In issue two of Superman: the Kryptonite Spectrum, we are introduced to the effects of cobalt kryptonite. Superman had discovered four new variations of kryptonite in the first issue and decided he would find out what they did to him by trying them directly. For a full run down from issue 1, plus to find out what purple kryptonite does, check out this article.
This four part series is put together by the incredible team from Ice Cream Man, written by W. Maxwell Prince, illustrated by Martin Morazzo, and coloured by Chris O’Halloran. W. Maxwell Prince’s unique storytelling has been prevalent so far, showcased this issue with punchlines read before the joke, courtesy of a non-linear narrative.
The team have been adding some interesting ideas too, to Superman lore, specifically with new types of kryptonite. Batman could only watch on helplessly as the cobalt kryptonite caused Superman to rather rapidly grow. Although Batman had been encouraging a safer approach to testing the kryptonites, its strange radiation penetrated the lead lined observation room.
Soon, Superman is busting through the roof of the Fortress of Solitude, far too massive to be contained by the structure. He has the idea of heading to Metropolis to demonstrate he is still the hero everyone knows and loves, despite his size, and not a target for the military.
Lex Luthor takes full advantage of the situation by confronting Superman and exposing him to red kryponite. Red kryptonite has historically had some very random effects on Kryptonians, from excessive hair growth to turning them into a dragon. Here Luthor want to experiment, seeing what it would do combined with cobalt kryptonite. The effect was a very angry Superman, unable lashing out at other heroes. A team of Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, and Atom Smasher is no match for him.
Thankfully, Batman is on hand to help restore the Man of Steel to his former, albeit impressive, but normal stature. Batman had hypothesised that the speckled kryptonite, which had a similar structure to cobalt kryptonite just inverted, would reverse the effects of cobalt kryptonite and return Superman to normal. He was correct. Mostly.
Lex Luthor had unfortunately added variable to Batman’s experiment, having sent the giant and incredibly radioactive Chemo to Metropolis. Superman his able to save the day, but the radiation from Chemo, plus that from the speckled kryptonite has a new, and unexpected effect on Superman. One to be explored next time.
Buy Superman: The Kryptonite Spectrum #1, second printing – Forbidden Planet UK (I earn a commission)
Key Comics Vault 
Leave a comment