does with his writing, Hi-Fi use their color palette to balance the seriousness of Clark’s situation with the right amount of levity. Whether in a far off land or in deep space, Hi-fi’s colors evoke daring heroics and complexity.
Because it’s the fiftieth issue, one would expect a nod to the historical. The addition of that fourth artist is a nice wink to long time readers, while the depiction of Clark throughout the issue is one of a classic hero that most people will recognize. The balance between retaining the essence of the hero while making him a three-dimensional character is evident in “Superman” #50. The ending is a thrilling promise of further adventures for the hero and his family.
Final Verdict: 8.0 – Gene Luen Yang ends his run with a satisfying conclusion to a storyline that was a nice 360 degree turn for the Man of Steel.
