Review by Karl Verhoven
More than previous volumes gathering the James Robinson-led run on Superman, Last Stand of New Krypton Volume Two is a direct continuation from Volume One. That ended with Brainiac having sown death and discord in New Krypton, and having once again surrounded the city in a force field and taken it aboard his craft. Superman’s attempt to prevent it ended in abject failure and being doused in red sun radiation, which removes his powers.
As the story of New Krypton has continued, the 31st century Legion of Super-Heroes have become increasingly relevant, having at first seemed little other than a whimsical inclusion. Their presence is due to raised stakes, as the battle with Brianiac not only impacts on Superman’s present, but also their far distant future, Robinson having conceived a smart addition to Superman lore. Sterling Gates here is an equal collaborator, not just someone ensuring his Supergirl series reflects the ongoing continuity. He co-writes all but one chapter, and his solo spotlight featuring Supergirl and the Legion’s Brainiac 5 is a fulfilling study of repression. “She always told me the first time we met she thought I was a jerk”, reads Brainiac 5’s personal log, continuing “Before the words are out of my mouth I know what I just said is what gave her that impression”.
Ivan Rodriguez provides the sample spread. It shows he may be new to the show, but his open superhero style fits right in with the superior action art supplied by the remaining artists. They’re all good, and while slight differences in style can be seen, the cast look broadly the same throughout. Phenomenal pages from Pete Woods on the final chapter before the epilogue deserve special mention.
General Zod was sidelined during the first volume, but he has a meaty role here, following his own instincts and agenda, and he’s the focus of one great chapter-ending cliffhanger. They’re all great, actually, escalating the threat and signposting what’s to come.
There may be some frustration that not everything Robinson and Gates have been running is resolved here, but a major aspect of their work is, in what’s a thrilling superhero outing. The other plots are picked up in War of the Supermen.
