Supergirl #39 Review

Supergirl #39
Who is Superwoman Part 3: Ticking Clocks

Written by: Sterling Gates
Art by: Jamal Igle and Talent Caldwell
Inks by: Jon Sibal and Talent Caldwell
Cover by: Joshua Middleton

“Superman” and “Action Comics” are now being headlined by C-list superheroes (no offense Mon-El) which, like it or not, leaves “Supergirl” as the flagship book of the Superman family. At least she can carry her own.

Deep in the middle of the Superwoman saga we find ourselves alongside Supergirl with endless questions and few answers. Who is she? What is her true purpose? Is she even Kryptonian? The last issue seemingly answered that question, but this time they backed away from that claiming her suit protected her from Reactron’s blast. One of the first chink’s in Gates’ shining armor. The story follows Kara’s search for her prey, her mother’s growing frustration with her and offers only more questions about Superwoman’s true intentions. It all leads to what feels like a final confrontation between Superwoman, Reactron and Supergirl. There’s been a great build and the story doesn’t feel like it’s worn out its welcome.

I found it a relief that they didn’t forget Kryptonians still aren’t allowed on Earth, something that puts a damper on Supergirl’s investigation of Superwoman’s identity. Gates also remembers his DC Comics history and brings in Lucy Lane for a bit of fun. I always like it when writers fit in past characters where it makes sense without resorting to creating entirely new ones. It just helps to establish a better sense of continuity within the universe.

Another fun reference came when Inspector Henderson comments on Supergirl’s midriff baring outfit, ridiculous even by comic book standards. Hopefully this will remain an ongoing joke. It also gave Kara an opportunity to tear out of the trench coat she’s made to wear over her uniform. Perfect comic book pulp.

The artwork was spot-on aside from a short fill-in by Talent Caldwell. Igle’s traditional line work doesn’t match up at all against Caldwell’s exaggerated lines and cartoon-like features. It takes you out of the book and never hits near the general quality of art expected in this title. Thankfully the fill-in job comes and goes in a wink, before Igle comes back to finish off the story.

I also can’t help but mention another fantastic cover by Middleton, who’s been drawing them since issue #34. While Reactron isn’t the main focus of this issue I’m glad to finally see this B-list villain get his own cover.

This story continues to intrigue and remains of one DC’s more interesting mysteries, more so even for me than who the next Batman will be and while I doubt the payoff will be that rewarding the ride is everything I could hope for.
B