BIZARO YEAR NONE #3: Who Superman is Supposed to Be.

What makes Superman who he is supposed to be? Is it his strength, or is it the way he cares for the world around him? Bizarro has created a twisted world in Superman’s image, and he is about to get a lesson, as class is in session for Superman 101.

Creative Team: Eric Carrasco, Kevin Smith, Nick Pitarra, Michael Garland, and Dave Sharpe.

The Story:

This issue is multifaceted, with there being times I found myself sympathizing with Bizarro and other times seeing him for the monster he truly is. But I think what Smith and Carrasco have done well is shine a new light on the character and asking if he’s a product of his environment or there is good within him. Jimmy Olsen and Perry White continue to be so well written as they share a moment, drawing their characters closer together. White, for the first time, sees Olsen for what he aspires to be and sees himself within Jimmy at the same time. It’s not about action in this series but the characters themselves, which is why this run stands tall!

The Art:

Just when I think I cannot be more grossed out Nick and Michael prove me wrong. The close ups of hair down a drain or the way Bizarro mutates and transforms into something even more grotesque are marquees of how detailed this duo can be within the panels. However, there’s a page that stood out and brought out a ton of emotion. The design is a splash page broken up into fragments and I felt as though I were breaking with Bizarro and his illusion of Superman at the same time. It was beautifully colored and drawn with Dave’s lettering added a layer of emotionality I wasn’t expecting. Beneath the rough and tough to look at exterior there is beauty in the art and the same may be able to be said of Bizarro.

Final Thoughts:

Bizarro Year None #3 shines brightly on our characters who have become desperate to break free of Bizarro’s clutches. However, in doing so they may have made their lives worse, and it’s a race against time and I cannot wait to see how Olsen, Lois, and White escape this mess!

Overall Grade: 8.5/10

The Nerd Initiative crew will be taking over NYCC so if you see us say hello! Let us know how you feel about this issue and check out more reviews by Matt!