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The Kryptonian Cybernet Issue 07
THE KRYPTONIAN CYBERNET - ISSUE #7 - NOVEMBER 1994
AN ELECTRONIC MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO THE FAMILY OF SUPERMAN CHARACTERS
All characters and locales are copyright and/or trademark DC Comics
CONTENTS
ÑÑÑÑ
Section 1: Superscripts: Notes from the Editor
Holiday scheduling, by Jeff Sykes
Just the FAQs
ÒWho are The Guardian, The Newsboy Legion, Project Cadmus,
and The New Gods?Ó, by David T Chappell
The Fleischer Cartoons
Episode #3, ÒBillion Dollar LimitedÓ,
by Neil Ottenstein
Super-Crosswords
Crossword #2, and answers to last monthÕs puzzle
Section 2: Reviews
The Triangle Titles
Action Comics #704, by Jose R Galan
Superman: The Man of Steel #39, by Anatole
Superman #95, by Jose R Galan
Adventures of Superman #518, by Art LaMarche
Action Comics #705, by Art LaMarche
Section 3: Reviews (cont)
Other Super-Titles
Superboy #10, by Victor Chan
Steel #10, by Shawn Aeria
Miniseries and Special Appearances
Guardians of Metropolis #2, by Art LaMarche
Metropolis S.C.U. #2, by Art LaMarche
Aquaman #3, by William J Nixon
Section 4: Looking Back
Post-Byrne
Adventures of Superman #467, by Mark Lamutt
Pre-Byrne
Superman #136, by Patrick M. Stout
Superman #399, by Ken McKee
The Super-Kids of Superman!
Part 2 of a 5-part review of silver age
stories, by Jon Knutson
Section 5: Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman
Up, Up, and Coming
A brief introduction, by Jeff Sykes
Church of Metropolis
Introduction and a review of the Intergang episode,
by new section coordinator Jennifer L Traver
Alien Notion
Exactly what does it mean that Superman
is not human? Ñ by Zoomway
And Who Disguised As...
Superman, romance, marriage, and other fantasies,
by J. D. Rummel
Section 6: Super Word Search
Letters
Coming Attractions
EDITORIAL STAFF:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
Jeffery D. Sykes, Editor-in-chief
Arthur E. LaMarche, Reviews
Shawn Aeria Mark Lamutt
Victor Chan Ken McKee
Pat Gonzales Jennifer L. Traver
Curtis Herink Joel W. Tscherne
Lee Keels
LEGAL DISCLAIMERS:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
Superman and all related characters, locations, and events are
copyright and trademark DC Comics. Use of the aforementioned is not
intended to challenge said ownership. We strongly suggest that each
reader look to the media sources mentioned within for further infor-
mation.
Opinions presented within this issue belong to the authors of
the articles which contain them. They should in no way be construed
as those of any other particular member of the editorial or contributing
staff, unless otherwise indicated.
This magazine should be distributed freely via e-mail. Should
you desire to share this publication with other on-line services, please
contact me at sykes@ms.uky.edu for permission. Feel free to advertise
subscription information on other on-line services which have internet
mail availability.
THE KRYPTONIAN CYBERNET is available by e-mail Ñ just send me a note
(sykes@ms.uky.edu) which includes the address to which you would like the
issues sent. Back issues are available via ftp Ñ see the resources section.
========================================================
SUPERSCRIPTS: Notes from the Editor
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ
I hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! After a lovely Turkey Day
dinner, I spent the majority of the weekend at the Mid-Ohio-Con in Columbus,
but more on that next issue.
The main focus of my column this month is the schedule for the holidays.
First, letÕs consider the December issue. Because of final exams, I wonÕt
be able to begin working on the new issue before December 16. However,
I have some remarks from the Mid-Ohio-Con, the new Previews information,
and an idea for KC year-end awards Ñ awards that I *will* pass on to the
DC staff. Also, these awards will be voted on by our readership, and one
random voter will be selected to receive a copy of Superman #1 autographed
by John Byrne! So, in order to allow most, if not all, of you to vote on
the awards, I am going to release KC #8 in two parts. The first part will
mail around this weekend Ñ around December 4th Ñ and will contain my info
from the con, the new Coming Attractions, the awards ballot, and the
resources section. The second part will mail after the 16th and will contain
our new reviews and articles.
If you donÕt get a chance to Òenter,Ó donÕt worry! I managed to pick up
several nice prizes which I will be awarding in several contests over the
course of the next year Ñ there will be at least four other nice prizes
to come!
As for the January issue, we have a two-fold problem. First up is school.
Sometime in early to mid-January, I have to take a Ph.D. preliminary exam, so
I will be spending most of my time over the break studying. Second, we have
a material problem. Though the comics will keep shipping, there will be only
one new episode of Lois and Clark in December (though we could pick up the
two we have missed in this issue Ñ see the L&C section), and our writers and
reviewers may not be able to get us their work in the same timeframe. I see
two options. First, we can print what would be a ÒthinnerÓ version in January,
but some of my staff would definitely have to give me a lot of help. Second,
we can skip January and print a *huge* issue in February. IÕll talk more
with the rest of the staff and weÕll let you know the decision in the next
issue!
Finally, the resources section is going AWOL this month. I havenÕt had the
time to make a proper update.
Oh! One last thing. In the interest of time (since I was lazy this month),
I did all of the editing myself this issue. So any mistakes are solely my
fault
Enjoy the new issue!
Jeff Sykes
sykes@ms.uky.edu
========================================================
JUST THE FAQs
More Details about Frequently-Asked Questions about the Man of Steel
by David T. Chappell
Recently, a number of new Superman-related comics have appeared on the
market. In the last issue of the KRYPTONIAN CYBERNET, my column described
the past and present regular Superman series. In addition to the titles
described therein, there are rumors from DC of a new quarterly Superman
comic, presumably in the vein of the late JUSTICE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL
QUARTERLY and GREEN LANTERN CORPS QUARTERLY.
For more information on Superman and related characters, see my
Superman FAQ. Following the recent Fall of Metropolis and Crisis in Time, I
have revised the FAQ to Version 2.00 status. The latest Frequently-Asked
Question list is available via anonymous ftp at ftp.dhhalden.no.
As promised, this issue I delve into the details of the new GUARDIANS OF
METROPOLIS mini-series. Although the many characters and events of the story
have been introduced over the years, a newcomer could get lost in the myriad
of typically-background characters who dominate the scene. Next issue, IÕll
cover the same subject for the current METROPOLIS S. C. U. series, but now
itÕs time to ask the question
ÒWHO ARE THE GUARDIAN, THE NEWSBOY LEGION, PROJECT CADMUS, & THE NEW GODS?Ó
or
ÒJUST WHO ARE THESE GUARDIANS OF METROPOLIS?Ó
THE GUARDIANS OF METROPOLIS contains a large number of convoluted plot lines
for a mini-series. Since it relies heavily on background from previous
Superman comics, new readers may be confused by the myriad of characters.
Most of these are not new characters, but old friends who normally act as
background characters in the Superman titles.
THE MEN BEHIND THE STORIES
Karl Kesel is the writer of this new Super-family title. Mr. Kesel has been
part of the Super-team since nearly the beginning of the modern era of
Superman comics. He began inking SUPERMAN back in 1987. Kesel later joined
the writing staff and worked on ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN and SUPERBOY.
Despite Karl KeselÕs experience, the origin of the characters he uses goes
back even farther.
Jack Kirby was the father of the main characters of the series. Simon
and Kirby created the Guardian and wrote his first stories back in the
1940s. Kirby also created Project Cadmus and its cast of characters.
Furthermore, Jack Kirby created the New Gods, several of which appear as
antagonists in THE GUARDIANS OF METROPOLIS series. Subsequent artists,
including Dwyer and Manley on GUARDIANS, have imitated KirbyÕs drawing style
whenever drawing the New Gods. The DC team recognizes the late Mr. KirbyÕs
contributions by listing Òthe KingÓ among the credits for the mini-series.
THE NEW GODS
Jack Kirby created a new cast of characters called the ÒNew GodsÓ in the early
1970s. THE NEW GODS #1 and THE FOREVER PEOPLE #1 are both cover-dated
February-March 1971. These New Gods are a race of super-human beings that are
the virtual descendants of the Olympian and Norse (ÒoldÓ) gods. While not
immortal, each of the New Gods can be resurrected into a new body if the old
is destroyed. Highfather leads the ÒgoodÓ New Gods from the paradise planet
New Genesis, and Darkseid rules the ÒevilÓ New Gods on the hellish world of
Apokolips. Both worlds are in an alternate dimension accessible only via Boom
Tubes and similar methods.
Darkseid is thoroughly evil and seeks conquest and the Anti-Life
Equation. Several of his subordinates appear as evil-doers in THE GUARDIANS
OF METROPOLIS. Granny Goodness is in charge of the nefarious crew in
GUARDIANS, with Virman, Lashina, Gilotina, and several soldiers from Apokolips
under her command.
Granny Goodness is the only one of DarkseidÕs Elite who does not fear the
master of Apokolips. She indoctrinates all youngsters on Apokolips to become
docile servants who fear their overlords. During the Legends story line in
1987, Superman wound up on Apokolips with a loss of memory. Granny Goodness
convinced the Man of Steel that he was the son of Darkseid, but Superman
eventually led the Hunger Dogs of Apokolips in a revolt against their
oppressive masters. GrannyÕs fiendish mastery of the orphanage in GUARDIANS
is perfectly in character for her as she tortures the youngsters and ships
them to her homeworld.
Dr. Virman Vundabar is another member of DarkseidÕs Elite. He fancies
himself as a military genius, and he is a fan of 19th century Germany. Virman
lusts for power and ranks among the more annoying characters in this nasty
group.
Lashina and Gilotina are two of the Female Furies, a part of DarkseidÕs
Special Powers Force. They are strong warriors that train under Granny
Goodness. Each of the Furies has unique skills and powers, though all are
ruthless and sadistic.
THE GUARDIAN & NEWSBOY LEGION
The oldest characters (aside from Superman in his cameo) in the series are
the Guardian and the Newsboy Legion. Both first appeared in STAR-SPANGLED
COMICS #7 in 1942. Their stories ran through issue #64 of that series, and
they have had other appearances since. These original stories are still
considered part of modern continuity. SECRET ORIGINS #49 presents the
latest complete origin of the group and others from Project Cadmus (see
below).
Jim Harper was a cop who worked in MetropolisÕ Suicide Slum. When
fighting a gang one night, Harper grabbed a protective helmet and shield to
fight his attackers. He then adopted a costume and became the super-hero
crime fighter known as the Guardian. Though he has no super-powers, Jim
Harper has police training and is an experienced fighter. His shield is
made of a special alloy and is virtually indestructible.
The day after his first costumed fight, Officer Harper caught four
newsboys in the act of thievery. Having had a tough young life himself,
Harper sympathized with the boys. When the judge intended to sentence them
to a juvenile institution, the policeman offered to be responsible for the
four youngsters. Harper eventually became boysÕ legal guardian, and he
often helped the Newsboy Legion avoid trouble.
Jim Harper (the Guardian) policeman and super-hero
Thomas ÒTommyÓ Tompkins leader of the Newsboy Legion
Patrick ÒScrapperÓ MacGuire fighter and tough guy
John ÒGabbyÓ Gabrielli overly talkative
Anthony ÒBig WordsÓ Rodrigues smart, overuses big words in speech
PROJECT CADMUS
The Cadmus Project is a semi-secret organization that studies genetic
engineering. The worldÕs most advanced genetics laboratory lies in an
underground city outside of Metropolis. The three original founders were
Doctors Reginald Augustine, Dabney Donovan, and Thomas Tompkins. Dr.
Tompkins recruited his childhood friends to found the Project and become
department heads. Patrick had become an engineer, John was a businessman,
and Anthony was a physicist.
The primary research at Cadmus has resulted in various clones and new
life forms. The current Guardian, for example, is a clone of Jim HarperÕs
first body but contains his original mind. Other products of work at Cadmus
include the D. N. Aliens, a group of genetically advanced beings. Many of
the failed experiments and outcasts from Cadmus made their way in secret to
live in the caves under Metropolis where they called themselves
Underworlders.
SUPERMAN ANNUAL #2 (1988) introduced the Cadmus Project to modern
Superman continuity. Sleez, one of the monstrous servants from Apokolips,
entered the Project and forced the leaders to clone young versions of
themselves. Superman and the Guardian defeated Sleez, and the cloned Jim
Harper now takes care of the second generation of the Newsboy Legion. This
new group of kid troublemakers includes all four original Newsboys plus
ÒFlip,Ó a clone of the distinguished biochemist Dr. Walter Johnson.
Over the years, Superman has had several encounters with the Guardian
and Cadmus. Kal-El respects and befriends Jim Harper and has fought
alongside him against criminals. SupermanÕs knowledge of CadmusÕ
questionable experiments, however, gives him mixed feelings towards the
Project, especially Director Westfield. The Guardian now serves as chief of
security for Cadmus; he has a platoon of soldiers and an advanced security
system to help protect the complex. The Newsboy Legion have continued to
get in trouble in their multiple escapes from Cadmus.
After SupermanÕs death, Project Cadmus stole the Man of SteelÕs body
from the grave in an attempt to clone him. They were unable to get a good
sample of his DNA due to his invulnerable body. Cadmus did, however,
succeed in making Superboy. They intended to use memory implants to control
the clone, but the Newsboy Legion helped the Boy of Steel escape to freedom.
The Project is located in the hills outside of Metropolis. For years,
its existence was kept secret from the general populace. Superboy publicly
denounced Project Cadmus on television, however, and the Project tried to
project a positive image. Cadmus was in the forefront in the recent Battle
for Metropolis. A clone disease led to fighting between the Underworlders,
the Project, and LexCorp. Team Luthor destroyed Cadmus as best the public
knows; however, the Project survives in secret.
Historical Note: In Greek mythology, Cadmus was a Phoenician prince
who planted dragonÕs teeth to grow soldiers. DC acknowledged the
mythological source in GUARDIANS #1 when the Guardian radioed the Project
via the call sign ÒThe DragonÕs Teeth.Ó
CAST OF CHARACTERS
The Loch Trevor Monster kicked off the series on the first page of THE
GUARDIANS OF METROPOLIS #1. The monster is not some new creation from
Cadmus but an old character brought back to the forefront. Several years
ago, Superman encountered and fought the creature in Loch Trevor in
Scotland. At the conclusion of the story, the beast was brought to the
Cadmus Project, but it had not appeared in the comics for some time.
Angry Charlie is another minor character with a big role in GUARDIANS.
For several years, Gabby has told his friends about the pink furniture-
eating monster, but no one else has seen Charlie. Thus, the other Newsboys
and adults at Cadmus think that Charlie is a construct of GabbyÕs
imagination. Comics readers know better since they have seen the real
Charlie eating chairs and saying ÒGroik.Ó
Dabney Donovan was the mastermind behind several ethically questionable
experiments at Cadmus. While some employees have high morals, Donovan has
low standards. Dr. Donovan eventually who faked his death by using a dead
clone of himself, and he left the Project. Donovan went on to create Lex
LuthorÕs second body, and he remained in hiding for years as his hatred of
the Cadmus team grew. His actions against the Cadmus leaders in GUARDIANS
not only reveals his intense animosity towards them but also shows his
insanity.
Dubbilex is the most prevalent of the D. N. Aliens. He originally
helped watch over the second generation of Newsboys, and his ESP powers
greatly aided him in keeping track of the kids. More recently, Dubbilex has
taken a similar baby-sitting job in overseeing Superboy. Though his role in
THE GUARDIANS OF METROPOLIS is minor, Dubbilex is a major Cadmus character.
Meanwhile, the Metropolis police are playing a small role in the
series. Maggie Sawyer and her Special Crimes Unit tackle all the super-
powered problems in Metropolis, so it was appropriate to send them against
the New Gods at the B. O. Goodley orphanage. Details on the S. C. U. will
wait till next monthÕs column when I discuss the background to the
METROPOLIS S. C. U. mini-series.
========================================================
THE FLEISCHER CARTOONS:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ
by Neil A. Ottenstein
Episode 3: ÒBillion Dollar LimitedÓ
Released: 1-9-42
Running Time: 8:35 minutes
Faster than a speeding bullet
More powerful than a locomotive
Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound
The cartoon starts off with a Daily Planet headline announcing ÒBillion
Dollars in Gold Enroute to Mint.Ó We see guards loading the gold on the
train. Lois boards the train. Clark would like to go along, but he has
another story to cover. We see gangsters in a red car, which armors
itself and almost runs over Clark.
The car follow the path of the train. Running along side it at one
point two of the gangsters jump from the car to the train. They unhook
the train, leaving most of the guards behind. They move up to the
engine and throw the conductor off the train. As a result of the fight
with the remaining guards, Lois has to take control of the train on her
own. She is trying to control the train, when she is fired upon from
the car. She picks up a fallen machine gun and fires back.
The train continues on out of control, running through the next station
without pausing. We soon see ÒBillion Dollar Limited running wildÓ
appear on teletype. Clark transforms himself into Superman to take care
of the situation.
The gangsters adjust the track so the train would go crashing into
explosives, but Superman uproots and reroutes the track just in the nick
of time. Next the gangsters blow up a bridge. Superman saves the train
after it has fallen down. The gangsters then throw a bomb in the
engine. Superman pulls out Lois just before it blows up.
The remaining train begins to reverse. Superman pulls it back. The
gangsters throw tear gas at Superman. He loses a step or two, but
perseveres through the gas and as they fire bullets at him. He is able
to pull the train all the way to the Government Mint.
The cartoon ends with a new Daily Planet headline and a few words
between Lois and Clark.
This cartoon is practically pure action as the train is overtaken by
each of the actions of the gangsters. There is hardly any dialogue at
all and the viewer must watch carefully to see all that does go on. It
definitely holds up to multiple viewings. ClarkÕs transformation into
Superman is seen once again in the shadows which never ceases to impress
me. One of the headlines in the final Daily Planet includes the line
Òafter bringing in gangsters, Superman disappears Ñ public mystified.Ó
A similar headline has appeared in the previous cartoons. This
reinforces that Superman is very much a Òmystery manÓ and quite new on
the scene. LoisÕ characterization is once again quite capable as she
does as much as any normal human being could do in the situation.
The two Fleischer Superman cartoon volumes are available for $19.95 each
directly from Bosko Video or from anyone who carries high quality
animation.
A catalog is available from Bosko Video
3802 East Cudahy Ave.
Cudahy WI 53110-1234
========================================================
SUPER-CROSSWORD #1 ANSWERS
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ
|J|O|R|E|L| |J|O|K|E|R| |
|I| | | |A|L|O|H|A| |E| |
|M| |J|O|N| |H| |R| |D|C|
|M| |B|R|A|I|N|I|A|C| | |
|Y| |O| | | | | | |L|E|X|
|O| | | | | | | | |A| |R|
|L|O|I|S| | | |M|A|R|T|A|
|S| | |C| | |M|O|N|K|E|Y|
|E| | |U| |W| |R| | |R| |
|N|E|W| |W|H|I|T|E| |R| |
| | |A| | |I| | | | |A| |
| |K|R|Y|P|T|O|N|I|A|N| |
SUPER-CROSSWORD #2
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By Jon Knutson (jonknutson@aol.com)
For best results, print this out in a monospaced typeface.
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|1 |2 |3 |4 |XXX|5 |6 |7 |8 |9 |10 | |
| | | | |XXX| | | | | | | |
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|11 | | | |XXX|12 | | | | | |XXX|
| | | | |XXX| | | | | | |XXX|
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|13 | | | |14 | |XXX| |XXX|XXX| |XXX|
| | | | | | |XXX| |XXX|XXX| |XXX|
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| |XXX|15 | | | | | |16 | | | |
| |XXX| | | | | | | | | | |
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|17 | | | |XXX| |XXX|XXX| |XXX| |XXX|
| | | | |XXX| |XXX|XXX| |XXX| |XXX|
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| |XXX|XXX|XXX|18 |XXX|19 |XXX| |XXX|XXX|XXX|
| |XXX|XXX|XXX| |XXX| |XXX| |XXX|XXX|XXX|
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|20 |21 |22 | | |23 | |24 | | |XXX|XXX|
| | | | | | | | | | |XXX|XXX|
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|25 | | |XXX|26 | | | | |XXX|XXX|27 |
| | | |XXX| | | | | |XXX|XXX| |
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
|XXX|28 | |29 | |XXX| |XXX|XXX|30 | | |
|XXX| | | | |XXX| |XXX|XXX| | | |
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|XXX|31 | | |XXX|32 | |33 |34 | |XXX| |
|XXX| | | |XXX| | | | | |XXX| |
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|35 | | |XXX|36 | | | | | | | |
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|XXX|XXX|XXX|37 | | | | | |XXX|XXX| |
|XXX|XXX|XXX| | | | | | |XXX|XXX| |
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ACROSS: 3. _______ of the Supermen
1. Jor-ElÕs better half 4. Not a Liability
2. Secret _______ 5. Jimmy
11. TV Episode: _____ of Metropolis 6. Regarding (abbr.)
12. Lori LemarisÕ Sister 7. Kent NelsonÕs Wife
13. Annoying Sounds 8. Not Stop
15. Phantom Zone Villain 9. One of SupermanÕs Visions (abbr.)
17. Lara, to Kara 10. Sub-Mariner
20. Explosive Villain 16. Planet Where Lex is a Hero
25. Plastic Man: ____ OÕBrian 18. Original Price of Action #1
26. Someone Under 21 19. Fred, for Example
28. Location 21. _____-Lar, Supergirl Double
30. Mr. Schwartz, for Short 22. Epic Poem
31. On the Run 23. What Pythonic Knights Say
32. Merman Boyfriend of Kara 24. Preposition
35. Lightning _____ 27. Fastest Man Alive
36. Arctic Building 29. What You Might See Instead of (R)
37. 50Õs TV Olsen 30. Average ____
32. KalÕs Dad
DOWN: 33. Street (abbr.)
1. KaraÕs Earth Name 34. Repeat Without Vowels
2. Shakespearean Title Word
========================================================
End of Section 1
========================================================
REVIEWS
ÑÑÑ-
THE ÒTRIANGLEÓ TITLES:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
44. ACTION COMICS #704, ÒEradication DayÓ
Writer: David Michelinie
Pencils: Jackson Guice
Inker: Denis Rodier
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
Jose R. Galan: 3 Shields
Shawn Aeria: 3 Shields Ñ I donÕt know much about the Outsiders.
They didnÕt give any reason to start picking it up.
Arthur LaMarche: 2 Shields Ñ No strong points, Superman is loosing it.
Ken McKee: 5 Shields Ñ Good story and great art. IÕve been
fascinated by the Eradicator ever since he was just
a little satellite.
William Nixon: 2.5 Shields Ñ Eradicator slugfest but a great final
page with Supes flying back to Metropolis
Patrick M. Stout: 2 Shields Ñ 13 pages of fight scene and only 4 for
characterization; I liked Perry and LoisÕ scene
on page 6, though.
Anatole Wilson: 1 Shield Ñ The continuing adventures of Super-Out-of-
Character-Man. Yik.
Superman, in order to find out whoÕs behind the dead body in the tomb, goes
after the Eradicator.
He finds him and the rest of the Outsiders ( well, a part of them ): Looker,
Halo, Faust and Wylde, in an abandoned base that was once used to study to
study extraterrestrials. Superman is really nervous, almost breaking down,
and instead of words he uses fist to gar(d)ner (sorry, couldnÕt resist *ART*)
the information he seeks. The Eradicator is not a victim, but an opponent not
easily defeated. When Superman advance in battle, he tells the Eradicator
his real purpose.
The Eradicator answers he has nothing to do with the dead body Ñthat is not
his way. The Outsiders decide to help their leader and attack Superman.
Satisfied, Superman flies to Metropolis. To meet a man he never thought of
before, the master of this scheme: Lex Luthor. He could be the answer.
It started from scratch. The first issue written by Michelinie was really
bad. The story and the art were weak from the always, till then, good team
of Guice and Rodier. Now it is at good level, and improving with every page.
The plot is clear, the story is readable, and the comic is fun. In one
thought, no masterpieces here for the moment, but better stuff than a lot of
those ÒhotÓ things all around.
I have read a lot of criticism against GuiceÕs new style. I disagree.
Although the first experiments were poor, but now is pretty consistent and
good. More cartoon-ish, less detailed, but still the best Lois Lane you can
dream of.
My only complaints go against the Superman characterization. He is now more
violent, yes, I can stand this. He seems to be a big muscles jerk, and I
donÕt like this at all. I know Batman is the detective, but Superman always
exhibited a nifty intelligence and a good style, till now. I think this is
the most important ÒchangeÓ in SupermanÕs career. Forget the pre-crisis or
post-crisis minor-to-nothing variations. This is the big thing, if it goes on
like this.
And donÕt misunderstand me. I mean, it was fun, as I said, it is only that I
prefer the non-violence slogans.
Jose R. Galan
========================================================
45. SUPERMAN: THE MAN OF STEEL #39, ÒLife or DeathÓ
Writer: Louise Simonson
Artists: Jon Bogdanove & Dennis Janke
$1.50 US/$2.10 Can/70p UK
RATINGS:
Anatole: 4.5 Shields
Shawn Aeria: 2.5 Shields Ñ Not enough ÒDead Again,Ó too much Keith.
Jose R Galan: 3 Shields Ñ Good story about Superman, a boy, and his
dying mother.
Arthur LaMarche: 5 Shields Ñ Nice social commentary, I would like to
see more
Ken McKee: 5 Shields Ñ Having Perry White and his wife wanting to
adopt Keith brought a tear to my eye. Great story.
Loved the way the cover had a Batman look to it.
William Nixon: 4 Shields Ñ Luthor only features on the 2nd to last page
and the issue was really about Keith, his mom, and the
Whites. Nice to see the titles carry on a strong
tradition of tackling social issues. Good writing by
Louise Simonson.
Patrick M. Stout: 4 Shields Ñ Great cover and a fast-moving story; a sad but
quick resolution to the fate of KeithÕs mother, and two
pages of great dialogue between Perry and Alice White
(pages 9 and 15).
ItÕs a strange paradox that I can berate the last issue of MOS for spending
too much time on the supporting characters, and compliment this issue for
doing the same thing. Though the ÒDead AgainÓ story arc is the motivational
fulcrum for most of the events in this issue, this is undeniably KeithÕs
story; it is a poignant story that touches upon many issues of today,
including AIDS, oil spills, and the Haitian refugee crisis.
Keith, as regular MOS followers know, was separated from his mother before
Lex Luthor trashed Metropolis, and has had some pretty tough times as heÕs
bounced from one bad situation to another. All this time, though, heÕs never
given up his faith in two people; Superman and his mother. (and his cat
*ART*)
He demonstrates his faith in Superman at the beginning, when he
fights with another kid who insists that the real Superman is dead, and later
when he risks his life to break into the labs where the body of the dead
ÒSupermanÓ is being kept. He shows his faith in his mother as he resists the
WhitesÕ desire to adopt him, and is ÒrewardedÓ when he finds his mother,
collapsed, in an alley. We watch as the Whites discuss adoption and what it
will mean to them, as Keith stays next to his mother as her condition
worsens, as the Whites receive permission from his mother to adopt him, and
as they and Keith share their grief and support as his mother passes away; a
sorrowful yet beautiful moment.
WhereÕs the Steel? (Sorry, couldnÕt resist.) Although heÕs almost a minor
player here, Superman receives some of the best characterization and writing
IÕve seen in a Superman title in quite a long time. Action wise, Superman
does what he does bestÑ he saves people. He stops some thugs in a tractor,
he saves a shipwrecked oil tanker, and then saves a group of refugees whose
small boat has capsized. I love seeing scenes, every now and then, of a
super-hero actually being a benefit to humanity, instead of a magnet for
super-disasters. And the characterization is wonderful. He ponders the
mystery of the Superman corpse, but at the same time shows his unselfish
concern for others. He even worries about Keith and plans to visit KeithÕs
mother in the hospital. When he realizes that heÕs shown up too late, he
shows the good taste not to interrupt the moment between Keith and the
Whites. This is a strong contrast to the obsessed, unreasonable
SupermaniacÑwhose character is as weak and malleable as silly puttyÑthat
weÕre seeing currently in the other titles.
The flaws in this issue? As far as the writing goes, it was the page wasted
on Conduit. Get this straight, Superman writersÑ Conduit is not, I repeat,
is NOT going to be the next Lex Luthor, the new ultimate Super-foe of the
Ô90s. HeÕs a poorly conceived, poorly executed cliche of a villain. Drop
him now and put him out of our misery.
On the art side, while I still admire BogdanoveÕs layouts, the art gets
sketchy at places. The most ostentatious example is the two- page spread at
the front of the book. The inking is too loose and the SupermanÕs face looks
as if he is experiencing G-force for the first time. If youÕre going to take
up two pages with a single picture, you have to spend some time on the
details, or you merely accentuate the flaws. Compare this with Mike GrellÕs
work on his early WARLORD booksÑthose were powerful and beautiful spreads.
Well, Super-crew, you caught me off-guard with this issue. It was
thoughtful, tender, and a welcome departure from super-villain bashing as
usual. But I understand in the next issue, the super- guacamole hits the fan
as the villain behind ÒDead AgainÓ is revealed. I look forward to an
action-packed issue with more plot development and less dwelling on the
supporting cast.
Anatole
========================================================
46. SUPERMAN #95, ÒThe Zero EffectÓ
Story and pencil art: Dan Jurgens
Ink art: Mike Manley
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
Jose R. Galan: 3 Shields
Shawn Aeria: 3.5 Shields Ñ Good issue except for the overly
stereotyping of the AtomÕs 17-year-old reactions.
Arthur LaMarche: 2 Shields Ñ What is it with the replacing of all the
classic heroes with the angst filled teenagers?
Ken McKee: 4.5 Shields Ñ I like seeing the old villains as they are
now. It was great to see the Atom even though he is
younger, and I am still fascinated by the current story
line. Probably is some flux in the Time line; hmmm,
Supes #96 will have Doomsday in it. That should be
interesting!
William Nixon: 4 Shields Ñ I like the Jurgens/Manley art.
Patrick M. Stout: 3 Shields Ñ AtomÕs-eye view artwork on pages 1-4 was a
nice touch (great splash page angle by Jurgens);
4th World stuff makes me yawn, though.
Anatole Wilson: 0 Shields Ñ Moronic story. The dumbing down of the Atom
marks the tragic end of intelligent super-heroes in
the DC Universe.
The only one left who could be behind the body in the tomb scheme is
Brainiac. So, to find out the truth about him Superman asks Prof. Hamilton to
fix his Mother Box. He succeeds and, through the Boom Tube, Superman travels
to New Genesis, where Brainiac is imprisoned.
Atom, now a young Ray Palmer, travels along looking for Metron and the
Moebius Chair hidden underneath SupermanÕs cape.
Highfather welcomes Superman and both go to MetronÕs Lab. The alarms are
triggered indicating an intruder has entered the room, and Atom reveals
himself and explain his motives. He wants to travel to the past, with
MetronÕs chair, to find out who he really is. After Zero Hour, in the new
timestream he was left as an 17-year-old boy with almost no memories. Metron
answers no. Frustrated, Atom enters the chair and pull some wires.
Suddenly, Metron, Superman, Lightray and, of course, Atom are pulled into
hyperspace right towards a blackhole. Following MetronÕs instructions while
Superman and Lightray keep the way clear of dangerous asteroids, Atom
repositions the wires and they all return to New Genesis.
Now time for Brainiac. Superman discovers he is even worse than Luthor. No
brain activity at all. SupermanÕs next destination: Apokolips.
A light issue in the middle of the hard plot of the dead body saga, with the
introduction of another ( Yes, another one, I think they are a Legion )
teenage hero with no past, this time the new Atom, who just mess things up
and brings trouble.
I donÕt know the future of Atom, I donÕt know what DC plans for him, and I
must say I donÕt care too much for the moment. I really care about the New
Gods. TheyÕre great, and you can only find them as guest stars when they
deserve a lot more. Just look at this issue. The story is quite faint, but
the presence of Orion, Lightray, Highfather and, of course, Metron, makes the
difference. Even the Man of Steel seems to perform a secondary role.
The solid pencils of Jurgens, this time inked by Manley ( It seems every body
can ink this man ) gives a good atmosphere to the cosmic adventure, and
cosmic travel: now the Earth, now New Genesis, now a black hole, and so on...
The best, the starting sequence about Mother Box, and the off-voice of Atom
describing the scene.
Jose R. Galan
========================================================
47. ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN #518, ÒThe Armagetto Run!Ó
Writer: Karl Kesel
Pencils: Barry Kitson
Inks: Ray McCarthy with Montano and Kesel
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
Arthur LaMarche: 4 Shields
Shawn Aeria: 4 Shields Ñ Apokolips is *much* more interesting than New
Genesis. It was good to see Lashina/Duchess alive and
kicking!
Jose R Galan: 4 Shields Ñ Great art, nice dialogues, good Darkseid
characterization.
Ken McKee: 5 Shields Ñ I loved it! The contrast between Apokolips
and New Genesis was striking! And I mentioned in a
previous KC that Mxyzptlk might have something to do
with SupermanÕs clone.
William Nixon: 3.5 Shields Ñ Dead Again continues to tie up plot threads
from the last year, this time Darkseid. The Apokolips
art was striking and the last page guess of Mxyzptlk
intriguing - did he do it?
Patrick M. Stout: 3 Shields Ñ Extremely realistic action and dialogue (pages
14-20) between Superman and Darkseid; the violently
angry Supes reminds me of one of the guys in my office,
and DarkseidÕs cool demeanor makes him that much more
chillingÑgreat work by Kesel with perfect supporting
art by Kitson and McCarthy.
Anatole Wilson: 3 Shields Ñ Nice to see old Apokolips villains, but
Super-maniac is way out of character.
BOOM! SupermanÕs Boom Tube takes him to Apokolips right in the heart of one
of GrannyÕs training sessions. Needless to say, she is not happy about it,
and sees an opportunity to impress and serve Darkseid by bringing him a
captured or dead Superman. Virman is a little more rational, maybe even more
so then our hero, and really does not know what to do. Granny does, and she
sics her entire legion on Superman expecting success. Various fight panels
ensue, but the troops are nothing more than a nuisance to Superman. Granny
become more obsessed by the moment, but Darkseid grows tired of the game and
commands Kanto, his royal assassin, to take action.
Meanwhile, the masses of Apokolips have noticed Superman and seek him as
their savior. They remember him from his first appearance on Apokolips.
They run to him and Kanto put his plan in motion. Superman is standing on an
unstable outcropping over the fire pits. Kanto uses a sonic attack and all
the masses run to Superman for help. Fearing that the outcropping will
collapse from the added weight, Superman stabilizes the outcropping, and
flies off to confront Darkseid directly. Darkseid coolly speaks with
Superman, trying to calm him down. He then hints that the culprit of the
corpse has been involved with carnival sideshow theatrics, and then sends
Superman back to Earth. Once Superman is banished, we see Darkseid begin to
plot his own destruction of Superman. Back on Earth, Superman interprets the
hint to be Mxyzptlk, and vows to reveal him.
I really enjoyed this issue. I have always enjoyed the happenings on
Apokolips, and Darkseid has always proven to be a worthy opponent for the Man
of Steel. He is physically imposing, and he is a mastermind in scheming.
Even though he is not the true culprit he is still able to take a jab at
Kal-ElÕs trembling psyche with the Òwhether you are the real Superman or
not...Ó This is not just a throw away line. The art was clean and the
colors were great. I loved the highlights on Superman caused by the lights,
especially that caused by the Fire Pits on Page 11. The fight with the
GrannyÕs legion was not all that exciting. Like I said earlier, they were
just a nuisance to Superman. But, it was good to see that his psyche was not
so damaged to keep him from holding back from really hurting these
ÒsuperfauderÓ DarkseidÕs hints can refer to only one or two people.
Brainiac, who took over a mind readerÕs body who used to work in a traveling
carnival, or Dabney Donovan who is currently the Ring Master of his own clone
circus. Both villains have a hatred for Superman and have the power to
create a corpse or the appearance of a corpse. My vote is for Brainiac, I
think the hints were a treat for the long time Superman fans.
Arthur LaMarche
========================================================
48. ACTION COMICS #705, ÒBodies & MotionÓ
Writer: David Michelinie
Artists: Jackson Guice and Denis Rodier
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
Arthur LaMarche: 1 Shield
Ken McKee: 1.5 Shields Ñ I love the current story and the struggle
that Superman is going through in trying to figure out
his identity. The cover was great. But I deeply resent
the implication that the man who murdered Sylvia
Feltman is getting his orders from God. I hope this gets
dropped real quick. As a Christian I find this deeply
offensive. For this reason I give the comic a low
rating.
William Nixon: 4 Shields Ñ the villain revealed, the appearance of
Mxyzptlk and lots of unanswered questions like how did
Brainiac do it? Oh, and a nice swipe at London
tabloids :-)
Patrick M. Stout: 4 Shields Ñ MichelinieÕs ending really was a surprise to
meÑthe whole story had a nice, sustained mood to it;
the slasher sub-plot turned me off, though.
Jeff Sykes: 2.5 Shields Ñ The more I think about it, maybe RodierÕs
inks are the problem with the art in this title. The
story is not catching me, though. Michelinie has yet
to impress me.
This issue takes us to the Star Labs were the super corpse is kept. There we
find a deranged Superman. He breaks into the lab and steals the corpse. He
is observed by the surveillance crew who quickly call the Special Crimes
Unit. While the Special Crimes Unit race to the scene, two important
developments occur. In the Daily Planet building several of the reporters
are trying to come up with a story angle on the recent developments in
SupermanÕs life. What we see is a flash back of Mxyzptlk first time
appearance in Metropolis, and a deranged Superman raving about Mxyzptlk.
Across town, Superman duplicates the test conducted by Hamilton coming up
with the same results. His rage burns even more and his psyche fragments
even worse. He trashes the lab in anger and vows to destroy the corpse
showing that the corpse is not invulnerable, thus proving that it is not the
real Superman. Still elsewhere, a psychopath murders a telemarketing
operator because he only saved three cents when he switched from Lexphone to
D.A.S.H. and he thinks that he has been sent by God to kill all deceivers Ñ
including the greatest deceiver of all. With the Telemarketing operatorÕs
corpse is a copy of the Daily Planet with the Headline ÒDuped AgainÓ.
Maggie Sawyer, Turpin, and Tenclouds arrive at Star Labs in battle suits that
have been modeled after the Kryptonian Battle Suit determined to confine the
berserking Superman. They use every piece of weaponry that the Robots can
supply, but Superman quickly destroys all three claiming that they are just
more of Mxyzptlk pranks. He rips Maggie from the rubble and claims that he
could kill her and it wouldnÕt matter because everything would return to
normal once Mxyzptlk is sent back to the 5th dimension. Just as Superman
is about the turn SawyerÕs head into goo Mxyzptlk arrives. He claims that he
is not to blame for the corpse, but wishes he was, and leaves as quickly as
he arrived. Superman screams ÒIÕm going out of my mind!Ó
Back on New Genesis there is a similar scream of Òyesss!Ó from the spire that
holds Brainiac. On the final page of the book, we see Brainiac is alive and
well. He trashes the Spire and several of the his captors and claims
responsibility for driving Superman crazy, and now plans to administer the
killing blow personally.
I have enjoyed the tour through the Superman Mythos, but I just cannot deal
with the length to which Superman is out of control. It seems that the
superteam has gone to great lengths to make Superman more Human. They killed
him, a distinctly human characteristic, and now they are having him loose his
mind. I will be glad when this is all over. I was also disturbed by the
slasher subplot. It really turned my stomach. I am sure it will be used in
latter issues, but I am sure there could be other ways to introduce this
character.
The art in the book was strong. I really enjoyed the Background colors.
With the rain throughout the book, they strongly added to the mood of the
plot. Their were also other particular scenes that struck me. I really like
the page where the Robots flashed Superman, most of the colors are whited
out. I also enjoyed the blackout-silhouetted superman except for the ÒSÓ
when he was backlit by the fire. I will be glad when Superman pulls himself
back together. I just have a hard time believing that Superman would go this
far over the edge just because of the lack of faith exhibited by some people.
Arthur LaMarche
========================================================
End of Section 2
========================================================
REVIEWS (cont)
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OTHER SUPER-TITLES:
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SUPERBOY #10, ÒHilo Monsters!Ó
Writer: Karl Kesel
Guest Artist: Humberto Ramos
Guest Inkers: Ande Parks & Stan Woch
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
Victor Chan: 3.5 Shields
Shawn Aeria: 3.5 Shields Ñ Wow!, a Òdifferent cultureÓ means more
then just exotic coloring this issue!
Arthur LaMarche: 3 Shields Ñ I always enjoy this title, but I miss
Tom Grummett
Jeff Sykes: 4 Shields Ñ Great writing by Kesel, nice art by Ramos
(though not exactly Grummett, is it?) Ñ still the
best Super-book.
Anatole Wilson: 4 Shields Ñ Nice writing, decent art, fun to read. What
IÕve come to expect from Superboy.
While Tana and Superboy are having a heart-to-heart during the remaining time
in their weekend in Hilo, a large commotion erupts in a city nearby. Promptly
flying to investigate, Superboy comes across the Banyan Beast who appears to
be animated, malevolent tree. After saving a young woman, he uses his
super-specs to sear through the trunk of the tree. After launching it in the
direction of some power lines, the tree disappears in a blaze of electricity.
Superboy delicately extricates himself from the admiration of the young woman
he had saved and flies Tana high above the ocean to continue their personal
conversation. Before long, they come across Zzitaxx, a giant seemingly
formed of electricity. The Metropolis Kid soundly defeats him only to face a
huge dinosaur. Again, Superboy lays low his enemy and discovers that his
opponents were all the transformations of BEM, a blue, gremlin-like
character.
Attempting to transform into a mechanical creature, he is beaten back by
Superboy and lands in the ocean. While Superboy races to save him, BEM
discorporates. Thinking BEM dead, Superboy laments only to be buoyed back to
joviality by the crowd. Meanwhile, the Silicon Dragons set forth a search
for BEM.
Finally alone, Tana reveals to Superboy her intentions regarding their
relationship. Sparks may fly!
Why did I get the impression that this was almost a filler issue? Well, the
storyline was somewhat mundane because Superboy didnÕt have any difficulty
against BEM, who came across as merely a disgruntled - not evil - person.
However, I was spurred by the pacing of the story and an actual progression
of SuperboyÕs relationship with Tana Moon.
I still consider RamosÕ stint as pretty admirable despite some of the
nay-sayers I come across. Even though IÕm hoping that there will be a better
plot development next issue, Superboy #10 still deserves:
3.5/5 Shields
On a side note, Tom Grummett should be back next issue. Although it
seems that heÕs been on a break (Robin #10 & 11 penciled by Phil
Jiminez - recommended), heÕs still performed cover art duties for the
issues which have been guest-penciled, for Aquaman #3 in which Superboy
guest-stars (a 4/5 Shields issue), and for the aforementioned Robin.
Victor Chan
========================================================
STEEL #10, ÒBlood GuiltÓ
Writer: Louise Simonson
Penciller: Frank Fosco
Inker: Mark Stegbauer
$1.50/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
Shawn Aeria: 2 Shields Ñ Almost 3, just because they had the good
graces to end this story early!
Arthur LaMarche: 1 Shield Ñ ClicheÕ, didnÕt care for the style of art
Jeff Sykes: 1.5 Shields Ñ Though the art was passable, the story
was very unoriginal, boring, and lacked any real
depth. (Since #0, IÕve really not enjoyed this book
much. Maybe #0 was the exception...)
Anatole Wilson: 1 Shield Ñ Convoluted plot, stiff art. Stories seem
totally disjointed from issue to issue. WhatÕs going
on here?
REVIEW
This issue begins pretty much where we left off last time. Steel is
being carted away from the murder scene by the police. Officer Beryl notices
that the victimÕs blood is an obscure drawing of a badge that was done
(presumably) by the victim in her own blood. Shauna instantaneously realizes
that she has misjudged Steel.
Steel is led outside. Detective Carroll is given another opportunity to
prove that he is a jerk. ItÕs almost as if they want to remove ALL the
suspense about who the murderous cop is! Carroll takes over the crime scene.
Shauna is sent back to the station to book Steel. As soon as she gets there
she helps Steel escape. Luckily, she saves him from having his mask removed
<GASP!> The suspense is just killing you, huh?
Steel pretends to take Shauna captive and busts out of the Police
Station. He drops Shauna off and flies away. He arrives home and gets
harassed for allowing himself to be arrested. He explains that this was his
way of trying to tell the police the truth. not an admission of guilt.
Shauna and Carroll take a stroll to the morgue for the pathology report on
Rosie. The cause of death was a claw that ripped RosieÕs jugular. We also
find out that there was an unusual skin samples beneath RosieÕs finger nails.
Steel flies to ShaunaÕs place and they compare notes. They determine that
the murderer must be a cop who hates child abusers. They canÕt decide if
RosieÕs last words about ÒAltarÓ mean a Òchurch altarÓ or an Òalter egoÓ.
Shauna makes the logical conclusion that if the meaning is ÒAlter EgoÓ the
murderer might have multiple personality disorder.
Skip to ÒAlterÓ ripping an abuserÕs head off. This seems to be a flashback
because ÒAltarÓ is shocked at what he has done. So the murderer is now
supposed to be given sympathy by the reader because he is just a product of a
bad home.
Shauna continues to gather data about the murderer. The finger print they
found at the crime scene belongs to an Adam Kroft. An abused runaway whose
father had been murdered in the fashion as AlterÕs victims. Kroft is from
Chicago, and guess what?, Ben Carroll is *also* from Chicago! Who would have
imagined that? Shauna tempts Carroll with the info she has....and guess
what, he takes the bait. She is attacked on her way home by Alter. Bullets
have no effect on him. Steel comes to her rescue in the stereotypical
Ònick-of-timeÓ. The two scuffle for a bit. Carroll is ÒrevealedÓ to be
Alter, who mutters, ÒThere is no Carroll. There is no Kroft. There is
only... THE ALTERÓ Yup, we got a murderer with Multiple Personality
Disorder.
They fight more. Steel wins. It was *that* exciting.
Shauna runs into Steels arms. She is now the official Òlove interestÓ.
The Police come with special STAR lab cuffs and haul off Alter. As usual
they make incredibly simplistic connections between mental trauma and the
cause of metagene/mutant powers. Equally simplistic parallels are made
between Alter/Carroll/Kroft and SteelÕs life as a masked vigilante.
The most interesting part of this issue; the next issue box. ÒNext
month: Extreme Justice!Ó I am going to assume this means Captain AtomÕs
version of the Justice League is going to be Washington DC. Wow, a crossover
that makes sense! Now I have to wonder which Captain Atom it will be!
OPINIONS
Poor, poor, poor issue. I am sorry if I seem overly gripeful, but Steel is
one of my favorite heroes. Passing off this sub-standard slop as a story is
a crime. Recycling is cool and all, but that doesnÕt apply to stories. I
wonder how many readers Steel lost from the poor storyline they used for
these last two issues. Well, at least they ended it quick.
Practically everyone in this issue is a throwaway character. Alter is a poor
idea badly executed. He is not novel nor is he tragic. He is too simple. (I
MISS YOU CRAZY JANE, WHERE EVER YOU ARE!!!) <ahem!> sorry for that little
outburst. Shauna Beryl is equally simple. She is the archetypal
beautiful-lady-cop-who-will-be-the-real-heroÕs-love-interest that has
appeared in almost every medium. Steel was just a big-armored-guy this
issue. He gets a ÒzeroÓ for personality this month. Those were the only
three characters who did anything this issue. Some Irons family scenes might
have given this issue some merit, but there was only one page of
confrontation with Blondell.
This comic better get its act togetherÑFAST!
Shawn Aeria
_________________________________________________________________
*****************************************************************
MINISERIES AND SPECIAL APPEARANCES:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ
GUARDIANS OF METROPOLIS #2, ÒDonovanÕs CircusÓ
Writer: Karl ÒHalf Man, Half AlligatorÓ Kesel
Pencils: Keiron ÒFire EaterÓ Dwyer
Inks: Mike ÒIndian Rubber ManÓ Manley
1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
Arthur LaMarche: 3.5 Shields
Jeff Sykes: 4 Shields Ñ This is a fun title. I hope that we can see
more of the Newsboys in the not-too-distant future.
Donovan places the captured adult News Boys and the Guardian in a literal
three rings circus. Watching the performance are countless clones of Donovan
himself. To entertain himselves, he releases various other genetically
engineered monstrosities. In ring one, he has Òthe jugglersÓ. These
creatures are small furry Òtribble-likeÓ things with razor sharp teeth. They
like to be juggled. If they are dropped they bite, and try to enter the
juggling again. In ring two, Donovan releases the clowns. They are silent
mimes, or should I write mines. They have a built in fuse that will explode
as the fuse burns down. But, they also have invisible baseball bats that are
used to bludgeon their foes. In the third ring Donovan has the animal acts.
Here a wolf-man attacks the guardian.
Meanwhile, at the orphanage the young newsboy are still trying to locate
Bobby Harper. They are being chased by guards, but Scrapper caves in a wall,
as he misses the guards with a shot from his acquired cannon. But, that
success is quickly ruined as they set off a trapdoor and fall into a cage
with many of the other orphans. Here they are able to Locate Bobby Harper,
who we find to be a girl with a lot of spunk. Luckily, the Metropolis
Special Crimes Unit shows up and rescues the boys and the other orphans.
Granny, Moxie and Virman escape through a small Boom Tube to the top of the
building. Words are exchanged as well as blame, and it appears that Moxie
will borrow some of the Furies to capture the boys and have them sent to
Apokolips.
Back at the Circus things are starting to look desperate for our heroes. But
with a little luck and a little ingenuity they are able to overcome the
clones in the rings and escape the cages. But, as they rush to escape, they
are apparently blown up in an explosion.
This was a an good comic. I love the Superman Mythos, I cannot get enough
of it. I anxiously await Showcase Ô95. I like Donovan, he is out there, he
is a classic mad scientist. The clones he creates to destroy the men of
Cadmus are just whacked. Strangling Balloons that manipulate the writing on
their surface, who else could have come up with such a thing. The Newsboys
are always good for a laugh or two. The ÒBobby HarperÓ twist was also
interesting, I hope the Superteam keeps her. The Newsboy Legion could really
use a spunky girl, kind of like a Young Lois Lane. I will keep my fingers
crossed, as I hope you all will also. I also like GabbyÕs ÒinvisibleÓ
friend Charlie the classic ÒinvisibleÓ friend that really does exist.
Arthur LaMarche
========================================================
METROPOLIS SCU #2, ÒCop OutÓ
Writer: Cindy Goff
Pencils: Pete Krause
Inks: Jose Marzan Jr
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
Arthur LaMarche: 2.5 Shields
Shawn Aeria: 2.75 Shields Ñ This story could have been a lot more
interesting.
Jeff Sykes: 2 Shields Ñ I want to like this book, but itÕs just not
working for me. It seems that there is little focus
in the story. And for the sake of POWER OF SHAZAM, Ihope
that the weak art in this title is due to the inking.
This issue opens up with training exercise for some of the new recruits to
the police force, including Lois Lane. The situation is a gunman in a
building. Some of the recruits do poorly, and some do well including Lois.
The scene then breaks to a prison escape, time passes, and Maggie and TobyÕs
relationship slips further.
We also find out that nine oil or coal refineries have been blown up by some
terrorist organization, and the SCU begins to work with the FBI to find the
culprits. The situation with the terrorist is becoming desperate, because
with every passing day the soot and ash produced by these fires is making the
days darker. By speaking to some of the witnesses the SCU is able to identify
the culprit, and are enraged to find out that he had escaped several months
ago, but the FBI kept it under wraps.
While this is going on Lois is working nights on the Metropolis Police Force.
One night, a situation develops and Lois is forced to kill a gunman to save
her partner. She handles the situation like a seasoned veteran. As Maggie
talks Lois down, Lois become ill and is forced to leave the car. After a few
more months Lois and her class mates graduate from the police academy. As
MaggieÕs congratulation speech plays in the background, Maggie walks home to
find a lonely house and a good-bye letter from Toby.
As I stated in the last review, I love the Superman Mythos. But, this was
just an average issue. The art work was average, the story was average. I
thought the darkening of the sky by a few refinery fires was a little much,
but then again, I am reading a story about a guy who flies and bounces
bullets off his chest, so I can suspend some disbelief. The strongest
portion of the story was the ending. I could feel MaggieÕs pain when she read
TobyÕs Good-bye letter. I hope she gets another chance. Once again, an
average issue, pick it up to get your fix of the Metropolis Mythos.
Arthur LaMarche
========================================================
AQUAMAN #3, ÒArthur Goes HawaiianÓ
Written by Peter David
Penciled by Gene Gonzales & Martin Egeland
Inked by Howard M. Shum
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
William J Nixon: 4.5 Shields Ñ Great writing as Aquaman comes to term with
his new harpoon and some great dialogue with a cocky
Superboy. (4 Shields for the great Grummett and
Austin cover)
Shawn Aeria: 3.5 Shields Ñ Good issue, but Superboy was portrayed
far too brash.
Jeff Sykes: 4 Shields Ñ Peter David portrayed Superboy well, if maybe
a tad too headstrong. I really enjoyed the art Ñ both
inside and out!
Quick recap: All the rumors were true and Aquaman is now a hero without a
left hand [he lost it to piranhas in Aquaman #2]. Superboy guests with jokes
and attitude. Good story.
Back in Atlantis Aquaman and his friends come to terms with his decision to
replace his missing hand with a harpoon. The first half off the book deals
with this decision and the dialogue is great. When Vulko, his advisor asks
what if he [Aquaman] forgets heÕs wearing it Garth rebukes him with Ôthe
words Ònot bloody likelyÓ come to mindÕ. Porm, AquamanÕs dolphin friend is
captured by Japanese fishermen which looks like it will become important
further down the line.
In Chapter Two ÒMaking wavesÓ Aquaman, Babe and Garth travel to a Hawaiian
military base to see General Strom - the General who contacted Garth about
the missing nuclear subs in Aquaman #1. When they arrive they face two MPÕs
who wonÕt disturb the GeneralÕs meeting, Aquaman slices the muzzles of their
rifles off and pushes one of them against the wall. Enter Superboy who grabs
Arthur by the harpoon, lifts him into the air and quips Òlooks like I got the
catch of the dayÓ. The dialogue sparkles as Superboy and Aquaman slug it out
for a couple of pages with Superboy gaining the upper hand [no pun intended].
He tells Aquaman that even with the new ÔpigstickerÕ heÕs not impressed. More
MPÕs arrive and surround Aquaman, Superboy tells him to just walk away.
Arthur tells him heÕll be back and Superboy replies ÔYeah, you do that
ÒTerminatorÓÕ
Superboy stays on with the MPÕs for three hours when puddles start appearing.
They look up to see Aquaman, Garth and Babe riding blue whales on the crest
of a tsunami as Aquaman yells out ÒHey punk, impressed yet?Ó. The waves
engulf the base and Superboy finds himself gasping for air underwater.
Aquaman points in him in the right direction and fires him out of the water
into a wall. Garth, Babe and Aquaman then head down the corridor to StromÕs
office. Superboy puts in a final appearance, disheveled, his outfit torn but
his goggles intact. Aquaman gives him a lecture on his own reputation and the
importance of knowing when to hold back. Strom dismisses Superboy and meets
up with Aquaman. Garth, Aquaman and Babe stride in to StromÕs office. Babe
gives Superboy a kiss and heÕs left standing, looking slightly confused as
the door slams shut.
I came to this title because of Peter DavidÕs writing and must admit I was
uneasy about the whole Òlosing the hand thingÓ. But this is the Ô90Õs and it
seems radical things must happen to heroes these days. The way Peter David
has handled it (and conceived it) has been well thought out and itÕs starting
to make for compulsive reading. Characterization is strong in this title and
SuperboyÕs character was cocky, wise-cracking and not short of a few fish or
hand jokes. He was youth pitted against the experience and assurance of a
mature Aquaman and David made the most of that. Superboy even after being
slammed into a wall doggedly pursues Aquaman until heÕs dismissed, ready to
go down to his last gasp rather than walk away.
The art was strong as EgelandÕs pencils (with Gonzales this issue) continue
to define the look of the new Aquaman with beard, flowing blonde hair and the
harpoon. Superboy was drawn older than I would expect to see him and looked
19 or 20 years old but guest appearances give other artists the opportunity
to showcase their interpretation. I wouldnÕt say this issue is essential
Superboy reading, but he does have some great lines and it will be interesting
to see his future dealings with Aquaman. There are a number of Aquaman plot
threads set up in this issue, and if SuperboyÕs appearance can get people
interested in the guy from under the waves, then so much the better. This
version should be the one that keeps him back in the DC Universe :-) In
summary, give it a try and see what you think.
William J Nixon
========================================================
End of Section 3
========================================================
LOOKING BACK
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THE POST-BYRNE REVIEW:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
by Mark Lamutt (markdl@netcom.com / mdlamut0@wcc.com)
Title: ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN #467, ÒDark Knight Over MetropolisÓ
Written by: Dan Jurgens
Penciled by: Dan Jurgens
Inked by: Art Thibert
Cover Date: June 1990
Cover Price: $0.75 US/$0.95 CAN/50p UK
Overstreet: $1.00
Dark Knight Over Metropolis - Part Two
To: Mannheim, Director of Intergang
From: Gillespie
RE: Intergang Activities Update
Morgan Edge, former director of WGBS, and one of IntergangÕs main co-
conspirators, will soon be going on trial. Cat GrantÕs cover of a
romantic involvement with Edge gained her information leading to a series of
damaging articles by Clark Kent and Lois Lane. Jose Delgado, AKA
Gangbuster, has been hired by CatÕs former husband to protect her for the
duration of the Edge trial.
ÒCat CallsÓ - by Catherine Grant
Ladies, get ready! Gotham CityÕs most eligible bachelor is coming to
town for the Zenith Awards, hosted by Lex Luthor tomorrow night. Bruce
Wayne should steal some of the spotlight from the festivities...
SupermanÕs thoughts trouble him as he makes his nightly patrol, as the
Batman has come to Metropolis. The Dark Knight left a note for
Superman requesting a meeting, and Superman is concerned.
** Interstate Dispatch **
Unidentified homicide victim in Metropolis showed signs of slight
radiation poisoning...
Breaking into the Metropolis police seventh precinct, Batman enters the
morgue. He is taking pictures of the dead womanÕs body, when an officer
surprises him. The officer orders Batman to answer some questions, to
which he asks, ÒAre you going to shoot me in the back as I walk out of
here?Ó The officer trips the alarms as Batman swings from the open
window.
As he patrols, Superman hears the alarms. Flying to the scene, the Man
of Steel spots a shadowed figure on a rooftop, and assuming that it is
Batman, he descends. However, the figure turns out to be Gangbuster, who is
guarding Cat GrantÕs apartment from the rooftop. Soon thereafter, Batman
arrives on the scene, and asks to speak with Superman alone.
As the two fly into the night, Cat appears on the roof, and the roof
gives way under GangbusterÕs feet. He falls into the room beneath, where he
is met with a man calling himself Shockwave. As you will recall from last
monthÕs issue, Shockwave was one of the two hired by Intergang to capture
Cat. The other was Chiller, a self-proclaimed human chameleon, who also
appears on the scene. Jose Delgado lays stunned on the floor, as
Chiller assumes his form.
ÒZenith AwardsÓ - by Rollin DeWitt
Clark Kent, formerly a staff columnist with the Daily Planet is expected
to dominate the awards tonight for his series exposing Intergang. Aided by
Lois Lane and Cat Grant, his series shed light on years of underworld
activities that had baffled authorities...
Superman and Batman descend to the ground next to Bruce WayneÕs
limousine, where Batman takes a picture from his onboard computer and
shows it to Superman. Superman recognizes the woman immediately, as
the one who some weeks before had tried to kill him with LuthorÕs
Kryptonite ring. Batman neglects to reveal to Superman that he is now in
possession of the ring.
As the ring once belonged to Lex Luthor, Superman and Batman break into
the LexCorp tower to look around. After Superman circumvents the
electronic surveillance with his heat vision, the pair enter LuthorÕs
private sanctuary. Batman immediately searches the computer and discovers
the woman who had the ring, and her address. Superman hears guards moving
their way, so the two beat a hasty retreat.
Meanwhile, Chiller, disguised as Delgado, arrives at Cat GrantÕs
apartment, ready to take her to the awards.
The scene shifts to the Zenith awards ceremony, as Clark and Lois make
their appearance. They meet Bruce Wayne, and then run into Lex Luthor.
Telling Clark that he once saved his life, Lex Luthor makes it known that
he always pays his debts.
At that moment, Intergang attacks, with laser fire sizzling though the
air. As Clark moves away from the crowd, tearing open his shirt, Luthor
shoves him out of the way of the incoming fire. Bruce Wayne moves Lois
to safety, and then moves away to become the Dark Knight. Heating the
pool with his heat vision, Clark uses the rising steam to cover his change
to the Man of Steel. Batman takes care of the Intergang thugs on the
ground, while Superman takes out their ship.
After the excitement, Lois asks both of the heroes if Cat has arrived
yet. Fearing that she has been caught, Superman and Batman fly off in search
of her. Meanwhile, Shockwave collapses the building where he has
Gangbuster tied up, and Chiller reveals his true identity to Cat, as the
cab they are riding in drives away.
As with part one of this story arc, the writing style used by the various
authors - Dan Jurgens in this case - makes the readability choppy. The
scenes are all broken into pieces, with newspaper articles tying them
together. However, now that the story is progressing, the tension is
building nicely. And, as far as writers go, Dan Jurgens is one of the
best (or, in my opinion, he used to be anyway). Dan resolves some of the
minor points of the story in this issue, but the main storyline builds to a
peak, requiring the reader to wait two weeks for resolution. All in all,
though, a well written issue that definitely makes the reader want to
pick up the concluding issue in this arc.
Concerning the artwork in this issue, it is exemplary, except for one
thing that really annoys me. BatmanÕs cowl is drawn with ears so small that
he looks more like a mouse than a Bat. I donÕt know if this was the way
Batman was being drawn back then, as I didnÕt read the book, but
compared to the way he is drawn today, he just doesnÕt look correct.
Other than that, though, the art is well done.
Out of a possible 5 shields, I give this book 3 shields. Stay tuned next
time for the conclusion of Dark Knight over Metropolis in Action Comics
#654.
Mark
========================================================
THE PRE-BYRNE REVIEWS:
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SUPERMAN #136
DATE: April, 1960
TITLE: ÒThe Super-Clown of MetropolisÓ
EDITOR: Mort Weisinger
REVIEW BY: Patrick Stout
PLOT SYNOPSIS: Lois reads a message on one of the Daily PlanetÕs
newswiresÑSuperman is urgently requested to visit billionaire ÒSad SamÓ
Smith. Clark feigns dizziness from a recent glance out the window, makes
a quick trip to the storeroom, and soon Superman is flying toward the
wealthy manÕs estate. ÒThings are picking up,Ó he thinks. ÒNow IÕm
getting distress-calls from billionaires.Ó
Smith tells Superman that heÕs dying and would like to laugh one time
before his death. If anyone makes Smith laugh, heÕll leave his $1
billion fortune to the Metropolis Orphan Fund; if he fails to find
amusement before dying, his death will trigger the material destruction
of his savings and property.
A television comedian, a circus clown, and a vaudeville act all fail to
amuse the billionaire while Superman is present. The man of steel flies
off to his Fortress of Solitude, returning to SmithÕs mansion with a
crate of materials heÕd prepared for a charity benefit the following
week. Ripping the inner workings out of a television set, Superman
inserts his face and blurs the image to duplicate technical difficulty.
This more angers than amuses Smith, for his $500 TV set is ruined.
Superman introduces a robot sidekick dressed in a top hat who eats a
giant dumbbell like licorice and knocks the man of steel out with a wooden
malletÑSmith is bored. Superman makes a mile-long hero sandwich and
peels a 6-foot mountain of onions to go with itÑSmith cries from the
onion fumes. Superman whips up a gigantic pie ala mode, and his robot
stooge trips him and causes him to fall into the pie toppingÑSmith tells
the ice cream-coated superhero that the jokeÕs not funny.
The man of steel imitates Red SkeltonÕs bird routine, he blows a giant
bubblegum bubble and pretends itÕs carrying him aloft, he pretends to be
injured by a childÕs Kryptonite-shaped green rubber ball, he introduces a
Superman robot that tap dances and falls apart. The jokes just donÕt get
to the sad-faced billionaire, and Superman gives up.
Clark Kent later enters SmithÕs home to interview him and write the story
of how Superman failed to make him laugh. During the interview, his
x-ray vision spots a toddler toppling off a bridge. With no time to
spare to make excuses, he immediately changes to Superman and prepares to
go to the rescue. Smith laughs uproariously: ÒHa! Ha! Ha! Meek, mild,
shy Clark Kent supposedly Superman? Ho! Ho! What a laugh! How hilarious!Ó
ÒYouÕll believe it when I leap out through that window,Ó Clark says, but
then his x-ray vision shows him that a policeman has caught the falling
boy and returned him to his mother. To complete his performance, he
misses the window and crashes into the wall beside it. Sad Sam continues
to laugh, assuring Clark that he has earned the billion dollars for the
orphan fund.
One month later, Lois tells Clark that the billionaire, now known as
ÒHappy SamÓ, has had a complete reversal of health. ÒHe canÕt stop
laughing whenever he thinks of you,Ó she says, Òand heÕs now working on
his second billion.Ó
REVIEW: This is essentially a two or three paragraph plot padded out to
fill eight pages. ItÕs Superman in a situation comedy.
For anyone whoÕs seen Superman create a smoke-filled room or use
super-breath to blow a person out the door, itÕs silly to think that
ClarkÕs mind couldnÕt come up with a way to stop Sad Sam from witnessing
his change to Superman. This story discarded the sense that Clark would
always shield his other identity for the sake of its necessary punch line.
But, I must say, I got a laugh out of Clark/Superman crashing into the
living room wall. Though it didnÕt phase Sad Sam, I think the two-panel
scene where Superman falls into the pie is also hilarious. And the
onion-peeling panel is worth a chuckle. There have been many stories
written for laughs where Superman plays straight man; this is one of the
few where heÕs the comedian.
========================================================
SUPERMAN #399, ÒThe Man Who Saw Superman Die,Ó Sept. 1984
Written by Paul Kupperberg
Penciled by Eduardo Barreto
Inked by Dave Hunt
$.75
Rating: 4 Shields. Colonel Future is quite a hero with his
jetpack and ability to see the future.
This story opens with Colonel Hamilton and Dr. Isaacs standing
outside the Metropolis headquarters of S.T.A.R. Labs
congratulating each other on their successful space-shuttle
navigation project. They separate and suddenly Colonel Hamilton
reacts to a mental picture of being hit by a careening car. He
barely escapes injury and realizes he is seeing the
future...again. He begins to remember his life as Colonel Future
and how he tried to use his ÒFuturesightÓ to ÒseeÓ and avert
futuristic technology. This time he sees Superman being shot with
an ordinary gun and dying!
Cut to Clark Kent on the television show ÒMetropolis MorningÓ
interviewing Superman; actually it is an actor who just happens
to be filming the next Superman movie while raising money for a
local charity. At the same time some crooks are planning to steal
the charity funds by wearing Superman costumes at the local
fund-raiser. It seems there will be a lot of people wearing
Superman costumes at the party.
Later that day Colonel Future zooms through the atmosphere trying
to recreate the events that allow him to see the future. The only
drawback is that he has to be in a near fatal situation to
experience it. So he turns off his jetpack and plummets to the
earth realizing he has only a matter of seconds to restart the
engine or be a greasy spot on the ground. Naturally Superman
tries to intercept the plunging Future. Suddenly the Colonel
disappears and then reappears at S.T.A.R. Labs, leaving Superman
completely baffled. Colonel Future now knows exactly when and
where Superman will die; heÕs just not sure how to prevent it.
The Colonel sets up a dangerous decoy to attract SupermanÕs
attention while the crooks dressed up in Superman costumes take
off with all the charity funds. Meanwhile a battle ensues between
Colonel Future and Superman. Future has Superman in a force
field which he finds difficult to escape. Future has the ability
to make himself invisible with a teleportation device, making his
capture even more difficult. Future is intent on keeping Superman
preoccupied and away from his appointment with death.
Unfortunately he inadvertently teleports himself to the very spot
where Superman is supposed to die. This is also the same location
where the Superman look-alikes are located.
One of the crooks knocks Future out from behind and puts a
Superman costume on him as a decoy for the cops. When Future
recovers he finds an armed guard pointing a loaded gun at him. In
a panic Future tries to explain that the guard has the wrong man.
A shot rings out from the copÕs gun and Future falls to the
ground. Just then the real Superman swoops down and explains to
the guard that Future has not been shot. He melted the bullet
with his heat vision before it hit its target; Future only had a
mild heart attack.
Finally the bad guys are captured and Superman revives Future
from his Ònear death experience.Ó Future says to Superman, ÒBut
you...you werenÕt shot...didnÕt die...? My precognitive
sight...was wrong again?Ó Superman responds, ÒNot quite, Ed...you
just interpreted it wrong! You were in a Superman costume and you
were shot at...and you did die...at least technically, for a few
seconds.Ó
The story ends there. But I would like to see more of Colonel
Future as a modern-day hero.
Ken McKee
stdkrm01@shsu.edu
========================================================
THE SUPER-KIDS OF SUPERMAN!
by Jon Knutson (jonknutson@aol.com)
Part 2 (of 5)
In Superman 215, Apr 68, the story opens at Lois LaneÕs funeral. Her
widowed husband, Superman, and their child, Lanie, are grief-stricken. We
discover that the Dimension Master shot Superman with a ray that bouced
off him and hit Lois, apparently blasting her to atoms. Lanie, a mere tot,
wants to revenge her motherÕs death, but Superman stops her. Flying to
the Fortress of Solitude, Superman tells Lanie never to open a certain
door. In the months that follow, Superman and Lanie try to make a normal
life for themselves. A year later, Superman unveils a Lois robot.
However, Superman deludes himself into thinking itÕs the real Lois, and
when he is reminded of LoisÕ death, he does nothing when the robotÕs power
runs down. The Planet decides to hold a contest to find a new wife for
Superman, and one of the contestants is a dead-ringer (no pun intended)
for Lois, but it turns out to be the Dimension MasterÕs wife, Chamelon
Queen. As the two laugh at Superman, Braniac and Luthor swoop in and kill
SupermanÕs tormentors.
Later, at the Fortress, Lanie accidently exposes herself to Red K, which
causes her to disintegrate before SupermanÕs eyes. However, Superman
finds the rays simply sent her to a parallel Earth. Superman exposes
himself to the same rays, and travels to the parallel Earth. Finding Lanie,
Superman decides to take his daughter to this parallel EarthÕs Fortress.
Using his telescopic vision, he spots this EarthÕs Lois, who isnÕt married.
Predictably, Lois gets herself in trouble, and Superman flies to her rescue.
Lois apologizes for being such a pest, but Superman just asks her to marry
him. He runs into this EarthÕs Superman, who is less than pleased that his
EarthÕs Lois thinks that he proposed to her. The two Supermen agree to
switch Earths.
In Superman 218 (Jul 69), we find whatÕs apparently the only non-
Imagionary story with a super-child (not counting the WorldÕs Finest
Super-Sons stories). ÒSupermanÕs Secret PastÓ Opens at a celebration in
Lake City on the anniversary of the day Superman saved the town from a
flood. While visiting the celebration, Superman spots a tot Òplaying with a
fistful of diamonds... as if they were marbles.Ó Lois, who is covering the
event, comes upon Superman and the tot. Superman thinks somehow the
tot got the diamonds from a nearby jewelry store which is closed for the
event. The tot takes Lois and Superman to his mother.
Arriving there, the tot (whose name is Carl) is scolded by his mother
for taking the jewels outside. She tells Superman that Carl made them
himself by squeezing lumps of coal. She asks Superman why heÕs
surprised, but Supeman insists heÕs never seen Carl before in his life.
This upsets the woman, Larissa Lenox (thereÕs that double-L thing again!),
because she ans Superman were married five years ago. She shows him
their marriage certificate, inscribed wedding ring, and photos from their
honeymoon. The last photo has a picture of Mr. Mxyzptlk, which causes
Lois to theorize that Mxy used his magic to erase SupermanÕs memory of
the marriage.
Superman still canÕt believe it, until Larissa shows Superman the
super-suit she claims he made for Carl, which is indestructible, and Carl
demonstrates he can fly like his father. Superman decides he needs to
make one more test, and brings some Kryptonite in a lead box. Upon
opening it, Carl reacts in pain. Superman starts to make up for lost time,
but finds that Carl isnÕt happy with standard toys Ñ he wants to play with
the real thing. Superman tells Larissa that heÕll teach Carl how to use
his powers properly, but first they must go to the Fortress of Solitude for
the Kryptonian Oath of Dedication. Repeating the oath, Carl says ÒKayeltee
Peazee Wyex Em,Ó which is KLTPZYXM, or Mxyzptlk backwards. Carl
changes into Mxy, and returns to his own dimension as Larissa dissolves.
Superman tells Lois that he was first suspicious when he noticed the
diamonds were cut, but the coal-squeezing trick only produces uncut
diamonds. Later, the Kryptonite test used fake Green K.
Six issues later, itÕs Imagionary Novel time. In Superman 224 (Feb 70),
in a story called ÒBeware the Super-Genious Baby,Ó Lois and Superman are
celebrating their first anniversary. That evening, Professor Ulvo focuses
his F-D 33 rayon Superman and Lois. Eight days later, Lois tells Superman
heÕs going to be a father. After the baby is born, however, Superman
doesnÕt permit anyone but himself and Lois to see it, despite all the
presents given it by admirers.
When feeding time arrives, his baby son, who has an enlarged head,
tells his father he wants a steak dinner, not baby food. Lois acts like
nothing is unusual about it, but Superman is concerned. His son tells him
that he has the power of super-osmosis, which is how he learned to speak
so quickly. The child, who already resembles a toddler rather than a baby,
starts demonstrating incredible intelligence.
We switch back to Professor Ulvo, who is monitoring all this gleefully,
since this is part of his plot for SupermanÕs downfall. Before too long, the
child is so contemptuous toward his parents that he flies away. The child
zooms to UlvoÕs hideout, where he is provided with the best scientific
equipment money can buy. The child tells Ulvo that heÕs going to take over
the world with his super-intelligence. Superman tries to convince the
child to give up his life of crime, but soon discovers that even Kryptonite
is ineffective against the child. Just as things look dark, the child reverts
to normalcy, and we discover that Superman had secretly sprayed a
delayed-action cerebral neutralyzer on his son.
Continued Next Month!
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End of Section 4
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LOIS AND CLARK: THE NEW ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ
UP, UP, AND COMING:
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Due to some mix ups and some unavoidable problems, Johanna Draper had to step
down as coordinator of this section. As a result, two of the reviews we had
planned for this month will be (temporarily, I hope!) shelved. However, I
would like to introduce you all to Jennifer Traver, who has graciously
volunteered to take over the job. Her debut follows with a review of ÒChurch
of Metropolis!Ó
On the informative front, according to HERO ILLUSTRATED, the only new
episode which will be shown in December is ÒSeasons GreetingsÓ (Dec. 4),
written by Dean Cain and reuniting Sherman Hemsley and Isabelle Sanford (THE
JEFFERSONSÕ George and Louise Jefferson)! The story deals with a toymaker
who creates a toy that makes people greedy and selfish at Christmas. (The
article points out that this was originally to be the Toyman, but that was
changed.) And on an even sadder note, the show will be pre-empted until
January 8 (not even any reruns)! One bright light Ñ the Jan 8 episode
features Metallo!
Jeff
========================================================
CHURCH OF METROPOLIS
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ
by Jennifer L. Traver (ksq3@maristb.marist.edu)
Greetings fellow Kryptonians! Welcome once again to the second
installment of the Lois and Clark section. I am your lovely hostess,
Jennifer. We will be departing for Review Land in just a few moments,
so please fasten your seatbelts and put your trays in an upright
position... Well, hello FOLCs, I hope you have been frantically
awaiting the latest issue of the Kryptonian Cybernet. I know I have!
This month we will be reviewing more wonderful episodes of your favorite
show and mine: ÒLois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman.Ó This
month I have the dubious distinction of not only coordinating the
section but reviewing an episode as well. So enough with the flight
delays, please ready yourselves for takeoff...
Church of Metropolis was in my opinion, a very decent episode. I
would hesitate to nominate it for Best Episode of the Year, but
nonetheless, it was quite solid on action, plot, dialogue and romance.
In this episode we are introduced to Intergang as the villain of the
week (and perhaps the season). This is a welcome relief from the stale
villain plots of last season (ÒWhoÕs the villain this week? Lex Luthor?
Gee, what a surprise...). The South Side of Metropolis has been
experiencing a rash of gang violence. Upon investigation, it would
appear that the events are related to Intergang, the international
crime organization. At the head of this organization is Bill Church,
the seemingly mild-mannered owner of the Cost-Mart chain. We certainly
get our share of action and we see Superman more times than we did
perhaps in the last three weeks. Superman appropriately saves the day,
but alas does not discover Bill Church as the Intergang mastermind.
This is a nice open ended way to end the episode as we just may see
Intergang and Bill Church again this season...
Upon Lois and ClarkÕs investigation, they meet up with Mason Drake,
the District Attorney. Bingo! Instant attraction between Mason and
Clark. Also gratifying is LoisÕ reaction to this. She is obviously
jealous, even though she isnÕt sure of the exact reasons. Mason is
very interested in Clark, even though she dislikes Superman intensely.
This is an interesting paradox for Clark to have to work through.
As it is nice to see a different villain for a change, so is it very
nice to see a different love interest besides Lois.
Church of Metropolis is also notable for its abundance of great one-
liners. In fact, my fingers could barely record them all. I was
worried that this episode would confirm the network rumor of more
action, less romance and comedy, but I was gratefully relieved. The
snappy dialogue was at times subtle, and made me feel smart for having
recognized it (Believe me, it doesnÕt take much). For example, Superman
discovers a mechanical bug sent by Intergang to genetically tag its
targets. This is the secret to IntergangÕs amazing ability to have
bullets target someone anywhere in the city. Upon this discovery,
Superman crashes the control center where the bug came from and shouts:
ÒQuit Bugging people!Ó But I digress...
The comic subplot between Perry and Jimmy was well done, though slightly
corny and seemingly irrelevant. Perry gives Jimmy love advice with the
metaphor of love as a jungle river. The accompanying jungle music is
great and very appropriate. These scenes provide some much needed
character development for the newcomer Justin Whalen.
In the end, everything gets wrapped up tight, as usual, and the gang
heads for a charity ball. Lois and Clark share a tender moment on the
dance floor, but are soon interrupted by Mason Drake. At home we all
sigh a collective sigh of ÒAwwww, poor LoisÓ But Lois is pleasantly
surprised later at her apartment by Superman. They dance in mid air to
the tune of ÒFly me to the moonÓ. This has to be THE BEST Lois and
Superman moment EVER. SupermanÕs portrayal becomes more human and gives
us a much needed break from the relentless stream of Lois and Clark
moments.
In conclusion, in this episode the writers show us that they can pull
a combination of action romance and comedy. And I personally am
gratified with the knowledge that there are other women out there who
like Clark better than Superman. Opinions, ladies?
Jennifer
========================================================
ALIEN NOTION
ÑÑÑÑÑÑ
By Zoomway
No, the title isnÕt a typo of Alien Nation, but rather it is a
reminder that there is an element to Clark/SupermanÕs
character which has yet to be fully explored on Lois and
Clark The New Adventures of Superman. There is an alien
among us, and though he looks like us (well, better than
most of us) he is still not one of us.
It does not matter that Superman pulls out his Kryptonian
bag of tricks and reminds us that he has special abilities that
set him apart, because even Samantha Stevens could twitch
her nose and more or less dip into the same warehouse. We
should be told what being an alien among humans really
means to him. We do know that he feels he doesnÕt fit in,
and has felt that way all of his life, but it wasnÕt until he
found the mysterious globe that he realized he was from the
doomed planet Krypton.
Does he ever sit around and wonder what heÕd be doing on
the old home planet had it not been destroyed? At this point
in time, the only people he can really talk to about his
feelings would be his parents, although, in the Superman
persona, he could always talk things over with Lois Lane,
because her acceptance of his alien nature has never been
explored either. What did Lois think Superman was the first
time she saw him as he gobbled a bomb on the sabotaged
space shuttle; a robot, a government experiment, a mutant,
an escapee from the X-Files? What is intriguing about Lois
is that regardless of what he actually was, she was
immediately captivated by him. It was Cat Grant, of all
people, stunned that Lois was finally swept off her feet, who
made the one telling statement about Superman, ÒToo bad
heÕs an alien.Ó
Even Clark Kent himself does not seem to grasp this one
simple truth about himself. No matter how human he looks,
acts, and feels, he is not human. Simply considering
himself an outsider means that ClarkÕs denial mojo is in
good operating order. To be fair, when he did actually find
out that he was an alien, he asked himself questions; what
was Krypton like, who were my parents, did everyone there
have powers like me, will I age normally, will I die, etc, but
this approach sounded much more like a human adopted
child finding out something of his true heritage and not
someone coming to grips with being a different species.
That would be like me waking up tomorrow morning and
finding out that I had morphed into a man over night and
began musing over whether or not I would get a receding
hairline, or that I would have to get used to shaving a new
part of my body, but not once considering what it meant to
truly be a man. No matter how much I still felt like a woman
on the inside, I would have to face the lie in the mirror every
day, and perhaps with Clark, thereÕs the rub.
Without pointed ears, green skin, or some other outward
indicator, Clark simply sees himself as a human with
different abilities than the other humans who surround him.
Is this truly a case of nurture versus nature? Were
Kryptonians so like us that there was nothing uniquely alien
about them? By this I do not mean philosophically, or
politically, but something endemic to them as a species.
Vulcans, for example, have to go through the Pon Far
mating drive every seven years. It is as much a part of them
as their green blood, and it cannot be ignored, or pretended
away. Is there anything similar for Kryptonians? Do they
bond emotionally or mentally to a mate long before any
physical contact takes place? Is that why Clark was
instantly attracted to Lois despite all of her attempts to
dissuade him? Is that what he meant when he said, ÒYouÕre
the first woman whoever....Ó Whoever what? Turned me
on, attracted me, blew my fuse, made me finally understand
the locker room talk from high school? Does this mean that
Kryptonians reach maturity at an older age than humans, or
was Clark just slow for his age group?
If there is in fact no fundamental difference between
humans and Kryptonians, other than some neat powers
acquired under a yellow sun, then Clark has every right to
feel like an enhanced human. But if there are influences of
an alien nature working on him, letÕs see them, and letÕs see
how he deals with them, and perhaps even more interesting
will be watching those who know and love him, deal with the
alien notion.
========================================================
AND WHO DISGUISED AS...:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
by J.D. Rummel (rummel@phoenix.creighton.edu)
Superman, Romance, Marriage and Other Fantasies.
IÕd like to examine some issues that have arisen lately, both in the
Cybernet and in my own head. _Lois & Clark_ is about romance much more
than adventure (or at least it does romance more enjoyably). Zoomway
brought up in one of her past columns the concept of fantasy as it relates
to the TV Man of Steel and his outlook on marriage. Her waggish comment
that she Òknew he was an alienÓ when he professed to want to be a husband
and father drew quite a bit of response from the readership.
Some men responded that they were offended by her comment, and stated that
they were exceptions. Some women wrote in to say that they shared
ZoomwayÕs sentiments based on their encounters with the opposite sex. I
donÕt doubt any of them, neither the men nor the women, and I wonder where
these perceptions come from. It would be hard to point at any one source
as the sole cause, but in my case, a lot of sexual identity confusion can
be traced to the comics. LetÕs start with the original Superman:
It was a geekÕs fantasy.
Some guys who were always picked last for the team got together and
imagined as all geeks do that they were not really geeks, but were in fact
(over-compensating here), _better_ than all of those who berated them. _If
the jerks of the world only knew who I really am_ goes the standard geek
thought, _theyÕd be sorry_. Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster created one of
the most recognized of all figures in human history. They gave their
Superman an alter ego that was their disenfranchised selves; Clark Kent
started as a weak, unappealing wussy-man, a post-nasal drip who was
secretly laughing at the world. As a true classroom pariah, I knew this
guy, I walked to school and hid from bullies in his pants everyday. So how
did my hero relate to the opposite sex? Over the years, Superman starred
in hundreds, no, thousands of stories in most of which he played out this
geek/superstar role. As Clark, he would be spurned by Lois or Lana, or
some LL woman, only to watch them compare him to the unattainable
Superman. Women were literally and figuratively one-dimensional. Their
purpose, other than objects to be rescued, was to find fulfillment as Mrs.
Superman. This whole unhealthy story was some kind of game played by the
creators. The joke, of course, was always on the woman. If sheÕd date the
geek (kiss the frog?) sheÕd find her dream. Sadly, this game was also
played on the reader. For years I bought this vision, believing that it
was my job to rescue women and be sought after as special. The truth was
that I was neither an unredeemable weirdo, nor Superman, I was just a guy,
trying to find his way.
Switch to the late eighties-early-mid-nineties and Superman and Kent are
virtually indistinguishable. One flies without glasses is apparently the
only difference. Clark Kent today is hardly a geek. Intelligent, nice,
gentle, athletic, handsome, a successful career writer; he is fabulousÑa
prize. However, he is no more realistic a character than his mild-mannered
predecessor, and the relationship he has with Lois, while different, isnÕt
a whole lot closer to reality.
On TV, the woman of his dreams still does not tumble for him, she still
wants the unattainable Superman. Like the first Clark incarnation, this
one too is playing a game. He hangs out with her during the day as good
olÕ Kent, and then sometimes stops by her place in his cape to make her
heart beat a little faster. ItÕs good work if you can find it, but I
understand better the game that is being played here by the creators.
Fantasy role-playing for the hungry hearted.
Lois is a beautiful, successful career woman who, like so many of us,
believes in, but cannot find, The One. She denies her desire for this of
course, itÕs unseemly to display oneÕs needs in twentieth century America.
She has her career, and thatÕs all she needs. ThatÕs the real world, most
of us can identify with that, even if we arenÕt beautiful and successful.
Now here comes the fantasy: she actually has it all! She works with a
wonderful guy and also has the eye of a demi-god. She canÕt really lose,
because no matter which guy she chooses she gets them both!
I used to tell myself: ÒShe canÕt ever _have_ them, the fantasy would
end.Ó A couple of issues back I wrote that _Superman II_ was the best of
the movies partly because it deals with the reality that Superman canÕt
marry. Not because of NivenÕs physics, (I suspect Zoomway may be right in
terms of alien lovemaking, or if sheÕs not, at least itÕs interesting
reading), no, I didnÕt think Superman could marry for another reason; I
reasoned that a man with his powers would be selling himself and the rest
of the world short by settling down. Consider this, marriage is a
commitment, not a hobby. How much of his lifeÕs priorities would change by
committing to building a life with one woman? A husband canÕt go out at
all hours rescuing the world. His job is providing his half of a world for
his wife and children. Being Superman is like being the ultimate doctor,
the _uber_ cop, all rolled into one. On one level, Superman is actually a
tragedy. His very greatness keeps him bound away from the simple pleasures
we all desire.
After considerable reflection, I think thatÕs partially crapÑmy own
flight instinctÑthe fear of commitment that so many women encounter in
men.
Maybe they can marry. Maybe the fantasy would then be the married
adventures of Superman. Sort of, _I Love Lois_ Which brings to mind such
classic exchanges as:
Superman:ÓLoooooiiiiisssss!Ó
Lois:ÓAaaaaahhhh, Clarky, ahhhhhh!Ó
Maybe not.
They say that in the comics Superman and Lois will get married. IÕm
interested in seeing that for a number of reasons, but the main one is
this: It would be nice to see these role models settle down and live,
setting a sound example for the children of all ages who may still be
forming attitudes about relationships. Granted, Lois and Clark will
continue to live much more exciting lives than any of us; I doubt that
they will portray life as accurately as great art, after all, this is
still the entertainment business. But itÕs a tough world out there, and we
need all the help we can get.
Away.
========================================================
End of Section 5
========================================================
SUPERMAN WORDPLAY
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
By Ken McKee (stdkrm01@shsu.edu)
All of the words below can be found in this puzzle either
vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.
S U P E R M A N P E R R Y W H I T E M I N T Y D Z X D O N D
U B A R T E R I H A T C H E R R O N O K I P A T C A A D E R
P E T A G E O R G E R E E V E R A Y N S U P D E R N I M S E
E K Z D A E Q R G E R E L V E S E E G X A B S O Y D L A L M
R X Y I P R I P T O N W H Y A R E Y O U S O M A D A Y T O I
G A B C O R O H T U L X E L G I H J L N M P O R G S P A Y L
I N A A K R A C E D G I K M O O P R S O V W O X Y Z L O M H
R A O T O T A B I Z Z A R O X I G H I T I U D N O C A P M A
L O O O L A E M A M N O P R T Z S W V R S T A M O A N N I M
O N A R I O C X M X Y Z P T L K T L E N L I R T T T E L J I
O I N D P N A S B D A C E F K L M N A P R Q K Q S G T N O L
O Z P A S B I S U P E R B O Y C D F E N G H S I J R J A N T
K R Y P T O N I A N C Y B E R N E T J H E P E T R A U M D O
R K A O J E I S U S S I D O R L S T A R S L I A G N O Y E N
Y N B K Z E A R O S D E A N C A I N T T E N D O C T L O B S
P S C O S Z R E T R O T U V R X R A Y R K E N M C R K T E U
T I D L T I B N B R E N T I I S D D A E E E J E O F F Q N M
O S E I S U E E M A R N E W S T I M E K N I N D E T Y C R D
N I F P R K G E N E R A T I O N S I G O R S N D U G O V Y A
L R G S K A C T I O N C O M I C S S A C B A F G A E J K B C
L C H R I S T O P H E R R E E V E S P O K O L I P S S A N O
O C A L O M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z E R O H O U R H E H B
H L Z O M E T R O P O L I S K J E F F S Y K E S H E R O O B
C J E R R Y S I E G E L J O E S H U S T E R W H Y B O T J I
J O H N H E N R Y C Y B O R G M L L E P P A H C D I V A D B
SUPERMAN KRYPTON CRISIS
CLARK KENT ERADICATOR ZERO HOUR
LOIS LANE KANDOR CAT GRANT
PERRY WHITE DAILY PLANET CONDUIT
JIMMY OLSEN JERRY SIEGEL DARKSEID
DOOMSDAY JOE SHUSTER MONGOL
LEX LUTHOR METROPOLIS APOKOLIPS
KRYPTONIAN CYBERNET DEAN CAIN TERI HATCHER
JEFF SYKES JOHN BYRNE MXYZPTLK
NEWSTIME CHRISTOPHER REEVES SUPERGIRL
BRAINIAC GEORGE REEVE BIZARRO
SUPERBOY TOYMAN ACTION COMICS
CYBORG DAVID CHAPPELL JOHN HENRY
DR. EMIL HAMILTON BIBBO CADMUS
For an answer sheet send a stamped self-addressed envelope to:
Ken McKee
2113 Avenue I #22
Huntsville, TX 77340
========================================================
LETTERS
ÑÑÑ-
My responses below are indicated by indentation and beginning with ***.
**********
From: Steve Wells <wells_s@kosmos.wcc.govt.nz>
The company Jerry Siegal & Joe Shuster originally made Superman for
was National Allied Publications. NationalÕs first publication was
ÒNew Fun Comics #1Ó in February 1935. Jerry Siegel & Joe ShusterÕs first
printed work in a comic appeared in New Fun #6 with the 1st appearance
of Dr. Occult. They started writing short strips featuring Superman in
early 1933. The company ÒDetective ComicsÓ was created in early 1937,
almost immediately after ÒDetective Comics #1Ó was published. The first
new title that Detective Comics Inc. released, was Action Comics #1 in 1938.
In April 1941, the DC-Bullet first appears. This was when the abbreviation
DC was first used. The first comic published with this new symbol,
was Action Comics #23.
Superman was never printed by National, but was given to the Detective
Comics IncÕs Editor Vincent Sullivan, who printed it in Action Comics #1
as the main feature.
Superman #1 did indeed have 4 extra pages that were omitted from
Action Comics #1.
*** In addition, according to the text in Superman #423 (which I purchased
this weekend Ñ GREAT story!), SupermanÕs origin in Superman #1 was two
pages long, whereas the origin in Action Comics #1 was only one page
long. The lengthened origin included the first mention of the name
Krypton.
All information from the ÒBeyond Zero HourÓ DC-History from Wizard Press.
(Has a VERY in-depth look at DCÕs entire history complete with Time-line,
and Epilogue by John Byrne).
*** Thanks for the information, Steve! Considering the small size of our
staff Ñ not to mention the fact that KC has to come second to school or
employment for most of us Ñ we would be lost without the fact-checking
that is contributed by our readers!
**********
From: Jeff Solomon <jeffsolo@community.net>
*** Regarding Ken McKeeÕs article ÒIf I Had Only KnownÓ
I felt like I was reading a sample chapter from my own un-published
autobiography. Your article was excellent. I really enjoyed reading it.
I even printed a copy of it so the dealer that supplies me with my
weekly fix could read it too.
**********
From: Robert A. Rosenberg <hal9001@panix.com>
*** Regarding ZoomwayÕs review of ÒMadame ExÓ
In your article you have the following comment:
>I could think of was a quote from RHODAN: ÒI could feel my flesh crawling.Ó
>(RHODAN was better than The Rival)
>
Rhodan is the last name of German SF Hero Perry Rhodan (a long running pulp
series which was republished here in the US about 25 years ago by ACE and
Edited by Forest J. Ackerman). You are thinking of the Japanese
Pterodactyl/Monster Rodan (no ÒHÓ).
*** Oops. One of those fact-checking things... :)
**********
From: Marc Singer <marcs@wam.umd.edu>
Congratulations on another great issue of KRYPTONIAN CYBERNET.
This is just a quick dissenting view on the review of the Superman-Batman
team-up, ÒDark Knight Over Metropolis.Ó The reviewer didnÕt seem to like
the writing style of quick jumps from plot to plot, none of which were
resolved in that issue.
*** I canÕt speak for Mark, but my reading of the review was not that he
necessarily disliked the style, just that it was fairly confusing. As
far as I can remember, I thought it was confusing as well.
I have to disagree. I remember the writing as being *really* strong in the
Super-titles then, and ÒDark KnightÓ was some of the strongest. The device
of using little memos and newspaper articles to start each scene was really
interesting, and gave background information on how these super-heroesÕ
actions were felt by the real world. Also, you have to remember that this
was right when the Super-titles were first carrying stories from one issue
to the next Ñ no plots were resolved in Part 1 because the writers planned
to resolve a lot of them in the next 2 parts.
*** The writing was Jerry Ordway! Of course it was strong! :) But I agree
with your point that this was not meant to be the resolution of the
story.
Besides, look at this story! It arises from a long-developing plot (Morgan
Edge and Intergang), not a spontaneous marketing event; it uses the Super-
books rich wealth of supporting characters, like Adam Grant (RIP), Mannheim,
Gangbuster (whatever happened to *him*?), and even has an appearance by
Slam Bradley!; and it wasnÕt 22 pages of solid punching. I think the
current Super-books could use more quality like this.
*** Agreed on both parts. BTW, have you noticed the new promo ads for
Showcase Ô95? (Great Grummett art!) Gangbuster is in the ad! So
maybe he will be showing up soon Ñ for basically the first time since
ÒThe Legacy of Superman?Ó
And that Ordway art is great... I loved the way Blindspot barely stood out
from his surroundings.
Keep up the great work,
Marc
**********
From: Lee K. Seitz <lkseitz@seitz.b11.ingr.com>
>SUPERMAN AND POWER GIRL #56 ÒDeath in a Dark DimensionÓ
[SNIP]
>The story ends and we never find out how Superman and Power Girl return to
>their home planets. This left a rather weak conclusion but Curt SwanÕs
>Superman makes up for it. I did find it interesting that Power Girl was the
>cousin of Earth 2Õs Superman. Maybe readers of KC know of other stories
>where she has appeared.
I enjoyed the latest issue of KC, as usual. Keep it up! In
response to Ken McKeeÕs enquiry about Power Girl appearances. IÕm no
expert, but I do know she was part of the pre-Crisis Justice Society
(in modern times, not WWII) and fought beside her cousin, the Earth-2
Superman. She was basically a junior member and thus was not put on
trial with the rest of the JSA in AMERICA VS. THE JUSTICE SOCIETY nor
was she permitted to fight the perputual Ragnorak (sp?) in LAST DAYS
OF THE JUSTICE SOCIETY. I believe she also would have appeared in some
issues of INFINITY, INC.
*** I donÕt recall her in INFINITY, INC., but that doesnÕt mean she wasnÕt
there. Of course, post-Crisis, Kara (Power Girl) is not SupermanÕs
cousin Ñ she is the grandaughter (probably a ÒgreatÓ or two on that)
of Arion, so she is of Atlantean heritage. She currently resides in
the Justice League titles, particularly Justice League America.
Jeff
========================================================
COMING ATTRACTIONS
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ
A List of Upcoming Comics Featuring The Superman Family of Characters
Assembled by Jeffery D. Sykes
This monthly section is dedicated to giving you official information
concerning which comics you should watch for in the near future in order
to keep up with Superman, Superboy, Supergirl, and all the rest of the
Superman family of characters.
January Highlights:
Two new projects highlight the world of Superman this month. First, from
Dave Gibbons and Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez bring us a tale of a medieval Man of
Steel in SUPERMAN: KAL. And for those of you who long for the work of Jerry
Ordway, the former Superscribe/artist debuts the new ongoing monthly, THE POWER
OF SHAZAM! (So itÕs not Superman Ñ- itÕs da Ordster!! In the main titles,
MAN OF STEEL has more about the vampire story, Jurgens explores the mystery
of the ToymanÕs madness in SUPERMAN, Thorn returns to Metropolis in ADVENTURES,
and Mister Miracle guest stars in ACTION. Throughout the month, there are
hints of the buildup up to SUPERMAN #100!! SUPERBOY finally engages the
Silicon Dragons Ñ joining forces with several members of his rapidly expanding
rogues gallery Ñ and STEEL continues his journies in space with Maxima.
Finally, the Eradicator takes the lead story in SHOWCASE Ô95.
Rumors:
The word is out. Though I havenÕt read the issue, WIZARD reportedly
confirms the death of Clark Kent storyline. (Once again, in case you missed
it, the rumor is that ClarkÕs identity is discovered by Conduit, and the death
is the only recourse Superman can come up with.) I see great potential in
the storyline Ñ how Superman handles the discovery of his identity *could*
make for a fabulous storyline. If the writers handle it with the same quality
as ÒPanic in the Sky,Ó ÒFuneral for a Friend,Ó or ÒThe Reign of the Supermen,Ó
we are in for a treat. However, it could be another ÒFall of MetropolisÓ...
[Late addendum: Diamond Previews for NEXT month Ñ see the next Coming
Attractions in one week! Ñ also confirms the death of Clark Kent storyline
for Superman #100....Plus a little more Ñ STAY TUNED!]
The information which follows is reprinted without permission from Diamond
Previews and is in no way meant to serve as a replacement for that magazine.
In fact, I strongly recommend that each reader find his or her own copy for
additional detailed information on the entire DC Universe!
1. List of Titles by Shipping Date:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
Shipping date: Comic title and information:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑ- ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
November 15: Superboy #11
E. Berganza, Grummett, & Hazlewood
$1.50
Superman: The Man of Steel #40
L. Simonson, Bogdanove, & Janke
$1.50
November 22: The Guardians of Metropolis #3 (of 4)
K. Kesel, Dwyer, & Manley
$1.50
Superman #96
Jurgens & Breeding
$1.50
November 29: Adventures of Superman #519
K. Kesel, Kitson, & McCarthy
$1.50
Steel #11
L. Simonson, Batista, & Faber
$1.50
Xenobrood #3 (Superman)
Moench, Hunter, & Lowe
$1.50
December 6: Action Comics #706
Michelinie, Guice, & Rodier
$1.50
Anima #10 (Superboy)
Witcover & Hand, Crespo, & Blyberg
$1.50
Guy Gardner: Warrior #27 (Steel, Superman)
Beau Smith, Byrd, & D. Davis
$1.50
Metropolis S.C.U. #3 (of 4)
Goff, Krause, & Marzan Jr.
Cover by Abell & Guice
$1.50
Showcase Ô95 #1 (of 12)
Supergirl story
C. Moore, Immonen, & von Grawbadger
Cover by Grummett & Hazlewood
48 pgs, $2.50
December 13: Superboy #12
K. Kesel, Grummett, & D. Davis
$1.50
Superman: The Man of Steel #41
L. Simonson, Bogdanove, & Janson
$1.50
December 20: The Guardians of Metropolis #4 (of 4)
K. Kesel, Dwyer, & Manley
$1.50
Superman #97
Jurgens & Breeding
$1.50
December 27: Adventures of Superman #520
K. Kesel, Immonen, & Marzan, Jr.
$1.50
Steel #12
L. Simonson, Batista, & Faber
$1.50
Xenobrood #4 (Superman)
Moench, Hunter, & Lowe
$1.50
January 3: Action Comics #707
Michelinie, Guice, & Rodier
$1.50
Showcase Ô95 #2 (of 12)
Supergirl Story
C. Moore, Immonen, & von Grawbadger
48 pgs, $2.50
January 10: Metropolis S.C.U. #4 (of 4)
Goff, Krause, & Marzan, Jr.
Cover by Abell & Guice
$1.50
January 17: Superboy #13
WATERY GRAVE: Part 1 (of 3)
K. Kesel, Grummett, & Hazlewood
$1.50
Superman: Kal
Gibbons & Garcia-Lopez
Prestige Format
64 pgs, $5.95
Superman: The Man of Steel #42
L. Simonson, Bogdanove, & Janke
$1.50
January 24: Superman #98
Jurgens & Breeding
$1.50
January 31: Adventures of Superman #521
K. Kesel, Immonen, & Marzan Jr.
$1.50
Steel #13
L. Simonson, Batista, & Faber
$1.50
February 7: Action Comics #708
Michelinie, Guice, & Rodier
$1.50
Showcase Ô95 #3 (of 12)
Eradicator Story
K. Kesel (no info on art)
48 pgs, $2.50
2. Merchandise:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
For more information on how to find these items, consult your local comic
shop dealer.
Superman Vinyl Kit
From Horizon
Finally! A detailed vinyl casting of the one, true Man of Steel (as
variously rendered inages past by the likes of Curt Swan, Neal Adams,
and John Byrne), expertly sculpted and produced by the talented
artisans who brought the Marvel Universe to life in plastic! This
particular Metropolis Marvel stands nearly 12Ó tall when fully
assembled. Ships unpainted and unassembled in an illustrated
collectors box.
$55.00
Superman: Chromart Classic Covers Collection
From Third Planet
This is a boxed set of classic Superman covers, reproduced as chromium
art prints. Contains reproductions of Action #1, Superman #1,
Superman #11, and Superman #32.
Set...$49.99
Superman: Super Patch T-Shirt
From Graphitti Designs
Superman Classic, featured in full-color on the back of a maroon, 100%
cotton t-shirt. On the front: a small version of the Superman logo
situated over the left chest.
L-XL...$17.95
Superman Watches
From M.Z. Berger Company of Long Island, New York
Choose from two different watches, each packaged in an attractive,
full-color, Superman S shield-shaped presentation box: watch with
embossed band (rubberized band features colorful embossed Superman
images; watch face features the Superman S symbol); or watch with
rotating disc (rotating second hand disc features the words ÒItÕs a
bird, itÕs a plane, itÕs Superman;Ó available with either a black or
brown band each accented with a gold-toned S shield).
Superman watch w/embossed band...$24.95
Superman watch w/rotating disc black band...$25.95
Superman watch w/rotating disc brown band...$26.95
More merchandising addresses (thanks to Ken McKee for the info):
Silk ties, scarves, vests: Polyvinyl die-cut wall decor:
Leeds Neckwear, Inc. Universal Heights, Inc.
55 Administration Road 19589 N.E. 10th Avenue
Unit 21 North Miami Beach, FL 33179
Concord, Ontario L4K 1Y6
Superman Lives! audio dramatization of the death and return comic book story:
Time Warner Audiobooks
9229 Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90069
Greeting cards, gift wrapper, paper party goods, stickers, valentines:
American Greetings
10500 American Road
Cleveland, OH 44144-2398
Paper engineered 3-dimensional greeting cards (I got one of
Superman for my birthday and it is GREAT!):
Pop Shots
735 Post Road East
Westport, CT 06880
Misc Superman items (I visited a Warner Brothers store and picked
up some nice inexpensive items):
Warner Brothers Studio Store
P.O. Box 60048
Tampa, FL 33660-0048
1-800-223-6524
Superman Buttons (2-1/4Ó in diameter):
Button Exchange LTD
200 Diversion
Ste. G11
Rochester, MI 48307
3. Spoilers:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑ
January 17:
ÑÑÑÑÑ
Superboy #13
WATERY GRAVE: Part 1 of 3 Ñ ItÕs a suicide mission when Superboy is
forced to join forces with Knockout, King Shark, Deadshot, Sidearm, and
Captain Boomerang for an all-out war with the Silicon Dragons.
Superman: Kal
The latest ELSEWORLDS vision of the Man of Steel begins when the
spacecraft carrying KryptonÕs sole survivor lands in Medieval England.
Raised as a blacksmith in the oppressed village of Lexford, young Kal
becomes the heart of a rebellion against Baron Luthor Ñ a tyrant
whose all-powerful armor was forged from the metal of the ship that
bore Kal to Earth. Writer Dave Gibbons (WORLDÕS FINEST miniseries)
and artist Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez (TWILIGHT, CINDER AND ASHE) brings
this tale of a valorous heroÕs struggle against his evil adversary Ñ
in which the familiar Superman shield has become the standard of the
enemy.
Superman: The Man of Steel #42
The mysterious ÔLock holds the solution to BabeÕs vampirism. But
neither the cure nor Superman may come in time to save Jimmy Olsen from
being BabeÕs latest victim. Plus, more is revealed about Perry WhiteÕs
adoption of Keith.
January 24:
ÑÑÑÑÑ
Superman #98
Superman at last learns the secret truth behind the ToymanÕs madness.
Plus, the mysterious Shadow-Strike is sighted in Metropolis once again.
January 31:
ÑÑÑÑÑ
Adventures of Superman #521
Thorn returns to Metropolis, just in time to help Superman *and* the
Riot Grrrls. Plus, more is revealed about the enigmatic Shadow-Dragon
and his sinister connection to one of the Man of SteelÕs deadliest
foes.
Steel #13
Steel must rescue Maxima when an evil alien reveals unpleasant plans
for her. But Maxima doesnÕt want SteelÕs help, and unless the two of
them work together, neither may see Earth again.
February 7:
ÑÑÑÑÑ
Action Comics #708
Mister Miracle of the New Gods guest-stars when Deathtrap returns, and
the villain has upped the stakes in an effort to ÒcontainÓ the Man of
Steel. Plus, one of SupermanÕs deadliest foes escapes from prison.
Showcase Ô95 #3 (of 12)
When the Eradicator takes on a group of super-powered terrorists, itÕs
with all the deadly force he can muster. But one hostage with a
shocking connection to the Eradicator may change that Ñ and the
hero Ñ forever. This self-contained story is written by Karl Kesel.
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End of Issue #7
