Milestone Media’s Icon and DC Comics’ Superman, while sharing some similarities as iconic superheroes, also have notable differences that set them apart. Here are ten ways in which Icon differs from Superman:
- Origins: Icon’s origin story involves an alien spaceship crashing on Earth during the 19th century, while Superman’s origin revolves around his escape from the dying planet of Krypton as an infant.
- Cultural Background: Icon, known as Augustus Freeman IV in his civilian identity, is an African-American superhero who grapples with the complexities of racial identity and history. Superman, on the other hand, is depicted as a Caucasian character with no specific racial or ethnic identity.
- Power Source: Icon’s powers come from the alien “biomolecular grafted super suit” he discovered aboard the crashed spaceship, while Superman’s abilities are a result of Earth’s yellow sun and its impact on his Kryptonian physiology.
- Experience and Age: Icon’s story spans centuries, as he ages much slower due to his alien physiology. Superman, on the other hand, arrived on Earth as an infant and has maintained a youthful appearance due to his superhuman abilities.
- Personalities and Values: Icon is often portrayed as a more stoic and reserved character, influenced by his experiences throughout history. Superman, in contrast, is depicted as more optimistic and idealistic, embodying the “truth, justice, and the American way” ethos.
- Approach to Crime fighting: Icon often takes a more nuanced and methodical approach to crime fighting, drawing from his legal background as a lawyer. Superman, with his superpowers and abilities, is more focused on physically protecting and serving humanity.
- Supporting Characters and Relationships: Icon’s supporting cast includes Rocket (Raquel Ervin), his teenage sidekick and eventual partner, as well as his relationship with other Milestone characters. Superman, on the other hand, has a rich supporting cast, including Lois Lane, Jimmy Olsen, and the Justice League.
- Social Commentary: Icon’s stories frequently tackle social issues and address topics such as racism, inequality, and societal challenges faced by marginalized communities. While Superman occasionally touches on social issues, his stories tend to focus more on traditional superhero adventures.
- Tone and Atmosphere: Icon’s stories often have a grittier and more grounded tone, reflecting the urban setting of Dakota City and exploring the complexities of race and identity. Superman’s stories often lean towards a brighter and more fantastical tone, showcasing his superpowers and his role as a symbol of hope.
- Publication Universe: Icon exists within the Milestone Universe, which emphasizes diverse characters and narratives that address social issues. Superman is a central figure in the DC Universe, which encompasses a wide range of superheroes and story lines.
These differences highlight the unique qualities and storytelling approaches of Icon and Superman, showcasing the diversity within the superhero genre and the ability of different characters to resonate with distinct audiences and perspectives.