WARNING: Contains Potential Spoilers for SUPERMAN #24!
Superman’s most legendary vulnerability has always been Kryptonite, but a surprising new adversary has emerged: capitalism. This unexpected challenge has the potential to undermine everything the Man of Steel represents, particularly in light of the emergence of SUPER-LEX, who is gaining strength from the very forces that threaten Superman’s ideals.
The latest issue, Superman #24, crafted by Joshua Williamson and featuring stunning art from Eddy Barrows, Eber Ferreira, and Alejandro Sánchez, presents a pivotal narrative that fans won’t want to miss. This installment is loaded with dramatic developments that put Superman in jeopardy.
The plot dives deep into themes of betrayal within the Supercorp family, kicking off with Lex Luthor’s arrest—a move prompted by Superman’s tip-off regarding the resurrection of Luthor’s former memories. While this act may seem like a betrayal by Clark, the real shock comes from Mercy Graves, who reveals that she has manipulated Superman’s status to serve capitalist interests.
The Unforeseen Power of Capitalism
Superman becomes an unwitting instrument of capitalism, as Mercy exploits his image and reputation to market weapons. This betrayal gradually evolves through Superman #24, which starts with hints that could easily be mistaken for altruistic intentions. Following Luthor’s arrest, Mercy and Lena announce that they have been developing new technology for Superman to aid in his defense of Metropolis. What they unveil, however, is a shocking array of weaponry adorned with the Superman logo, including smart drones and thermoskeletons, suggesting aggressive potential as well as defense.
Superman, understandably astonished, realizes that he had no prior knowledge of Supercorp’s clandestine weapons initiative. The situation escalates dramatically when Mercy expresses her desire to commercialize the technology, leading to Superman’s incredulous response: “Excuse me. You’re saying you want to use technology you’ve created because of me and sell it?” Mercy counters, acknowledging the necessity of profit for the welfare of the families dependent on Supercorp.
This manipulation highlights how Mercy’s true motivations align with capitalist interests, rather than the protection of Superman and the people. Superman’s image is weaponized without his consent—a staggering betrayal that sets the stage for a broader conflict.
Faced with an Iron Man-esque Predicament
Just as Superman absorbs this shocking news, they are interrupted by Mister Terrific, who enlists Superman’s help to tackle a crisis in Markovia. Choosing to prioritize the pressing issues with Mercy, Lois volunteers to accompany Mister Terrific while Clark remains to confront the unfolding revelations. Meanwhile, Superwoman prepares for her inaugural Justice League mission against invading aliens testing catastrophic weapons.
The narrative strongly parallels the storyline from Iron Man (2008), where Stark confronts the misuse of his weapons by terrorists. In a similar vein, Clark discovers that Supercorp’s resources are being misappropriated for corporate gain, leaving him to grapple with the implications.
The Fraying Supercorp Dynamics
As tensions mount, Lois delivers the Super-Gun to Superman, prompting a confrontation with Mercy. By this time, Superman’s patience has worn thin, and he challenges Mercy to justify her actions. Her dismissive attitude—claiming ignorance about the Super-Gun’s deployment—additionally fuels his frustrations. She chillingly states, “With the proper branding, you can sell anything.” This is the breaking point for Superman, who ultimately fires her, only for Mercy to reveal her hidden advantage—her position in the company supersedes his authority.
In turn, she reveals her Kryptonite-laced technology powered by a device reminiscent of Iron Man’s Arc Reactor, incapacitating Lois and Clark. Mercy’s full agenda is brought to light as she mentions her aspiration to revive Luthor’s grand plan to manipulate Superman and grow his empire. Lena is left in disbelief, stating that Lex has abandoned that vision since losing his memories. However, Mercy has a dangerous solution in mind.
Introducing SUPER-LEX: A New Menace
Addressing Lena’s concerns, Mercy acknowledges the transformed Lex Luthor, incapable of undertaking her plans, and she proceeds to reveal a hidden chamber. She initiates a sequence that unveils a new Lex Luthor—one with glowing red eyes, suspended in a suit inspired by Superman’s recovery attire after his battle with Doomsday. This revelation signifies the birth of a formidable new adversary—Super-Lex.
SUPERMAN #24 is now available from DC Comics! Don’t miss out on this thrilling chapter that challenges the essence of heroism against the corporate landscape.