Adventures of the Super Sons #8 // Review
The endearing progenies of Batman and Superman return, while Peter J Tomasi and Carlo Barberi continue their fun space excursion with the duo and the boys narrowly escape the clutches of their crazed alien captors. Tomasi and Barberi work together to deliver yet another light-hearted chapter of these two best friends trying to make their way home. This book evokes the nostalgic Saturday morning cartoon feeling from days long since passed and serves as fantastic fan service for readers looking for more Jon and Damian.
Damian has broken Jon out of his prison cell as they finally make their escape with the help of Joker Junior. Meanwhile, young Lex Luthor and his gang of villain counterparts try to capture the boys within the giant space station. Joker Junior takes the initiative to help the boys after double-crossing them previously. In an unfortunate turn of events, Joker Junior loses his life in the process although managing to get the boys out of harm's way successfully and off of the space station.
Carlo Santucci brings the childhood wonderment to the series, his cartoon sensibilities fits perfectly with the aesthetic of the title. Less about the theatrical spectacle and more just about the sheer fun between the boys and their outlandish adventures. Santucci’s character designs seem primed and ready for an animated series, accompanied by Matt Santorelli‘s color work makes the pages truly pop with high gloss.
The selling point of the series is solely based on the interactions between the boys, their overall friendship and Tomasi takes full advantage of this niche. Without accomplishing much other than getting captured and escaping only to get caught and escape again, Tomasi manages never to take himself too seriously and just let loose with the series. His affinity for both boys from the previous series shine through with each new chapter, outside of Morrison for Damian, Tomasi is the definitive voice for the young heroes.
This charming, lighthearted tale of friendship continues to garner affinity for the series and the boys. With Jon aged up in the main Superman title, this series stands at the moment as his last days as a child. With four issues remaining, the bittersweet finale rears its head as fans prepare to let go of Jon’s childhood. Tomasi and Barberi continue to create a fun read for readers of all ages.
Grade: B+
