Lex Luthor: Diabolical Genius
Writer: Christof Bogacs
Artist: Valerio Chiola
Letterer: Saida Temofonte
Publisher: DC
Publication Date: July 7, 2026
When Lionel Luthor is imprisoned by Superman, a young Lex Luthor—like, barely a teenager young—swears vengeance on behalf of the Luthor name. He spends weeks plotting in his secret lab, avoiding his nosy little sister, Lena, and their pseudo guardian Slade Wilson, until it’s time to strike. First, he sends Slade to kidnap Lois Lane, an enterprising young intern for The Daily Planet Online Edition. Then, he waits.
But it isn’t Superman who arrives at Luthorcorp to rescue Lois. It’s Batman. And while Lex may be young, he isn’t a fool. What ensues is an action-packed game of cat and mouse showing beloved DC characters in an all new light, with a focus on how people aren’t tools and relationships need nurturing. Yes, really.
Lex Luthor: Diabolical Genius offers a fresh perspective on Lex and Lena Luthor, with bonus Slade Wilson playing the role of Ultimate Girl Dad. (Slade is very good. Very, very good.)
Writer Christof Bogacs presents a genuinely humorous conceit, then follows through with fast-paced dialogue and moments of sweetness that feel surprisingly natural. There are jokes galore, but also scenes in which the characters connect so genuinely it’s almost possible to forget their main universe counterparts. Almost.
Bogacs’s excellent writing pairs perfectly with Valerio Chiola’s cartoony illustration style, lending a nostalgic heir to the story that feels appropriate for the plot. Maybe it’s seeing the Luthor kids with red hair (and Lena, specifically, in camo pants and a dark, long-sleeved shirt), but the Disney animated series Kim Possible comes to mind both in terms of visuals and story arc (which, from this reviewer, is a very high compliment indeed). The colors are bold, the lines strong, and character expressions deliver both emotion and story beats, establishing high stakes and urgent pacing from the jump.
Letterer Saida Temofonte also shines, with clean work pulling each page together into small masterpieces that combine to form one large one.
Lex Luthor: Diabolical Genius doesn’t treat its young characters or readers as less intelligent, less clever, or less interesting than the adults, which is its key to success. Young readers who are interested in villain origin stories or who want to know more about the characters behind the big personalities that are often set in stone in legacy universes will love it, especially if they appreciate well-timed action.
This graphic novel delights with its comedy and its fight choreography, but doesn’t skip the family drama or connection points that make the characters worth caring about. Science, feminism, and determination underscore otherwise goofy hijinks, creating a truly human story in a fully absurdist world.
Verdict: Buy/Borrow
