Comic Review: Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen #1

Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen #1

DC Comics

Writer: Matt Fraction

Artists: Steve Lieber & Nathan Fairbairn

The Olsen family has a lot of history in Metropolis, almost as much as the Luthor’s. Yes, that Jimmy Olsen has a respected family. That goofy, bumbling Jimmy. Now, Matt Fraction, Steve Lieber, and Nathan Fairbairn are here to show off the Olsen family and the Super-pal himself. 

Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen is a ridiculously fun love-letter to a much simpler age of comic books. Matt Fraction plays with various tropes and gags that used to be present in the Silver Age but doesn’t rely on them for the book’s charm. Instead, the various quirks bring a wonderful amount of appeal without being the central focus of the book. The opening pages act as a fun montage of highs and lows, giving the reader short but humorous stories that seem self-contained, but wind up setting up a bigger story. I loved seeing the various gags and callbacks actually contribute to the plot. Fraction has always been known for his smart and witty writing, and all of this comes together to bring life to Jimmy Olsen’s story.

This issue is full of charm and wit, and it looks like a much more serious story isn’t too far off in the horizon. The last few pages, while still humorous, establish a new, dark setting for the colorful character. The juxtaposition between the first half and second half of the issue allows for the book to stay fresh all the way through. Those who are looking for a serious book won’t find much to appreciate in this issue, but I wouldn’t be surprised if there was more for the crowd later on. 

Steve Lieber is a fantastic choice for this book, perfectly complementing both Fraction’s writing and the character himself. Lieber’s light art style has always been wonderful for comedy. Every joke and beat is excellently drawn, giving every gag maximum impact. The lines are bold and the faces are expressive, adding an animated feeling to everything. When the tone needs to change, Lieber manages to show off his ability to draw gritty, creepy environments. 

Nathan Fairbairn continues to show why he is one of the best in the business when it comes to bringing life to sequential art. While the book is light throughout, Fairbarn is able to add extra layers to every panel, adding tension, drama, or just extra fun to them.

Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen is a fun read, setting up for what is likely going to be a compelling series. The issue doesn’t actually add too much to Jimmy, but he is written so well that it just doesn’t matter. The writing and art pull from just the best parts of the Silver Age, and I can’t wait to see where this creative team goes.

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