Superman/Batman #1 By Koppy McFad Aug 21, 2003 - 9:48:00 AM

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DC COMICS
WRITER: Jeph Loeb
PENCILS/INKS/COVER: Ed McGuinness and Dexter Vines

Superman/Batman is revamp of the old World's Finest concept, which teamed superheroes together to stop a common enemy. The heroes that this series has chosen to pair are given away in the title. These two characters are THE primary icons in the DCU; both have loyal fan bases, who (if the message boards are truly indicative of them) often feel compelled to pit one against the other to determine who is superior. Therefore, a series focused on the cooperation of the two could potentially be either a huge success or a colossal failure. The secret to success lies in the hands of the creative team—Jeph Loeb and Ed McGuinness, whose reputations precede them. With fate of the series resting in their hands, Jeph and Ed spin a tale that engages the reader from the very beginning.

This book is VERY accessible to people unfamiliar with these characters (seriously, how many people in the world have NEVER heard or seen ANYTHING about Batman or Superman?) The book begins with a brief origin of both characters, and the juxtaposition between the two is evident from the first two panels. The reader is invited into the worlds of these characters, and as he or she traces their separate origins, the question inevitably comes: how can two heroes who are so different ever work together to accomplish a common goal? That is precisely the question that the creative team wants readers to ask, because the remaining 17 pages of Superman/Batman #1 are dedicated to beginning the series that will attempt to answer that question. An old villain is reintroduced, one that long-time readers will recognize and appreciate, but who will also be interesting for new readers. The teamwork between Batman and Superman is explored from both heroes' individual perspectives as they try to discover what the villain hopes to accomplish and attempt to derail his attempts. The book ends with a couple of surprises, not least of which is a guest star that appears on the last page.

Jeph Loeb's strengths as a writer are clearly evidenced in this book. From page one, Loeb illustrates his familiarity with each of the characters and writes them as if he were writing the biography of old friends. He makes clear from the beginning that these two heroes are vastly different from one another: one is the paragon of hope and justice, while the other is born out of the worst society has to offer. Despite the differences in their personalities and motivations, Loeb also does a wonderful job of exploring the dynamic that is their relationship. There is a reason why comic fans want to see these two in a book together, and Loeb nails the presentation of these characters in such a way that demonstrates the reason for this desire. The interaction between Batman and Superman is well done, though at times Batman seems just a shade out of character. Loeb's best work on this book is found in the "inner dialogue" of the characters—that which reveals the private thoughts and reasoning of Batman and Superman. It is here where Jeph's understanding of the characters shines the brightest. Characterization has always been one of Jeph's strong points and this book is no exception. If there is something that readers will find fault with, it is Jeph's approach to Superman's origin, which resembles that presented in Superman: Birthright. It is presented impressively, however, so no matter how one feels about this issue, readers should be able to enjoy Loeb's perspective.

Ed McGuiness carries the dialogue that Loeb has written and converts it wonderfully into pictures. The origin stories are presented with the perfect amount of light (Superman) and dark (Batman), so that even if words were not given, a reader would be able to discern where one origin ends and the other begins. Superman is drawn as confident and hopeful, Batman as dark and brooding. Having seen none of McGuinness's work prior to Superman/Batman, I was unsure and a little skeptical about him as the artist for this series. No more. McGuinness does a masterful job in the artistic presentation of these characters (including a wonderful two-page splash that stands out as one of the issue's strongest points). I find myself salivating for more of this book, which I have to wait another month for. Dexter Vines and Dave Stewart combine their talents to provide a very colorful (and appropriate) artistic experience. The result is a book that is written, drawn, inked, and colored by some of the best in the business. Believe me, it shows.

This series has real potential. The combination of Loeb's writing and McGuinness's pencils is a lethal one, and could produce real fruit for DC. The key to this book, however, is characterization—Superman and Batman are established favorites who have been analyzed again and again. Placing them together creates a whole different dynamic between the two, and Loeb will have to explore that again and again from different perspectives in order to make this work. Judging from this issue, I think he's up to the challenge. Another key to the success of this book is that the creative team must make sure that this always remains, first and foremost, a super-hero book. With characters like these, it can be nothing less. Lots of character, lots of super-heroics, and lots of fun: a recipe for success that I think is already in the making. Something sure smells good…

Rating: A+

Chad Whitley

DC COMICS
WRITER: Jeph Loeb
ARTISTS: Ed McGuinnes and Dexter Vines

This comic comes with a lot of gimmickry, from two variant covers to the use of the wordless, combined logos of Superman and Batman as the title. As to why they simply didn't call the comic "World's Finest"-- well, the title of the first story is "World's Finest," as a nod to the fanboys.

Despite the gimmickry, the first issue is surprisingly good. It starts with a montage comparing the origins of Supes and Bats, showing their similarities-- how they were both orphaned, their dedication to their jobs-- and their contrasts, such as their conflicting world views. It gives a good summary of who the characters are, even to those of us who have known them for years.

This is followed with a battle with Metallo in a Gotham graveyard. Both in art and writing, this is one of the best depictions of Metallo in recent years. Instead of the Super-punching bag most of us are familiar with, Metallo comes off as a formidable and frightening figure who is still trying to pass for human even while his actions and appearance give evidence of his inhumanity.

Suffice to say, Metallo takes out Superman in a manner that fanboys have been suggesting for years. At the same time, there are brewing subplots like new questions as to the identity of the murder of Batman's parents and a giant kryptonite meteor that is hurtling towards Earth, much to Luthor's interest.

Perhaps it is because this comic is so straightforward and unassuming that it so entertaining. For once Loeb doesn't weigh his story down with issues of Batman's guilt, Superman's sense of duty, the horror of war, etc. It is just a rousing tale of heroes fighting evil. Perhaps the tone will change as this series continues but for now, it is off to good start.

One complaint: I assume this issue was completed before "Terminator 3" came out but did we really need to see another killer cyborg carrying a coffin through a cemetery?

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