Action Comics #52 – Detailed Overview
Genre:
Superhero, Action, Science Fiction, Drama
Main Characters:
- Superman
(Pre-New 52 / Classic Clark Kent) – A version of Superman who survived
the reboot of the DC Universe and operates in secret.
- Superman
(New 52 / Current Kal-El) – The canonical Superman of this timeline,
weakened and grappling with his fading powers.
- Lois
Lane – Iconic journalist and emotional anchor in both Supermen’s
lives.
- Superboy
(Jonathan Kent) – The son of pre-New 52 Superman and Lois Lane.
- Solar
Flare Superman – A variant of Kal-El driven by the volatile solar
energy within him.
Writer:
Peter J. Tomasi
Artist:
Penciller: Dale Eaglesham
Inker: Scott Hanna
Colorist: Tomeu Morey
Editor Details:
Editor: Eddie Berganza
Assistant Editor: Andrew Marino
Publisher and Brand:
Publisher: DC Comics
Brand: The New 52 (toward the end of its run, bridging to DC Rebirth)
Release Year:
2016
Brief Plot Summary:
In Action Comics #52, the storyline "The Final Days of
Superman" escalates as both the pre-New 52 Superman and his New 52
counterpart confront each other face-to-face. With the New 52 Superman dying
from a culmination of overexposure to solar radiation and injuries sustained
from earlier battles, he discovers the presence of another Clark Kent — one
from a previous universe. This encounter is far from a peaceful union; the New
52 Superman, now more aggressive due to his solar flare condition, sees his
counterpart as a threat rather than an ally. The tension between the two Men of
Steel highlights a central dilemma — identity, legacy, and survival — as both
Supermen strive to protect what matters most: their families and Earth’s
future.
Notable Arcs or Storylines:
- "The
Final Days of Superman" – A pivotal crossover event spanning
multiple Superman titles in 2016, leading into the DC Rebirth
relaunch. It explores mortality, duality, and legacy, culminating in the
death of the New 52 Superman and setting the stage for the pre-New 52
Superman to assume the mantle in the Rebirth continuity.
- Prelude
to DC Rebirth – This issue is essential reading for understanding the
transition from The New 52 era to DC Rebirth, marking a major shift
in DC’s narrative universe.
Fan Theories or Interpretations:
Many fans interpret the clash between the two Supermen as a symbolic
confrontation between eras. The pre-New 52 Superman embodies traditional
heroism and moral constancy, whereas the New 52 Superman reflects modern
complexity and vulnerability. Some readers suggest that the solar flare
transformation in the New 52 Superman was not only a plot device but a metaphor
for burning out — a hero too consumed by power and expectation. The emotional
weight of the issue also sparked theories about the legacy of Superman’s
symbol, suggesting that the spirit of Superman is less about continuity and
more about hope, regardless of timeline.
Review Summary:
Action Comics #52 delivers high-stakes emotional depth with stunning
visuals. Peter J. Tomasi weaves a powerful narrative about identity and
sacrifice, while Dale Eaglesham’s artwork emphasizes both the might and
fragility of the Man of Steel. The contrasting characterizations of the two
Supermen are nuanced, showing maturity in writing and art. Colors by Tomeu
Morey elevate the intensity of each page, especially in the climactic
confrontation scenes. The story is heartfelt, dynamic, and deeply respectful of
Superman’s legacy — a must-read for fans of the Last Son of Krypton.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
