With only an issue to go it’s a good thing Johns has somewhat given us a plot to work with. Not that I mind in the past with each issue bringing up Kal’s early history as Superman. I felt that there had to be some type of over arching story to deal with. Here Geoff Johns has given us that with this issue and it’s pretty obvious from the cover: Superman vs Lex Luthor.

The old formula can never get old if handled right. Thanksfully Johns actually doesn’t focus on Luthor as much with this issue. It’s all about General Lane trying to get in the head of the Man of Steel. Considering I don’t know much about Lane, it’s nice to see why he has such hatred for an obviously good intentioned hero. Then Johns gives us the introduction to one of my favorite villains: Metallo. Loved to see the origin of his again and it brings back memories of watching the Superman: Animated Series as a kid. Again does anyone else hear Malcolm McDowell when he speaks?

Gary Frank, sorta on the same veins of Lemire with Sweet Tooth, didn’t do much ‘amazing’ work with this issue. It is still gorgeous and one of the best looking comic on the stands; I don’t wanna sound like I’m disputing that. Just…..well nothing really ‘wow’ me with his work this month. Which is fine, even when Frank gets a bit of a ‘easier’ script to work with he still dishes out incredible work. The beginning is pretty sweet with all the fire effects and a great introduction for Superman. But the fight with Metallo isn’t all that….again ‘wow’ should be used. It’s drawn real well but nothing really stands out to remember it. Again don’t wanna sound like I’m hating on the guy, I’m not. Just some observations is all.

This is still a solid title to read no doubt about it. Even with the introduction of some type of plot for this mini it just didn’t feel that ‘amazing’ if you get my drift. A solid title all around, but now it seems like maybe finishing it sooner then later is a good idea. Plus the lateness didn’t help either…