Action comic #1 recently debuted as part of DC comics new 52. The new 52 is a re-launch of the DC universe in an attempt to re-imagine the publisher’s beloved heroes. Since DC announced this bold new direction, the reaction of the fan base has been a mix of skepticism and curious optimism.

Superman has always been one of DC comic’s most iconic characters. So how did his reimagining turn out? Remarkably well, I must say.

Veteran comic writer Grant Morrison’s characterization of Superman is surprisingly fresh, yet remains true enough to the Superman’s roots. The story is set early in his career; Superman has been making his presence known in Metropolis for about 6 months now, saving people and fighting crime. Of course his actions have caught the attention of the military, and General Lane has brought Lex Luthor in as a consultant to help them capture this strange visitor. Superman himself seems to be more grounded in this issue At times he comes off a little full of himself, which is easy to relate to. I mean, if you could do the things Superman could do, it might go to your head as well.   

Superman also seems to be not quite the powerhouse we know him to be. Sure, bullets still bounce off him, but when he is hit with artillery, it knocks him on his big blue butt. Don’t expect to see him taking flight either. Superman is back to leaping tall buildings again, as opposed to flying. Oh, and then there’s the costume…or lack of costume really. Superman sports a T-shirt with his trademark logo, a small cape, jeans, and a working class pair of boots. That’s the other thing I really enjoyed reading this issue Superman appears to be a man of the people once more. In fact, he even suggests that the law doesn’t apply to the wealthy like it does to those who are not so well-to-do. Could we have a more radical Superman on our hands?

In the past, Superman has been written as a big blue boy scout, one who upholds the law even when he disagrees with it. Morrison’s Superman has a more Mid-American outlook; he was raised on a farm after all. He seems in touch with his working class roots and is not afraid to stick it to the man. When Superman takes down a corporate giant for using unethical practices, Lex and General Lane make their move, in an attempt to subdue the man of steel. Superman battles it out with some Police squads and tanks, narrowly escaping.