This is one of those comics that makes me wish the scores were “Writing” and “Art”, not “Story” and “Art.” But they’re not. Still, I’m rating the former based more on the dialogue and characterization than the plot.

I enjoyed SUPERMAN #1, and I enjoyed #2 as well. I’m not the world’s biggest fan of decompression, and so far Perez and Merino have delivered what I feel is a highly readable reminder of what can be fit into a single issue, plot-wise. If the story lacks lasting impact I can hardly fault it for that; SUPERMAN looks to employ the sort of slow build-up of personal side plots that comics classically did, once upon a time. The “Superman fights monsters” bit is obligatory and competent.

As I was reading, I actually found this comic reminding me a bit of Morrison’s ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, at least as far as the amount of content in a given issue. There’s a certain throwback feel here, but throwback enough that it is, at least, “new” relative to recent years. While the quality still can’t compare to ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, I feel the plot content to be equally filling; I just won’t necessarily look back on it with any particular affection a week or a month or a year down the road.

SUPERMAN is the book for the people who want their comics to have a complete story in them rather than having an arc meted out over months. I find room for both styles myself, but I’m glad that SUPERMAN gives me the choice.