All-Star Superman
All-Star Superman
Authors: Grant Morrison
Artists: Frank Quitely and Jamie Grant
Published: November 2005 – October 2008
Issues: 12
Considered one of the greatest Superman stories ever told and the inspiration for the upcoming Superman Legacy film by James Gunn, All-Star Superman is a stand-alone set of Superman stories that take place as Superman is slowly dying and trying to make a difference in the world.
It’s been hard to avoid the hype over All-Star Superman over the years, and despite not reading much in regards to The Man of Steel, I did read All-Star a few years ago. I enjoyed it, but it’s the book has a strange vibe, no doubt caused by the unusual artwork, which I’m just going to say, I absolutely hate. It does nothing for me and the clay, doughy faces is just not my thing. However, I’m all for people taking their own unique spin on things, and I’m glad so many folks enjoy this different telling of Superman.
All-Star Superman is over-the-top and doesn’t feel grounded at all. It feels like it exists in a different world. With that being said, the core of Superman, although quiet and maybe even a little depressed, seems to be solid and strong. He’s honorable and caring feels like Superman, even if he’s just a little off. Then again, I do wonder how different artwork might change my views on this.
Almost pulpy in the sci-fi department, All-Star Superman tells a variety of stories that are almost “a day in the life of.” There isn’t much of a continuity between them all and despite being entertaining, it is a bit disjointed.
I want to love All-Star Superman, but for me, it’s just okay. It’s an interesting take and I can see why folks would love it, but it’s just not my cup of tea.
