New Super-Man #6 (2016)

New Super-Man #6 (2016) – "Made in China" Finale Review π¨π³
Genre
Superhero, Action, Drama, Modern Mythology
Main Characters
-
Kenan Kong / New Super-Man – A brash teenager given the powers of Superman under mysterious circumstances.
-
Bat-Man of China (Wang Baixi) – China's version of the Dark Knight; tactical, restrained, and government-trained.
-
Wonder-Woman of China (Peng Deilan) – Empowered by mystical origins and representing strength, grace, and responsibility.
-
Human Firecracker – A volatile villain with ties to Kenan’s past and a dangerous Starro-related weapon.
-
Dr. Omen – The scientist behind the creation of China's Justice League equivalents.
-
Kenan's Father (Kong Zhongdan) – A journalist with secrets that directly tie into Kenan's heroic journey.
Writer
Gene Luen Yang – National Book Award finalist and Eisner-winning creator known for blending Eastern philosophy and Western superhero traditions.
Artist
Viktor Bogdanovic – Delivers clean, dynamic visuals that bring kinetic energy to every action sequence and emotional nuance to the character moments.
Editor Details
-
Editor: Paul Kaminski
-
Associate Editor: Jessica Chen
Their editorial direction ensured a culturally grounded yet globally accessible superhero story.
Publisher and Brand
DC Comics – Under the DC Rebirth initiative, which aimed to restore legacy, optimism, and depth to the DC Universe post-New 52.
Release Year
2016
Brief Plot Summary
In the thrilling conclusion of the Made in China arc, Kenan Kong, still learning the limits and responsibilities of his powers, confronts the deadly Human Firecracker—a rogue agent using a Starro bomb as leverage. With the lives of his teammates, Bat-Man and Wonder-Woman of China, hanging in the balance, Kenan must wrestle with personal guilt and long-buried secrets involving his family. As the Starro parasite spreads chaos, Kenan’s transformation from cocky teen to a true hero reaches its emotional climax. π§¨π¦Έ♂️π₯
Notable Arcs or Storylines
-
"Made in China" (Issues #1–6): The inaugural storyline that introduces Kenan Kong, a new symbol of hope and complexity, reflecting both Chinese cultural roots and universal heroism.
-
Reveals ties between Kenan’s father and secret revolutionary activities.
-
Builds the foundation for the Justice League of China, a unique spin on classic DC archetypes.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
-
Some fans speculate that Kenan's power source—linked to the mystical Bagua—could be a gateway to introducing more ancient mythological figures into the DC canon.
-
The Starro bomb is interpreted as a metaphor for ideological control, and Human Firecracker may symbolize the dangers of nationalism gone extreme.
-
Kenan's inner conflict—grappling with inherited guilt and newfound power—is seen by many readers as a parallel to the immigrant identity crisis.
Review Summary π
New Super-Man #6 is a standout finale that balances heart-pounding action with deep emotional stakes. Gene Luen Yang’s script offers not just superhero spectacle but thoughtful commentary on identity, family, and destiny. Viktor Bogdanovic’s art complements the narrative with energetic layouts and expressive character work. The character development is especially noteworthy—Kenan matures significantly in just six issues, evolving from a self-centered teen into a leader with purpose.
Verdict: 9/10 ⭐
A compelling and fresh take on Superman’s legacy—one that proves heroism transcends borders. ππͺ
Stay tuned for more reviews from the DC Rebirth era!
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)