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The Kryptonian Cybernet Issue 12
THE KRYPTONIAN CYBERNET - ISSUE #12 - APRIL 1995
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
News from KC, the comics, and Hollywood
With a Little Help from my Friends...
Bibbo Bibbowski!, by Denes House
Not a Fleischer Cartoon
A Private Snafu cartoon - Episode 10, ÒSnafupermanÓ
by Neil A. Ottenstein
A New KC Contest!!!
Win an autographed comic!
Section 2: Just the FAQs
ÒWho knows SupermanÕs secret identity?Ó
by David T. Chappell
Section 3: Reviews
The Triangle Titles
Superman: The Man of Steel #44, by Anatole Wilson
Superman #100, by Arthur LaMarche
Adventures of Superman #523, by Patrick Stout
Action Comics #710, by William Nixon
Other Super-Titles
Superboy #15, by Victor Chan
Section 4: Reviews
Other Super-Titles (cont)
Steel #15, by Dick Sidbury
Showcase Ô95 #4, by ReneÕ Gobeyn
The New Titans #121, by ReneÕ Gobeyn
Annuals and Special Appearances
Superman: The Man of Steel Annual #4, by Anatole Wilson
Primal Force #7, by ReneÕ Gobeyn
Guy Gardner: Warrior #31, by Jeff Sykes
Section 5: Looking Back
AfterByrne: Post-Crisis Reviews
Panic In the Sky
Final Strike and Epilogue, by Jeff Sykes
Legacies: Pre-Crisis Reviews
The Silver Age Superman
SupermanÕs Return to Krypton Part 2, by Bill Morse
Clark Kent Ñ Lost or Stolen
A review of a serial running from Action #371 through
Action #374, by Jon Knutson
Section 6: Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman
Up, Up, and Coming
News and Notes, by Jeff Sykes and Jennifer L. Traver
Schism of Cosmic and Comic Proportions
Notes on Lois and ClarkÕs comic and television
relationship, by Zoomway
And Who Disguised As...
A few moments with Superman, by J.D. Rummel
Episode Reviews:
ÒThat Old Gang of Mine,Ó by Sriya C. Sampath
Section 7: More Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman!
Episode Reviews (cont.):
ÒMetallo,Ó by Marta Olson
ÒThe Phoenix,Ó by Jennifer Traver
Coming Attractions
Section 8: Answers to Super-Crossword #6
Resources
Classifieds
The Mailbag
EDITORIAL STAFF:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
Jeffery D. Sykes, Editor-in-chief
Arthur E. LaMarche, Reviews
Jennifer L. Traver, Lois & Clark
Victor Chan Donald MacPherson
Pat Gonzales Ken McKee
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 to subscribe, send
the commands
subscribe kc [<address>]
end
in the body of an e-mail message to Òlists@phoenix.creighton.eduÓ (without
the quotation marks). The address field need not be used when the address
being subscribed is the same as that from which the request is being sent.
The program ignores the subject line of the message.
Back issues are available via ftp Ñ see the resources section.
===================================================
SUPERSCRIPTS: Notes from the Editor
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KC News:
We plan on reinstating THE SCU FILES next issue, and a few people have
expressed an interest in writing the column. If youÕd like a shot at
the column, you need to get in touch with me soon!
DonÕt forget that our classified section has been running for a few
months now. If you have any Superman merchandise for sale or that
you are looking for, drop us a line. Information on placing ads is
with the classifieds.
Finally, we have a few positions open for monthly reviews, including
one of the four Superman titles! We are also looking for people to
review the occasional crossovers and related miniseries (such as this
monthÕs LOOSE CANNON miniseries and future Elseworlds stories), as
well as people to serve as panel reviewers. Remember that panelists
should be willing to send us ratings (out of 5 shields) and brief
comments about any Superman book or appearance that they read.
If you wish to participate in the magazine in any of these ways, or
if you have suggestions for new regular columns or ideas for a one-
time article, let us know! You may contact me at sykes@ms.uky.edu
(or by simply replying to the issue Ñ if you are reading this on
either a newsgroup or the mailing list), Art LaMarche at
Arthur.E.LaMarche@Dartmouth.edu, or the magazine at KryptonCN@aol.com.
Hope to hear from you!
Comics News:
A recent issue of Comic Shop News reported some news about DCÕs plans
for later this year. Quite a few SPOILERS follow Ñ the first few
items are about upcoming projects, but the later items contain info
about the stories ahead for the monthly issues. If you do not wish
to read this information, I will give a spoiler warning when I get
there!
George Perez will be writing a DC/Marvel crossover meeting between
Superman and Silver Surfer. The book will be illustrated by Ron Lim
and Terry Austin.
Tom Veitch and Frank Gomez feature an adventure of the post-apocalyptic
Elseworlds Superman first seen in KAMANDI: AT EARTHÕS END. In SUPERMAN:
AT EARTHÕS END, Supes is trying to preserve the legacy of the legendary
Batman.
The New Titans series will end with issue #130 when Marv Wolfman quits
the title. There will be at least a few months with no New Titans title,
but a completely revamped Titans may then resurface Ñ Dan Jurgens has
reportedly expressed an interest in such a revival. This information
comes via a report from a DC Panel at the New York Con last month.
Ron Frenz *will* be the new regular penciller on SUPERMAN (probably
beginning with issue #104 or #105), and Kieron Dwyer is the new regular
penciller of ACTION COMICS (beginning with issue #712).
SPOILERS!
Here comes the info about stories happening later this year!
S
S
U
P
P
O
E
I
R
L
M
E
A
R
N
S
Later this year, the Superman titles will feature a storyline depicting
the trial and conviction of Superman by an intergalactic court for the
destruction of Krypton [DidnÕt they do this on Buck Rogers? ÑJeff];
before itÕs over, the Man of Steel will be imprisoned in the heart of
the nebula that was once Krypton, where he must be aided by a rescue
squad consisting of Steel, Superboy, the Eradicator, Supergirl, and
Alpha Centurion [Remember the Zero Hour issues?]... Lori Lemaris is
returning in another Superman story arc, jeopardizing the Man of SteelÕs
engagement to Lois Lane.
The Legion of Super-Heroes comes back to the 20th Century to meet
Superboy Ñ but what they find isnÕt exactly what they expected; this
storyline will run through SUPERBOY, LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES, and
LEGIONNAIRES, and will also take Superboy into the future world of
the Legion... [not permanently I hope!] The crossover begins to be
hinted at in Superboy #17 and picks up for the Legion books with LEGION
OF SUPER-HEROES #74 at the end of the summer.
Hollywood/Other-Media News:
Not really any news to report this month. Lois and Clark continues
to do well as its second season winds down. Reports of a cliffhanger
season finale have begun to surface, so renewal may be just around
the corner! For more information on the final three episodes of the
season, check out the Lois & Clark section.
Enjoy the new issue! And remember, we hope to give you some gems from
Mike Carlin next month!
Jeff Sykes
sykes@ms.uky.edu
===================================================
ÒWITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS...Ó
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a column about the supporting cast in the Superman family of books
by Denes House (dhouse@itsmail1.hamilton.edu)
Last monthÕs column dealt with the most important supporting characters in
the Superman universe, Ma and Pa Kent. This month, I will discuss one of the
most endearing characters in the Superman mythos.
==============
MR. BIBBOWSKI
a.k.a. ÒBibboÓ
In book two of Frank MillerÕs influential 1986 miniseries ÒBatman: The Dark
Knight Returns,Ó there is a small vignette that takes my breath away every
time I read it. In just four panels, Miller accomplishes a characterization
coup, showing the reader the subtle effects of the BatmanÕs return on the
general populace. Here are the captions: ÒA devout Catholic, Peppi Spandeck
canÕt say he approves of this Batman. And when he hears the woman scream down
the street, he knows he should be afraid. Instead, heÕs looking at the alarm
system that cost him two monthsÕ profits and the iron bars over his windows
that make his beautiful shop look like a prison... He can feel his pulse, just
below his ears. He knows heÕs gone crazy. But the mugger is running, afraid.
Afraid of Peppi. Nobody is hurt badly enough for this to make the news.Ó
The character of Bibbo fulfills a similar role in the Superman comics. He is
the ordinary, average guy who reflects the subtle influence of Superman on the
world. Most of SupermanÕs supporting cast are unusual: well-paid reporters,
people at the top of their field. Bibbo is Bibbo. Bibbo is a normal guy,
despite the abnormal things that happen to him. And Bibbo shows us just what
it is that we like about the Superman mythos.
BibboÕs past is difficult to piece together. We know that he was probably a
prize-fighter, spent some time Òin da hoosegow,Ó worked on the docks, and
drank like a fish. Bibbo lives in Suicide Slum, the most visibly nasty part
of Metropolis. Early on, Superman earned BibboÕs respect by being tougher
than he was. SupermanÕs early interactions with Bibbo proved that he was more
than just a costumed clown, but was a standup guy. This respect carried over
to SupermanÕs friend, Jimmy Olsen. Bibbo took to wearing a shirt proclaiming
himself ÒSupermanÕs Pal,Ó and he will declare, at the drop of a hat, that
SupermanÕs his ÒfavÕrit.Ó
Through repeated run-ins with unusual circumstances, Bibbo remains the same
lovable pug. He has encountered Lobo [1], Plastic Man [2], Blindspot [3], the
Atomic Skull [4], and many other absurd characters, and never been fazed at
all [2]. Bibbo won $14 million in the lottery on a ticket that accidentally
blew out of a down-on-his-luck Jose DelgadoÕs pocket [5], but even this did
not change him substantially. He bought his favorite (er, favÕrit) bar, the
Ace OÕ Clubs [2], but the money did not make him greedy or conceited. Rather,
it brought out more clearly an inherent generosity and good will.
Bibbo has made friends of many Superman supporting cast members, including
Jimmy Olsen, Professor Emil Hamilton, and Mildred Krantz. Jose Delgado and
Cat Grant have been known to stop by the Ace OÕ Clubs, where they often dance
to the ÒhepÓ tunes of Professor HamiltonÕs piano rag.
Through his newly-found fortune, Bibbo has been able to throw lavish
Thanksgiving feasts for the residents of Suicide Slum [6], house a homeless
Jimmy Olsen [6], donate Christmas gifts to orphans [7], buy all of a homeless
vendorÕs ÒDeath of SupermanÓ t-shirts to enable him to pay respects to the
Man of Steel [8], help reunite a teen with his family [9], and become the
strangest, but perhaps the most faithful of the men who carried SupermanÕs
name during ÒThe Reign of the Supermen.Ó [10]
It is the latter incident on which I wish to focus, as it most clearly
illustrates the impact of Superman on his universe of characters. In the
wake of SupermanÕs death [11], Bibbo committed himself to helping everyone
that he could, in memory of the fallen hero. Donning a Superman T-shirt,
red shorts and tights, Bibbo identified himself closely with Superman,
particularly SupermanÕs generosity and willingness to help everyone in need.
It is apparent that Bibbo seeks to emulate these things, at least in part
because of Superman. Like Peppi Spandeck and Batman, Bibbo is subtly
influenced by the presence of Superman. I think that this is also one of the
reasons I like Superman. I am influenced for the good by identifying with
him. Through this incident, Bibbo was also instrumental in introducing
Krypto to the post-Crisis DC Universe. [12]
BibboÕs prayer after SupermanÕs death stands out as one of the most touching
parts of the ÒFuneral for a FriendÓ storyline. [13] And BibboÕs comment while
helping the resuscitation efforts by holding the supercharged defibrillators
provided by Professor Hamilton is also poignant: ÒNo oneÕs going to miss a pug
like me if things go bad.Ó [14] Not true. Bibbo helps illustrate why Superman
is so important, both to his world and to ours.
FOOTNOTES
=========
[1] Superman #41.
[2] Action Comics #661 - See especially Jimmy OlsenÕs comment on BibboÕs
unflappability.
[3] Adventures of Superman # 483.
[4] Man Of Steel #5.
[5] Superman #51, Action Comics #661.
[6] Action Comics #673.
[7] Adventures of Superman #487.
[8] Man of Steel #20.
[9] Superman #76.
[10] Action Comics #687.
[11] Sorry, I couldnÕt resist the pun.
[12] Adventures of Superman #501-502.
[13] Action Comics #685. This prayer is second only to the funeral held by
Ma and Pa in its potency.
[14] Adventures of Superman #498.
===================================================
NOT A FLEISCHER CARTOON:
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by Neil A. Ottenstein
A Private Snafu cartoon
Episode 10: ÒSnafupermanÓ
Released: March 1944
Running Time: 4:32 minutes
Directed by Friz Freleng
The cartoon starts off with our Òhero,Ó Private Snafu, drumming on his
helmet and other items much to the annoyance of other soldiers in the
barracks. They complain about the noise. One of them is studying his
field manual. Snafu responds with, ÒStudy, nuts... I ainÕt going to
clank them on the head with no books.Ó A technical fairy, first class,
appears with a ÒHello, Superman.Ó Snafu replies, ÒWell, if I was
Superman, I bet you IÕd show them plenty.Ó The technical fairy
declares, ÒI now pronounce you, Snafuperman.Ó The Superman music
sounds, similarly to when Clark changes to Superman, and Private Snafu
now has a cape and costume with a Superman-style S on his chest. He
shouts, ÒEnemies of democracy, beware!Ó
Seeing a bomb about to be loaded on a plane, he decides to personally
deliver it. As he is leaving with the bomb he is told that he forgot
his navigational maps, but only answers back with, ÒIÕm not bombing
Berlin with maps this season.Ó He flies on, spots his target and drops
the bomb. Moments later the technical fairy has appeared with the bomb
and points out the White House below, Òthe Americans are on our side,
you know.Ó
Flying (more like swimming in the air) he spots a tanks, and thinking
that it is Japanese, he peels open the top only to reveal an American
general - oops! He now spots Òa mess of MesserschmittsÓ attacking a
nearby port. He flies in to attempt to save the day. He catches the
bombs and puts them down in a pile, declaring, ÒThere, as harmless as a
burnt out match.Ó We see the timers inside the bombs moments before
they explode.
The final scene has the injured Snafuperman/Private Snafu in the
hospital. The technical fairy appears saying, ÒToo bad, Superman. Is
there anything I could do for you?Ó Snafu ends the cartoon asking him,
ÒGet me a field manual!Ó
This being April, I decided to summarize this Superman takeoff from ÒThe
Complete Uncensored Private Snafu Cartoons from W.W. IIÓ collection.
The Private Snafu cartoons were included in ÒThe Army-Navy Screen
MagazineÓ for American soldiers and were all in black-and-white. They
were written by Ted Geisel (aka Dr. Seuss) and Phil Eastman. The series
covers a variety of subjects which they wanted to impress upon the
soldiers through the humorous mishaps of Private Snafu. Some other
titles included ÒSpies,Ó ÒGripes,Ó ÒThe Goldbrick,Ó and ÒBooby Traps.Ó
The cartoons feature the voice talents of Mel Blanc and for the time
were quite risque. The Snafu cartoons that I have seen are quite
entertaining. They were designed to make a point and do so in a
humorous fashion without being heavy handed.
This ÒSnafupermanÓ presents us with the ÒWhat If?Ó scenario of Superman
fighting in WWII but with the twist of him being an idiot. In recent
years there have been times when I have been amazed at how stupid
Superman has been written in some comic book plots, but he never
could be ÒSnafuperman.Ó If you want to taste a bit of history, or just
be entertained you could do yourself a good turn by taking a look at the
Private Snafu cartoons.
The two Private Snafu cartoon volumes are available 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
===================================================
KC CONTEST!!!
ÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
Okay trivia fans, IÕm gonna make you work for this one! YouÕre going to
have to dig up both some pre-Crisis *and* some post-Crisis info...
Who can tell me...
What comics (title and issue) featured
1. the first appearance and origin (they were in the same issue)
of Kara Zor-El, the pre-Byrne Supergirl?
2. the death of Kara?
3. the first appearance of Matrix, the post-Byrne Supergirl?
One winner will be randomly selected from all correct entries to receive
a copy of SUPERGIRL #1 (the 1994 miniseries) autographed by its author,
Roger Stern!
Again, since (what some would consider) a valuable prize is involved, all
KC contributors and editors other than myself *are* eligible for the contest.
You have until Friday, May 5, to send me your entries. All entries must
be sent either to me (sykes@ms.uky.edu) or to the magazineÕs address
(KryptonCN@aol.com). LetÕs see how many of you can get this one right!
Jeff
===================================================
End of Section 1
===================================================
JUST THE FAQs
More Details about Frequently-Asked Questions about the Man of Steel
by David T. Chappell
One of the most important aspects of Superman is his secret identity. In
pre-Crisis years, it formed a prime basis for subplots as Clark had to
continually struggle to prevent Lois and others from discerning his secret
ID. In the post-Crisis revision of the legend, there are more logical
explanations that keep people from suspecting ClarkÕs dual life (see my
column in last monthÕs issue of the KRYPTONIAN CYBERNET). Moreover, the
importance of the secret identity has flip-flopped as Clark is the real
person and the costumed identity forms the ÒFortress of SolitudeÓ for the
real man to hide behind (MAN OF STEEL #1).
Recently, the hoopla about the Death of Clark Kent has lead to
reevaluations of SupermanÕs two lives. The writers are re-emphasizing the
importance of Clark Kent, and fans (especially on Internet) are discussing
the secret identity point.
Before I delve further into the issue of SupermanÕs secret identity, I
would like to put forth a call for questions. If you have a suggestion on
future questions this column should cover, submit them via e-mail to
davidc@leland.stanford.edu. If I use a readerÕs proposal, IÕll mention the
name of the original inquirer.
Last issue, I covered the question of why no one has discerned the
connection between Clark and Superman. In truth, several people do know the
secret, and many readers may be surprised at the large number of people who
know. Thus, as promised, itÕs time to ask
ÒWho knows SupermanÕs secret identity?Ó
If youÕd asked this question two decades ago, the answer would have
been simple. Nearly all fellow super-heroes knew the truth, for the JLA
then acted like a hero club with most members knowing each otherÕs
identities. One of the few civilians privy to the secret was Pete Ross.
One night while on a camping trip, Pete witnessed Clark changing into
Superboy. Lois Lane always suspected the connection between Clark and Kal-
El, but she never managed to find the evidence she needed to support her
case. However, these stories are all from the pre-Crisis days and are
mostly invalid.
In the post-Crisis era, the number of confidants is much smaller. Most
other super-heroes are kept in the dark, including the aforementioned
Justice League. In the modern legend, there never was a Superboy, so Pete
Ross never witnessed ClarkÕs change and does not know the connection.
Instead, Clark has chosen to reveal the secret to several of his sweethearts
and close friends. Others have garnered the knowledge through their powers
or detective abilities. Though the list of those in the know continues to
grow slowly, it is only recently that a powerful enemy has learnedÑand
acceptedÑthe truth. In rough chronological order, I below present a list
of most of these lucky few.
As I discussed last issue, the general public does not even realize
that Superman has a secret identity. When asked where he thought Superman
Ògoes to get away from it all,Ó a Metropolis taxi-driver revealed his
suspicions that he has Òa fancy hideaway somewhere Ôway up in the mountains!
. . . A place where he can really party down!Ó (ACTION #650, Feb.90) In an
interview with COMICS VALUES MONTHLY, John Byrne remarked that when
redefining Superman he decided that the Man of Steel had never Òbeen stupid
enoughÓ to admit to having a secret identity.
Perhaps the most important confidants are ClarkÕs parents. Martha and
Jonathan Kent clearly know the truth about their adopted son, and they
intervene to help him keep his cover when they can. More importantly, their
survival greatly aids their son (in the pre-Crisis version, they died before
Clark became an adult) by giving him someone to whom he can talk and from
whom he can seek advice in times of trouble. Being able to confide in them
has often helped Clark cope with and even solve problems, and their good
example probably led to ClarkÕs deciding to confide in others in later
years.
The Kents were not the only ones to witness the landing of Kal-ElÕs
birthing matrix, however. As explained in the Millennium crossover, the
Manhunters knew that a Kryptonian ship delivered a baby to Earth, and they
tried to intercept the youngster. Though they did not capture Kal-El, the
Manhunters used their knowledge to implement a long-term plan that came to
fruition during the Millennium. (circa SUPERMAN #13; WORLD OF SMALLVILLE)
Furthermore, a terrestrial scientist saw the rocketÕs landing. Professor
Emmett Vale had delusions of imminent alien invasions, and his paranoia led
to his creating Metallo to defeat the super-hero whom he saw as an extra-
terrestrial scout. (SUPERMAN #1, Jan.87) Luckily, the Manhunters were
defeated during the Millennium, and Prof. Vale took the secret to his grave
when Metallo killed his creator.
Several years passed before anyone else learned about the young
KryptonianÕs powers. In ClarkÕs senior year of high school, Jonathan Kent
told his son about his rocket-ship origin. After accepting the
responsibility that accompanies his super-human capabilities, Clark revealed
his powers to his girlfriend, Lana Lang, just before he left Smallville.
(MAN OF STEEL #6) Lana was shocked and dismayed when Clark left her after
entrusting her. Soon after SupermanÕs public debut, Lana began following
the Man of SteelÕs appearances for years. (SUPERMAN #2, Feb.87) While
under the ManhuntersÕ control, Lana accused Clark of being Superman. In the
Daily Planet newsroom, she ripped open ClarkÕs shirt, but luckily he was not
wearing his costume underneath. However, everyone dismissed the incident as
a crazy stunt. (SUPERMAN #13, Jan.88) Lana has now come to terms with her
relationship to Clark, and she has gone on to lead a normal life and marry
Pete Ross. She now joins the Kents as a close friend whom Clark can
approach for solace.
A few years later, another beautiful girl earned a place in ClarkÕs
heart. Lori Lemaris, ClarkÕs mermaid girlfriend, was among those who used
her powers to learn of his powers. When they met at the University of
Metropolis, Clark had not yet taken his super-hero identity, but LoriÕs
telepathy revealed his super-human abilities. Even if she did not quickly
deduce the identity of Superman when he first appeared publicly, Clark did
not hesitate in revealing his secret when her life was in danger. (SUPERMAN
#12, Dec.87) Though Clark believes that Lori died several years ago, the
mermaid actually lives on, and rumors speak of her impending return to the
comic.
The next important person to uncover the secret was not as friendly as
Lori. Amanda McCoy, a scientist in LuthorÕs employ, figured out ClarkÕs
secret identity after much detective work and a computer analysis. Despite
the logic (and truth) of her conclusion, however, no one believed her.
Luthor immediately dismissed the idea and insisted Òthat no man with the
power of Superman would ever pretend to be a mere human!Ó (SUPERMAN #2)
After being fired by Lex, Amanda wandered for a while and made occasional
appearances in the Superman books. She led to several subplots; for
example, the death of a detective she sent to ClarkÕs apartment was mistaken
for ClarkÕs death while Superman exiled himself to outer space. Ms. McCoyÕs
obsession and desire for revenge on Clark led to her eventual death, and she
is thus unable to share her knowledge.
In addition, several supernatural personages know about KentÕs second
life through the knowledge their powers bring. The mystical Phantom
Stranger has used this information to summon SupermanÕs help, explaining
himself with a typically obscure comment: ÒThe mortal world holds few
things secret from me.Ó (ACTION #585, Feb.87) Later, Superman did not
bother to hide his identity from the Spectre, but the magical spirit
probably already knew the facts. (ACTION #596, Jan.88) The Black Racer, a
messenger with connections to the New Gods, led Superman in his rescue of
his friendsÕ souls in Soul Search. When he first met Clark at JimmyÕs
bedside, he explained, ÒNo secrets are hidden from the Black Racer.Ó
(ACTION #656, Aug.90) Dr. Occult also ranks among the magical allies in the
know, and he has similarly used his knowledge to benefit Clark. There are
other supernatural beings, such as Kismet, who also share this knowledge.
While several super-beings used magic to learn the secret, Batman ranks
among those who uncovered it via pure detective work. After recovering his
motherÕs scrapbook from its theft by McCoy and LuthorÕs thugs, Superman
passed it on to Batman for analysis. In their subsequent meeting, Batman
revealed that all he could learn from the collection of newspaper clippings
was that Clark Kent is Superman. Though surprised at hearing the report,
Superman also used his super-senses to uncover BatmanÕs identity as Bruce
Wayne, and the two now share a loose friendship. (ADVENTURES #440, May 88)
It is unclear, however, whether Batman told Robin or kept the secret from
his junior partner.
Other super-heroes who share ClarkÕs secret learned it in different
ways. After their initial meeting during the Legends affair, physical
attraction and the media sparked a brief glimmer of romance between Superman
and Wonder Woman. Clark revealed his identity to Princess Diana when they
met to uncover their true feelings. (ACTION #600, May 88) Though their
romance never developed, the two share a friendship and confidence different
from SupermanÕs relationship to most fellow heroes.
The circumstances that followed her arrival on Earth led Supergirl to
also know the truth. After the final battle in the Pocket Universe,
Superman brought the defeated Matrix back to Earth and left her with his
parents. The Kents raised ÒMaeÓ as their daughter, and she slowly adopted a
twisted personality of Clark & Superman. After the real Superman confronted
her, she left Earth to come to terms with her individuality. (circa ACTION
#644, Aug.89) Matrix eventually returned to Earth and has resumed her
Supergirl identity. While Superman feared that she might reveal his secret
to her lover Lex Luthor, Supergirl has always had the best intentions for
keeping her friendÕs precious secret.
Another super-being with confidential knowledge of Superman is the
Eradicator. Throughout its various incarnations as an artifact, the Krypton
Man, and one of the replacement Supermen, the Eradicator has struggled to
maintain Kryptonian civilization. Its Kryptonian heritage brought the
Eradicator enough of a mental link to unveil ClarkÕs secret, and even the
EradicatorÕs current merged-personality form probably knows about Clark Kent.
After years of interpersonal struggle, a major victory for Clark led to
still another confidant. Lois Lane came close to uncovering the truth on
her own several times by combining logic and odd facts. The first time
occurred as Lois was investigating the ManhuntersÕ actions in Smallville
during the Millennium (ACTION #597, Feb.88). Later, simple musing on the
past nearly led her to solve the puzzle (ACTION #650). After they became
engaged, Clark struggled to decide whether and how to share his secret. He
finally revealed his identity to a shocked fiancee. (ACTION #662, Feb.91).
Lois eventually accepted her engagement to Superman, and she now works to
support Clark and cover his odd disappearances. As an aside, it seems an
odd coincidenceÑand I doubt that it is anything moreÑthat these three
occasions have all been in February issues of ACTION COMICS.
Several time travelers have also seen through ClarkÕs disguise. The
original Waverider could not fail but notice his secret while observing
SupermanÕs possible futures during the Armageddon 2001 series. In addition,
the near-omniscience of the Linear Men probably led them to know about
ClarkÕs powers. The non-interference policy of the Linear Men kept
SupermanÕs secret safe with them, and only two of them survived Zero Hour.
In addition to the Eradicator, two other ÒreplacementsÓ from the Reign
of the Supermen may be privy to ClarkÕs secret. The most dangerous of these
is the Cyborg Superman. When trying to convince Miss Lane of his being the
real Superman, Henshaw said, ÒI remember a farm . . . in Kansas. The name
. . . Kent . . .Ó (SUPERMAN #78, Jun.93) The Cyborg could have scavenged
these scattered facts from the birthing matrix that also provided the
Kryptonian genetic code from which Henshaw grew his cyborg body.
Alternatively, the Cyborg could have gathered the data when he took over
EarthÕs entire communications network. (ADVENTURES #468, Jul.90) While the
Cyborg knows enough facts to sway Lois, it remains unclear whether his
deranged mind has actually fit the pieces together to solve the puzzle.
The Boy of Steel is another ÒSupermanÓ who potentially holds the
secret. While the Superboy from the Pocket Universe certainly knew about
Clark Kent, there are subtle hints that the modern Superboy may also know
the truth. When the Metropolis Kid first met Lois Lane, he tried to
convince her of his being a clone of Superman. Finally, he slicked his hear
back and put on glasses, a move that stunned Lois into almost believing him.
(ADVENTURES #501, LJune93) Soon thereafter, Superboy thought it was Òtoo
coolÓ that he could move into Clark KentÕs vacated apartment. (ADVENTURES
#502, July 93) These could be mere coincidences and storytelling gimmicks,
or they could originate from the Òmental impressionsÓ from Superman that
Dubbilex implanted in the clone. (ACTION #686, Feb.93) The latter view
calls into question whether Dubbilex knows ClarkÕs secret or the information
came from SupermanÕs subconscious. Only time and further revelations about
SuperboyÕs origin can reveal how much he really knows.
Another Superman clone definitely has the knowledge. The second
Bizarro creature seemed to inherit some of SupermanÕs memories along with
his powers. The many mementos and trophies in his ÒBizarro WorldÓ
demonstrated knowledge of both of SupermanÕs lives. In one shocking scene,
he revealed the extent of such knowledge when he donned a pair of glasses
and a coat and tie and took Lois to work at his version of the ÒDay-lee
Plan-nut.Ó The false Clark entered a ÒtellyfoanÓ booth before changing into
his Superman identity. BizarroÕs tragic death at the end of the story
prevents him from sharing his knowledge with others. (ADVENTURES #510,
Mar.94)
Still another major nemesis recently had an opportunity to learn the
secret. During his battle with Superman at the climax of Dead Again,
Brainiac brought out many of ClarkÕs thoughts about his parents and his real
identity. (SUPERMAN #96, Jan.95) If Brainiac controlledÑor even viewedÑ
SupermanÕs visions, then he could readily know about SupermanÕs being Clark
Kent. Even aside from those visions, Brainiac has demonstrated that his
power is great enough that he probably could know about the secret identity
if he chose to mentally probe Superman enough.
Now the dual identity issue culminates with another major villain
uncovering the secret. The case has grown slowly over the past several
months, starting with ShadowdragonÕs theft of S.T.A.R. LabsÕ files on
Superman (SUPERMAN #97, Feb.95). It is unclear whether Shadowdragon
analyzed the data enough to learn the secret, and it is equally mysterious
how the seemingly honorable thief would use such knowledge if he possessed
it. Prince Bandu did, however, choose to pass the computer data to Conduit
(ADVENTURES #521, Mar.95). As an enemy of both Clark Kent (from their
childhood days in Smallville) and Superman (from their super-powered adult
lives), Conduit has the motive and the means to use his information as a
weapon against Clark. The Death of Superman shows the results of his
assault on his arch-enemy. If he follows the trend of past villains who
uncovered the truth about Clark, Kenny will wind up visiting Blaze before
long.
Subtle clues may reveal more about the information possessed by
S.T.A.R., Shadowdragon, and Conduit. Even as he escaped from StrykerÕs
Island, Kenny gloated over his imminent revenge on Clark Kent, thus implying
that he already knew the filesÕ contents before analyzing them. I thus
suspect that Shadowdragon did reach the conclusion before deciding to whom
he should give the data. The source of the information also calls into
question the contents of the significant disk: does it contain the answer
as discerned by a S.T.A.R. Lab scientist, or does it merely have enough
evidence to support the case against Clark for one who already suspects?
The data probably comes from the detailed analyses Professor Hamilton ran on
Superman at S.T.A.R. Labs during the Dead Again story line. (MAN OF STEEL
#39, Dec.94) Though the data on the fake body faded when Superman defeated
Brainiac, even the S.T.A.R. scientists realized the potential danger of the
data on the real Kryptonian. (ADVENTURES #519, Jan.95) Hence, I suspect
that it was Shadowdragon who analyzed the details to learn the secret rather
than S.T.A.R.
Thus, the roster of those who know the secret varies from SupermanÕs
best friends to his worst enemies, and there may be still more I have
forgotten to include. The mere fact that IÕve compiled (and youÕve read)
this list demonstrates the importance of the Clark Kent identity. The
oldest excuseÑand the one proven in the Death of Clark Kent story lineÑfor
having a secret identity is the protection of ClarkÕs loved ones. Similarly
important is Kal-ElÕs need to live a normal life as the human he was raised
to be. If Conduit tells others what he has learned, it could mean a
permanent end to the secret identity. It appears that ClarkÕs ÒdeathÓ will
be temporary, however, and most fans hope that such is the case. In
considering the character, I am as much a fan of Clark Kent as of Superman:
for without Clark, Superman is not fully human.
SUMMARY LIST:
Friends and Family: Fellow Heroes:
Ma and Pa Kent Batman (Bruce Wayne)
Lana Lang Wonder Woman (Diana)
Lori Lemaris Supergirl/Matrix
Lois Lane The Eradicator
Waverider (original) (DEAD)
Linear Men (some DEAD)
Enemies: Supernatural Entities: Uncertain:
The Manhunters (DEAD) The Phantom Stranger Robin
Professor Emmett Vale (DEAD) The Spectre Superboy
Amanda McCoy (DEAD) The Black Racer The Cyborg
Bizarro (DEAD) Doctor Occult Brainiac
Conduit Kismet Shadowdragon
===================================================
End of Section 2
===================================================
REVIEWS
ÑÑÑ-
Ratings Panelists:
AL: Art LaMarche JS: Jeff Sykes PS: Patrick Stout
AW: Anatole Wilson JW: Jeff Witty RG: ReneÕ Gobeyn
DS: Dick Sidbury KM: Ken McKee VC: Victor Chan
JG: Jose R Galan WN: William J Nixon
As always, the first panelist rating is that of the reviewer.
THE ÒTRIANGLEÓ TITLES:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
17. SUPERMAN: MAN OF STEEL #44, ÒTo Know...Know...Know Him!Ó
Writer: Louise Simonson
Layouts: Jon Bogdanove
Finished Art: Dennis Janke
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
AW: 3 Shields
AL: 3.5 Shields - I enjoyed the issue. I think KeithÕs Òblack like meÓ
statement was really powerful. I am really glad he did
not say Òwhite like youÓ. But, why did his new friends
have to look so, well, dweeby?
DS: 3.5 Shields - Good Cover, a slow story leading into the Death story. There
were some nice little vignettes with minor characters Ñ I
enjoyed Alice and her sister. The whole issue was so
politically correct that it was noticeable.
JS: 3.5 Shields - Fairly good story with improving art...though the inks are
still too heavy.
KM: 5 Shields - I REALLY liked this one. I appreciate the continuing story
of KeithÕs struggle as an adopted child and how his parents
love him and stand behind him. Good action scenes, and I
think I will enjoy the mystery behind ClarkÕs death. I just
hope he doesnÕt wake up in bed from a bad dream.
PS: 4 Shields - Two great stories side-by-side: a fast-moving Superman
keeps up with ConduitÕs bomb attacks, while Keith learns
a lesson about (suburban) prejudice at school and at the
mall; excellent work by Louise Simonson.
Now, in this issue of KEITH: BOY OF COLOR, Keith gets mixed up with the wrong
kids and is framed for shoplifting. (The delinquents befriend him because
they know the storekeeper will focus on the one black kid in the crowd.)
Keith is afraid that the Whites wonÕt want to adopt him, but Perry sets him
straight, and by the end of the issue, Keith finds out who his real friends
are.
I really liked this story because...
WhatÕs that? Oh, the guy with the ponytail. Okay, heÕs in this story, too.
In fact, IÕd say he starts this issue off with a bang, but thatÕs such an
overused pun I wouldnÕt even consider it. Clark/Superman spends most of his
part of this issue overhearing ticking noises, saving people from bombs, and
discovering mysterious messages that simply say, ÒI Know.Ó
At the very end of the issue, Clark finds a Superman mannequin nailed to his
door, and comes to the immediate conclusion that the villain could be none
other than Kenny Braverman, a.k.a. Conduit. (A pretty amazing snap conclusion,
I must say, considering the number of foes Superman has, most of them
considerably more competent and threatening than Second Place Man.) Shall I
say again that I think Conduit is an unbelievable, big-time loser and not
worth SupermanÕsÑor ourÑtime? Nah.
So as I was saying, I liked KeithÕs story. The recent opening of the movie,
ÒLosing IsaiahÓ has brought the issue of interracial adoption back into the
publicÕs attention. Louise Simonson has, in this and past issues, handled
this issue sensitively, and even managed to make me care about Keith in the
process.
This brings up an interesting point. Louise SimonsonÕs strengths seem to lie
in writing stories about supporting characters. Jon BogdanoveÕs art lends
itself to action spreads with muscular figures bursting out of the panels.
Anyone else sensing the mismatch?
Speaking of the art, I can only call this issueÕs efforts clumsy. Bogdanove
had some decent panels, but they were spoiled by scratchy, incomplete inking.
Lois looked emaciated, and she had the worst haircut sheÕs ever had in the
past fifty years. Bogdanove belongs with a more action-oriented title, and
Janke belongs...well, I donÕt know where.
To sum up, KeithÕs story saves an otherwise pedestrian issue.
Anatole
=========================================================
18. SUPERMAN #100, ÒThe Death of Clark KentÓ
Writer: Dan Jurgens
Pencils: Dan Jurgens
Inks: Brett Breeding & Josef Rubinstein
$3.95 US/$5.50 CAN/#2.50 UK
RATINGS:
AL: 4 Shields
AW: 3 Shields - I wouldÕve enjoyed this story more if the villain wasnÕt
super-loser, super-unbelievable Conduit. The art seemed
rushed in places.
DS: 3.5 Shields - IÕm nervous about this story line. It has the potential to
be another Dead Again. My favorite line is when DC makes
fun of the names of their villains:
Conduit: Show some respect, kid! The nameÕs Conduit!
Jimmy: Hooray for you! Where are your pals Pipe Cleaner Kid
and Light Switch Girl?
JG: 3.5 Shields - Actually, I would give 5 shields up to page 29. But the
silly Olsen dialogue and the tanks and soldiers around the
Kents house ruin a great story.
JS: 4 Shields - A good story which was perhaps a little bit drawn out.
The length somewhat detracted from the pacing of the story.
Best Jurgens art since Zero Hour!
PS: 3 Shields - I was expecting more from this anniversary issue Ñ super
splash page, nice artwork throughout, lots of actionÑbut,
aside from the farmhouse explosion, thereÕs nothing special
or memorable here.
This issue begins with Clark holding a Voodoo-like doll of Superman wearing
Clark KentÕs glasses pierced by a large knife. Clark quickly gives Jimmy the
brush-off and changes into Superman knowing that his secret identity is
compromised, and his world is unraveling. He flies to Smallville, tells
his parents about the crisis and begs them to leave. The phone rings and our
villain confronts Kal-El directly with the new insight.
Meanwhile back in Metropolis, Jimmy has stolen his way into Clark Kents ÒcribÓ.
He discovers ClarkÕs glasses and believes even more strongly that his pal is
in trouble. ZZZ. YYahhh! A green glow surrounds Jimmy and he falls
unconscious. ThatÕs right, Conduit is back. He picks up the cellular phone
and calls the Kent farm after torching the apartment. He tells Superman about
Clark KentÕs ÒdeathÓ and says that his woman is next. He scoops up Jimmy and
retires.
Superman flies to Metropolis and tells Lois that her life is in danger, only
to realize that it is not Lois in danger, but Lana Lang. Back to Smallville.
Superman arrives just in time to save Pete and Lana from an exploding
champagne bottle. He tells them that Braverman is out to kill all of his
old friends and they must go into hiding. He flies back to Metropolis to have
a heart to heart with Lois. On his way there, he sees the damage done to his
apartment and learns of JimmyÕs fate. On the roof of the Planet, there is a
deep discussion between Lois and Kal-El about the fact that Clark Kent is the
real person, and Superman is the secret identity.
Jimmy wakes up and suffers through some ranting and raving of Conduit as he
bad mouths Clark, but Jimmy will have nothing of it, and he steadfastly
defends Clark. All the while, Conduit plays with the essence of Clark
Kent Ñ the glasses. Then, he summons Superman with an ultra high frequency
tone, and Superman flies off to investigate. He dispatches some goons on
flying jet skis and smashes into ConduitÕs lair. He orders Jimmy to leave
and the battle begins. Olsen refuses, but Superman reprimands him and Jimmy
reluctantly tries to exit. Conduit does not like the idea and once again
takes Jimmy hostage, this time using the cables. Superman rips them from
Conduit and sets Jimmy free. With Jimmy free Superman really pours it on.
He defeats Conduit but realizes he may have lost the war as the vid screen
shows the Kent farm surrounded with military hardware....
Superman leaves and Conduit gloats. Then the glasses are smashed. Superman
arrives in Smallville and destroys most of the hardware, and saves his
parents. He confesses that Conduit has won and Conduit is seen in a faded
background holding his arms up in triumph.
I really enjoyed this issue. A lot of stuff went down. I have been waiting
a long time for something like this to happen. Kal-El is more vulnerable than
he ever has been. It will be interesting to see how the next few issues play
out. Most of the art was really beautiful, but some of the poses seemed
exceptionally static and clicheÕ Ñ the bottom of page 42 is an example.
Colors, as always, were great. The inking shadows added a lot of ominous
tone to the book Ñ check out the effect on the bottom of page 35 as Kal-El
discovers the hideout. There was a lot of emotion to be found everywhere in
the book. From the tenderness shown to each other between Lana and Pete, to
the deep familiarity between Ma and Pa. The loyalty of Jimmy, the deep
concern of Lois, the fear of our hero, to the insanity of our villain. I
found the mix very powerful.
I liked a lot of things about the book, but would have changed several, also.
I really liked the final splash page, but I would have ended the story with
page 47 Ñ the destruction of the glasses. I found this to be really moving.
I place it right up there with photograph taken by Jimmy in Superman #75 of
the torn cape flapping in the wind. Even the destruction of the KentsÕ farm
was anticlimactic to the ÒsimpleÓ act of destroying the glasses. This is the
essence of the story.
Art LaMarche
=========================================================
19. ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN #523, ÒThe HitÓ
Writer: Karl Kesel
Penciller: Stuart Immonen
Inker: Jose Marzan Jr.
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
PS: 2 Shields
AL: 3 Shields - Not as powerful as last week, but good solid issue.
AW: 4 Shields - Good story with Superman using his brains to defeat Warp
and Plasmus. Art was erratic, though.
DS: 3 Shields - A disappointment considering this is SupermanÕs most
talented artistic team. I did enjoy the technology used to
track the Kents and Lois Ñ it seemed close to whatÕs
possible now. The issue seemed to mostly be waiting for
big developments.
JG: 3 Shields - Some action, some fun, great art. But my overall impression
is neutral. I donÕt like Warp and his gang. They belong to
the TITANS, and here they are completely out.
KM: 3.5 Shields - IÕll go along with the story. I particularly like the
involvement of the Kents. It appears to be a little slow
after Superman #100. And it reminds me a little of the way
Bane wore Batman down before he broke his back.
YouÕve got to wonder, when the Carlin Òsuper-teamÓ gets together to plot a
yearÕs worth of stories, if every story team knows that theyÕll be taking
turns doing the Òmindless slugfest issueÓ for each arc. Do some of them beg
for more than their share of these? Kesel wouldnÕt, I believe, and there are
very few Kesel trademark touches in this Òbattle issueÓ of AOS.
If there is any Kesel humor to be found here, itÕs in the titleÑÓThe HitÓÑa
perfect description of all that happens in this issue. In fact, the ÒhitsÓ
start with the splash pageÑas Neutron knocks the snot out of Big Blue
(Superman, not IBM). Plasmus shows up chasing the Kents on page 2, Warp
confronts them on page 3, and Superman needs to take a tree trunk and dispatch
Neutron by page 4 so he can fly the Kents the heck out of there.
Conduit has hired the three super-powered mercenaries to wipe out Ma and Pa,
as Superman is hiding them out in Denver. With a Kesel tip of the hat to the
Weisinger/Schwartz Superman, Clark bemoans the fact that he has no cape-pouch
to keep his clothes in and dons some castoff John Travolta/Urban Cowboy duds.
When the super-creeps reappear and he tears into them, one streetside observer
shouts, ÒWho was that cowboy? Some sort of Lone Ranger type?Ó
Superman ends this action-packed storyline with a midair save of his foster
parents as they plunge off Lookout Point. Having dispatched the villains
(Plasmus and Neutron collided in an atomic-sized blast, and the Man of Steel
separated WarpÕs body on each side of the warp effect), he leaves the Kents
at the bottom of the cliff so he can go back to Metropolis to check on Lois.
Back at her apartment, he finds the place in disarray and a message on her
answering machine from Kenny Braverman. ÒIÕm not very far away,Ó the voice
says, Òmind if I pay you a visit?Ó
Well, the boys did their bit for the arcÑthey filled all but 3 of the 22
pages with super-battling. But this is not the type of story IÕm used to
from this team, and I found it very disappointing. I canÕt help but to
continue thinking about the question I posed at the beginningÑdoes a team
enjoy doing this type of story as a change of pace, or is everyone resigned
to taking their turn at Òbattle fillerÓ for a particular story arc?
Patrick Stout
=========================================================
20. ACTION COMICS #710, ÒMen of different mettleÓ
Writer: David Michelinie
Artists: Jackson Guice and Denis Rodier
$1.95 US/$2.75 CAN/#1.25 UK
RATINGS:
WN: 4 Shields - More Action, Metallo, Turpin and a cliffhanger ending
AL: 5 Shields - OUCH! Talk about a cliff-hanger. Ouch! I had to say it
again. That issue hurt. Maybe I will wake up next week at
noon on Weds. to get MoS.
DS: 3.5 Shields - I havenÕt decided whether I like the new paper. The
cover is one of the best in months. I thought Metallo
was supposed to be powered by Kryptonite but there was no
evidence of it. It would have been truly dramatic if
anyone believed that Lois really died.
JS: 3.5 Shields - Aside from the Metallo fight, this was a very good issue.
For some reason (I wonÕt attribute it to the shiny paper
yet), Guice and RodierÕs art didnÕt bug me as much as it
usually does.
PS: 4 Shields - A dynamite (no pun intended) cover by Guice, a Michelinie
story that covered a lot of ground, and the new slick-paper
format: all reasons for enjoying this issue; MetalloÕs words
upon realizing his inevitable defeat (ÒAw, no! Not the
head!Ó), the KentsÕ observations on their new life on the
run, and the cliffhanger explosion at the end are the most
memorable scenes in this satisfying tale.
Superman has checked out LoisÕs apartment and found no trace of her.
Believing that sheÕs been kidnapped he rockets out to the Pipeline HQ in
the Ôburbs, only to find that itÕs now a smoking ruin... he hopes that Jimmy
managed to escape.
In downtown Metropolis, Lois is on the run. She got out of her apartment the
minute she heard KennyÕs voice on her answering machine. Pipeline goons pull
guns on her at a hot dog stand but she swings for them and ducks down an
alley. She pulls a fire escape ladder down to divert them and they take
the bait.
At the crater site, Superman is blasted by a rebuilt Metallo. His new body
has a geo-magnet which keeps him firmly anchored to the ground, making it
difficult to knock him over. He swings for the Man of Steel and sends him
crashing through the roof of a Metropolis shopping mall.
Lois uses a computer store modem to access her Planet computer and get a note
of SCU radio frequencies. The credit check which the store runs brings
Pipeline shock troops to its front door while Lois escapes out the back. In
Colorado, Jonathan and Martha have found a cabin. Martha hopes Clark is
careful. They canÕt believe the farm in Smallville is gone.
Metallo follows Superman into the mall and they go one on one. A
communication chip keeps Metallo up to date with LoisÕ progress. He
doesnÕt know that Clark and Superman are one and the same. Lois ÒborrowsÓ
a radio from one of MPDÕs finest to get in touch with Dan Turpin at SCU.
PipelineÕs operatives extend even to the SCU and one of them reports that
Lois has been in touch.
Supes leaves the mall to rescue her but turns back realizing that he canÕt
leave Metallo standing. They duke it out outside and Metallo, standing on a
truck is ready to throw the final blow. Superman knocks the truck from under
him, breaking his magnetic link, and holding him off the ground, severs his
head from his body. He rigs a radio headset into the comms chip to find out
where Lois is and heads back to Metropolis.
Dan, in a battlesuit, meets Lois at the top of an empty, new building. The
suit detects the chemical signatures of a bomb. The final splash page shows
the top of the building exploding in spectacular fashion.
Wow, exciting finale which has me looking forward to next weekÕs Man of Steel.
I really enjoyed this installment of the ÔDeathÕ storyline and the focus on
Lois. It was interesting to see Metallo back and Superman face one of his
more traditional enemies. No sign of Conduit this issue. The only element
I found jarring in the storyline was the Pipeline shock troops piling out of
a van in Metropolis. The rest of the story was a tightly pulled together
chapter in the larger whole. Good to see Turpin again. After last months
advances in the serial killer subplot, it was notable by its absence this
month (and I suspect next month as ÔDeathÕ concludes) but it is LoisÕ story
and sheÕs not really in a position to write it up!
This was also the first Superissue in the new glossy paper format, and I
liked it. The paper really showcased the art and added an exciting new
dimension to the storyline (I know weÕre paying for it but it does look good).
I look forward to seeing the other titles. Guice and RodierÕs Metallo is a
formidable creation and the final splash page was great. Special mention to
Glenn Whitmore, the colorist, the new format adds vibrancy to the colors and
the feel of Metropolis.
My thanks to Jeff who asked me if I would review Action this month and to Art
who has asked if I could continue to review it. It would be a pleasure to do
this title, thanks. Congratulations on your first year guys.
William J Nixon
===================================================
OTHER SUPER-TITLES:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ
SUPERBOY #15, ÒHonor Among ThievesÓ (Watery Grave: Part 3 of 3)
Writer: Karl Kesel
Artist: Kevin West
Inkers: Dan Davis & Ande Parks
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
VC: 3.5 Shields
AL: 2 Shields - This storyline just seemed to leak like a balloon. I
thought the code was crap. But bring back Stinger! I like
him. I want him to get stronger roles. (Just as an
experiment, what do YOU think? Send me a quick note at
LaMarche@Dartmouth.edu and I will include results and some
of your thoughts next month.)
AW: 3 Shields - This issue just lost steam. Lady DragonÕs Code of honor
was unfathomably silly. And does anybody remember back
when Capt. Boomerang was a good enough villain to give the
Flash a run for his money?
JS: 3 Shields - An unsatisfactory ending to what started as a promising
story Ñ the first time KeselÕs dropped the ball on this
title. I did like Kevin WestÕs art though.
Confronted with death, Superboy is given a fighting chance. Freed from the
power-damping devices, he is able to fight Lady Dragon, literally without
his hands behind his back. During their fight, Lady Dragon brags of her
pre-knowledge of the Suicide SquadÕs raid, revealing to Superboy the presence
of an informer in their midst.
Meanwhile, Knockout and Deadshot escape from their detention areawhile
Captain Boomerang reunites with King Shark and Makoa only to face Stinger and
an onslaught of Silicon Dragon flunkies. As Knockout and Deadshot meet up
with the other three member of the Suicide Squad, they promptly defeat the
scores of ÔstormtroopersÕ thrown against them. When faced with StingerÕs
fate, Makoa decides to turn it to his advantage, playing upon StingerÕs
dissatisfaction with the Silicon Dragons. In the midst of combat, Lady Dragon
immediately perceives a betrayal and disappears down an access hatch to deal
with it. Superboy obstinately follows only to find Lady Dragon facing down
his compatriots and Stinger.
The floor panels open up, leaving everyone hanging precariously from support
beams. During the confrontation between Lady Dragon and Stinger, Captain
Boomerang accidentally reveals his own betrayal to Makoa and the Squad.
Deadshot immediately tries to dispatch him but is somewhat foiled by
SuperboyÕs rescue of Boomerang.
Taking action, Knockout leaps to King Shark knocking him off the struts.
Falling to the floor of the base, she activates his detonator, destroying
the plant in the process.
Superboy and Makoa reconcile their differences, but aside from Captain
BoomerangÕs potential predicament the fate of Lady Dragon and the other
teammates are unknown.
Doh! Expecting another great Kesel/Grummett story, I was confronted with
another guest artist, Kevin West. Possibly a newcomer (I havenÕt seen his
credits anywhere before), I still preferred Humberto Ramos (whoÕs doing a
fantastic job on Impulse). I found that his style was too much Image- or
Larsen/Liefeld-inspired. Not that thatÕs bad in some peopleÕs opinion, just
not my cup of tea.
[Note: Kevin West was the artist on JLA #80-85. ÑJeff]
I felt that this issue was a little of the same of #14 - too much action, a
little short on plot. This issue, GrummettÕs art wasnÕt around to boost the
quality of Superboy. I think the story suffered from too many characters and
trying to integrate too much of a storyline within three issues. It seemed
that a good pace was established in #13 but then disrupted with the subsequent
issues. I agree that Knockout and King SharkÕs fate should be left to
mysterious circumstances (a chance that Knockout will show up later) but it
seemed that Kesel didnÕt want to resolve much of the storyline. Essentially
over three issues, Superboy, Makoa and Suicide Squad raid the Silicon DragonsÕ
base only to destroy it, killing a large number of underlings in the process.
The evil boss is able to escape the destruction and the general outcome is
somewhat of a cypher. I think that, although the whole concept wasnÕt all
that original, Kesel has the talent to give it a nice twist. Unfortunately,
the ending was resolved too atypically. Also unfortunately, that was what I
felt this issue was - typical.
Victor Chan
===================================================
End of Section 3
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OTHER SUPER-TITLES (cont):
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STEEL #15, ÒDouble TroubleÓ
Written by Louise Simonson
Pencilled by Chris Batista
Inked by Rich Faber
$1.50 US/$2.10 CAN/70p UK
RATINGS:
DS: 3 Shields
JW: 4.5 Shields - Interesting story, wonderful art, yet White Rabbit was
ÒbiggerÓ last time we saw her. :-)
Previously, White Rabbit, one of SteelÕs primary villains, has created a
method of manipulating the computers on the desktops of legislators to
ÒbrainwashÓ them whenever they look at their screens. Sen. Sarah Weaver, a
strong proponent of gun control, has been brainwashed into changing her
position on this issue. BunnyÕs plan is to either brainwash the senators
who oppose her position or kill those that donÕt cooperate. One of her
cohorts, Jitter, causes another senator to drive off a bridge to his death.
Fortunately, Steel is flying by and grabs the senatorÕs car and saves him.
Miles Duncan, the British actor and cousin to Sen. Weaver is performing in
Washington and Natasha, John HenryÕs niece, has been given tickets by her
employer Sen. Weaver. MilesÕ father is apparently a member of the British
intelligence and wants his son to take up the family business instead of
wasting his life as an actor.
John Henry was supposed to take Nate to the play as a birthday present but
arrives late due to his Steel appearance. He flies her to the theater and
changes in the alley, then they see the play and go back stage to meet Mr.
Duncan. Sen. Weaver meets the trio back stage and tells them that she now
realizes that her gun control position was misguided. Both Irons and Duncan
are incredulous.
Miles disguises himself as a janitor and sneaks into the Senate office
building and finds out that several others have also been brainwashed. He
comes back later that night ... as a superhero! He wears black spandex with
a copper colored face shield and goggles. He has several utility belts filled
with high-tech British secret service equipment. He calls himself ÒDoubleÓ,
apparently having found his name in the same book that Kenny Braverman used
to name himself Conduit.
Both Double and Steel decide to break into Sen. WeaverÕs office that night to
investigate her computer. They have a two page fight before realizing that
they are on the same side and have effectively canceled each other out.
Once this is sorted out, Miles takes out a CD-ROM and uses it to get access
to his cousinÕs computer. His dialogue with Steel uses all the high tech
buzzwords: password, hard drive.
This tampering is detected by the White Rabbit and she sends her goons to
take care of Steel and Double. The story will be continued next month.
Of the twenty-two pages about four are splashes. The backgrounds of over
half of the panels are very sketchy.
The cover says True Romance, and shows the White Rabbit standing over a
prone Steel in her fishnets, white Teddy, and Toastmaster. The background
is filled with dark red curtains. I canÕt see how this relates to the story
at all.
IÕve always thought that Louise SimonsonÕs strength was characterization,
particularly of minor characters, but there was very little of any type in
this issue.
DC is raising the price of most of its books and IÕll have to give serious
thought about what to keep and what to drop over the next few months. After
rereading this issue several times for this review, it seems that Steel, like
most of the Super books, has not been very interesting this month. I know
that if I could brainwash Congress, I wouldnÕt waste my time on small stuff
like guns. I hope this is a test run to see if the scheme works and that we
can develop a major villain, but I have my doubts.
Dick Sidbury sidbury@cs.uofs.edu
=========================================================
SHOWCASE Ô95 #4, ÒLiving on the EdgeÓ (Part 1 of 2)
Starring The Thorn
Written by: Roger Stern
Pencils by: Howard Simpson
Inks by: Mark Stegbauer
Cover by Jackson Guice
$2.50 US/$3.50 CAN/#1.50 UK
RATINGS:
RG: Story 4 Shields - nice follow up on Thorn appearance in AOS #521
Art 3.5 Shields - clean art needs a bit more detail and perspective
JS: 3.5 Shields - A well-written story, though IÕm not too sure about this
revelation of RoseÕs additional personalities. The art
was weak at first, but it picked up toward end.
Thorn is on the track of criminal organization known as the 100 - a criminal
organization that killed her father, a former Metropolis Police officer. She
and Superman had thought they had shut the organization down years ago, but
recent events (refer to AOS #521 for details) have made her think that they
could be reforming. She easily breaks into police headquarters where she
checks the status of her old employer Vincent Adams, former front man for the
100. She doesnÕt find anything new in the police files, and she has just
referenced her fatherÕs files when she is interrupted by a cop who mistakes
her for Poison Ivy. She escapes leaving Maggie Sawyer and Dan Turpin (of the
Metropolis SCU) to clean up the mess in police headquarters.
Thorn, not content with what she has learned, is out on the street chasing
down her own leads in ways the police cannot. Her careful questioning turns
up the name Mr. Orchid. Her time as Thorn has run out for the night and she
has to go back to her life as Rose Forrest. Meanwhile, the police have turned
up the fact that the last file Thorn had accessed was that of Phil Forrest.
Maggie decides to visit Rose and ask her a few questions about Thorn.
All in all a nicely done story. For those of you who may be too young to
remember, Thorn was at one time a regular back-up story in the pre-Crisis
Lois Lane title. Thorn has been mostly ignored for the past few years by
the Superman writers. This story proves that there is still a lot of life
in the character.
Unlike most of the older superheros, Rose is not so much a secret identity
as a different person. Thorn is usually kept submerged under the Rose
personality, only coming to the surface after Rose has gone to sleep. The
current writers are making Rose more aware of the Thorn part of her, using
the differences to show some of the inner conflict between the essentially
two different characters. So far itÕs working. I hope to see a lot more of
the character in the (near) future.
I like the way the current writers are (for the most part) keeping her pre-
Crisis personality (and her dealings with the 100) intact. Quite a feat
considering how many other characters were changed almost beyond recognition
by Crisis.
Green Arrow: ÒPower LunchÓ
Written by: Chuck Dixon
Penciled by: Chris Renaud
Inks by: Ray McCarthy
Story 4 shields - ties into current Green Arrow, Green Lantern
stories. not linked to Superman at this time
Art 3.5 shields - good perspective and characters, needs a lot
more detail and background
Story follows Connor Hawke and Eddie Sykes as they try to follow upon Green
ArrowÕs disappearance. After an obligatory fight scene they find out that
Oliver left in the company of who they believe to be Hal Jordan.
Catwoman: ÒFear No ManÓ
Written and drawn by: Deborah Pomerantz and Jim Balent
Inks by: Terry Austin
Story 4.5 shields - good characterization, tight plot, consistent
throughout. Really liked the ending.
Art 4 shields - good use of perspective and shadows,
backgrounds are OK but could use more detail
Catwoman obtains a microfilmed formula for a metal that is invisible to
metal detectors. She then ÒnegotiatesÓ with the original owner.
ReneÕ Gobeyn
=========================================================
THE NEW TITANS #121, ÒDemonsoulÓ (Forever Evil: Part 3 of 3)
Written by: Marv Wolfman
Penciled by: William Rosado
Inks by: Keith Champagne and Rich Rankin
$1.95 US/$2.75 CAN/#1.25 UK
RATINGS:
RG: Story 5 Shields - nice finish to story, team is pulling together
Art 5 Shields - great perspectives with detailed backgrounds
JS: 1.5 Shields - RosadoÕs take on (un-punked) Supergirl was nice, but there
certainly wasnÕt much of it there Ñ a problem with team
books. The story here was simply horrible.
This book completes the ÒForever EvilÓ story that has been working its way
through the Titans and allied books for the past few months. The story line
serves as a great introduction of the new characters (Supergirl and Minion)
into the group.
The book opens with Supergirl attacking Phantasm, who takes her to Azarath to
be purged of the Trigon seed. Phantasm gives her (and us) a brief history of
the Titans/Trigon/Raven wars that have been going on for years.
Meanwhile Raven is trying to take Donna Troy (Darkstar) as a host for one of
the Trigon seeds. Kyle Raynor (Green Lantern) picks this time to break free
of the lava where Supergirl pushed him last issue. While he and Raven are
fighting, Donna breaks free only to be shot full of poison by Quill. For some
reason (we are never told), her force field didnÕt stop them. She is falling
into the Lava when Supergirl, Phantasm, Terra, and Minion attack. Supergirl
saves Donna and pulls out the quills, saving DonnaÕs life.
Mirage is being hunted through the caverns by Trog. Just as he is about to
finish her off, Deathwing attacks him. The scene shifts back to the main
battle where the others are battling Thunder, Lightning, et al. and Phantasm
takes the battle to Raven.
Phantasm and Raven destroy each other (at least for now) and the Trigon hosts
fall unconscious. The Titans gather up everyone and blast their way out of
the caverns before everything explodes.
The book closes with Mirage in the hospital after losing the baby and STAR
Labs looking after the unconscious Trigon Hosts.
An all together excellent book to close off a story line. The dialogue,
teamwork, emotions and characterization are really beginning to come together
in this title. It doesnÕt hurt any that we get to see Supergirl acting like
the hero she is again either.
Definitely not for a first time reader, though the recap of the past
Trigon/Raven stories was excellent. By itself that would be worth the
cost of the book to somebody who is just starting to pickup title.
This title is getting better each month. I had some serious doubts about the
new team ever pulling together. It seemed long on angst, and short on
experience and real power. Over the past few months with the inclusion of
Green Lantern, Donna Troy and now Supergirl and Minion we have the makings of
a tremendously powerful team. This in turn should produce some excellent new
story lines.
ReneÕ Gobeyn
===================================================
ANNUALS AND SPECIAL APPEARANCES:
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SUPERMAN: MAN OF STEEL ANNUAL #4, ÒHeroÓ
Writer: Louise Simonson
Pencils: John Paul Leon
Inks: Dennis Janke
$2.95 US/$4.25 CAN/#2.00 UK
RATINGS:
AW: 1.5 Shields
JS: 1 Shield - The Walt Simonson cover is the only thing that gave this a
non-zero rating. The story is little more than a rehash of
previous tales, and JankeÕs inks are *way* too heavy. (I
know JP Leon is better than this, so the blame *must* fall
on Janke.)
KM: 3 Shields - I HATED the artwork. The story was interesting, but nothing
out of the ordinary.
PS: 3 Shields - A new angle on SupermanÕs relationship to the early JLA,
and the backstory on why Clark is more human than super-
human; interesting uses of shadow in the artwork of J.P.
Leon and Dennis Janke.
As you may know, DC has devoted this summer to covering over the damage done
to the DC Universe by the recent ZERO HOUR mini-series. Each summer annual is
a ÒYear OneÓ story that gives each seriesÕ writers a chance to try to clear up
some of the murkiness left by ZERO HOUR and say Òyeah-yeah. ThatÕs what
really happened.Ó
ÒHeroÓ is the story of SupermanÕs first meeting with Batman and the heroes
who would form the Justice League of America. ItÕs a reasonably well-told
story that falls apart for me because it exemplifies the indignities that have
been heaped on Superman and the rest of the DC Universe since the CRISIS ON
INFINITE EARTHS and brutally exacerbated by ZERO HOUR.
For the first 46 years of his existence, Superman was the greatest superhero
legend of all time because he was the first, the most powerful, the ideal of
what a hero should be. As the last survivor of a planet that had conquered
many of societyÕs problems, he had a unique perspective of Earth and its
societies. He was a leader among the other heroes because of his strength of
character. In a world where he had no equals, he earned the respect and
friendship of a special class of peers.
Then he got Byrned. From the ashes rose a Superman who was no longer the
first, (The JSA precedes him by forty years), no longer the strongest, too
often filled with self doubt to make a great leader (see his appearances in
the second JLA series), and his perspective was limited to that of any citizen
of downtown Smallville. And other heroes, most notably Green Lantern, fared
no better.
Louise Simonson takes this sad legacy and does her best with it, but itÕs a
losing battle. SheÕs packed a lot of action scenes with good characterization
and dialogue (Green Lantern excepted) and humor, but I couldnÕt get past the
un-super character she was writing about.
It is clear at the beginning of this story that Clark not only does not know
of his own otherworldly origins, but does not seem to remember his forerunners
in the JSA. He muses about being the Òonly one of his kind,Ó and shows
amazement when he meets a non-super-powered Batman. Personally, I still
havenÕt gotten over the loss of the WorldÕs Finest friendship. (I know,
ÒSeparation anxietyÑdeal with it and get on with your life!Ó)
Then Superman meets a doubt-plagued Green Lantern. Remember when Hal Jordan
was selected because he was born without fear? A heroic individual? No,
no one at DC does either.
Superman goes on to meet Flash, Aquaman, and JÕonn JÕonzz in some crisp,
well-written and enjoyable scenes. I especially enjoyed Lois Lane and Iris
Allen sniping at each other as rival reporters.
The story is once again hampered, though, by the Byrne legacy as Superman
saves, then refuses membership in the newly-formed JLA. ÒI donÕt have the
time,Ó he says. What does he think, that no one else there has a life outside
of super-heroing? Then as he flies off, he thinks, ÒI have friends now.Ó
With friends like him, who needs casual acquaintances?
The final indignity is when Superman is assaulted by a holographic projection
of his father, Jor-el. Only Pa KentÕs intercession saves Clark from losing
his humanity, weÕre told. Then Clark gives a little speech about how he can
reject his heritage (and with the heritage of ByrneÕs Krypton, who wouldnÕt
reject it?) and how the Kents brought him up is what truly makes him a
Superman. ItÕs a sad attempt to justify what has reduced Superman from being
unique to being just another average guy with too many muscles and a tight
costume.
I realize that IÕm in the minority opinion here, but thatÕs the feeling IÕve
had since I first picked up the MAN OF STEEL mini-series so many years ago.
IÕd talk about the erratic art, but how many times can you say that you
suspect that fine art and layouts may have lurked under sloppy inking, but
the world will never be sure? The art is powerful in some places, crude in
others.
I donÕt fault Louise Simonson for my disappointment with this story. Had
this story been about any other hero, this would have been a four-and-a-half
shield story. But sheÕs hog-tied by the bad characterizations of the past,
which makes this story only a shadow of what it could have been with a
Superman of a different time, a different world.
Anatole
=========================================================
PRIMAL FORCE #7, ÒLessonsÓ
Written by: Steven Seagle
Pencils by: Nick Choles and Greg La Rocque
Inks by: Barbara Kaalberg
$1.95 US/$2.75 CAN/#1.25 UK
Story: 3 shields - nice recap of several of DCÕs current and past story
lines - could have used an underlying story though
Art: 3.5 shields - starts out in a minor surrealistic fashion. Quickly
switches to almost a slide show newsreel effect. Better
than average, but not much.
Jack OÕLantern wakes up in ÒThe Land of the WaterÓ where he is taken on a
spirit journey. He is shown the traits of heroism from sacrifice (a nicely
done recap of death and re-birth of Superman), courage, perseverance (Wonder
Woman), and compassion (Hawkman). He also gets to see that a heroÕs life
doesnÕt mean giving up intimacy and family (Green Lantern and his new life
with the Titans). He also get a view of how powers and values similar to his
can be applied in such a way that good can be accomplished in a very bad way
(Azrael).
Taken together it was a very pleasant read. The book could be used to
provide an introduction to several of DCÕs ongoing titles, but as a story
on its own it didnÕt make it.
ReneÕ Gobeyn
=========================================================
GUY GARDNER: WARRIOR #31, ÒChannel SurfinÕ A NightmareÓ
Written by Beau Smith
Pencilled by Mitch Byrd, Rick Mays, J.H. Williams III, Brad Gorby,
Dan Jurgens, Joyce Chin, and Mike Wieringo
Inked by Dan Davis, Art Thibert, and Terry Austin
Cover by Paul Pelletier & Dan Davis
$1.75/$2.50 CAN/#1.25 UK
RATINGS:
JS: 2 Shields
In the midst of the story of his battle with Superman (last issue), Guy is
interrupted by the arrival of Dementor, a recent addition to WarriorÕs rogues
gallery. His accomplice, a witch doctor, has magically sealed Warriors, but
Sentinel (Green Lantern Alan Scott) breaks through to help. Hearing the
commotion, Arisia (in a slutty new outfit) and Tiger-Man come up front to
also assist. Mudakka, the witch doctor, then proceeds to torture each of the
heroes with nightmarish visions. Supergirl, for example, is faced with
hundreds of copies of herself, a la the SUPERGIRL miniseries from last year.
Eventually, Guy overcomes the magic, freeing the other heroes from their
nightmares. They then proceed to battle to a stand still until GuyÕs
Vuldarian Òadvanced warning systemÓ kicks in again Ñ also affecting Dementor,
who is apparently part Vuldarian. Sentinel takes the opportunity to catapult
the two villains into some other plane of existence. Supergirl leaves to
rejoin the Titans as the others begin to clean up.
The hodge-podge of artists is *very* distracting to this issue. The entire
story was very fragmented and hurried. I wouldnÕt recommend this issue to
anyone who is not a fan of Warrior. (What a difference a month makes...)
Jeff Sykes
===================================================
End of Section 4
===================================================
LOOKING BACK
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AFTER-BYRNE: Reviews of the Post-Crisis Man of Steel
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PANIC IN THE SKY!
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Reviewed by Jeffery D. Sykes (sykes@ms.uky.edu)
FINAL STRIKE
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SUPERMAN #66, ÒOur Army at WarÓ
April 1992
Written by Dan Jurgens
Art by Dan Jurgens and Brett Breeding
Cover Price: $1.00 US/$1.25 CAN/60p UK
Overstreet Price: $1.00 US
On the streets of Metropolis, the ground forces find themselves increasingly
overwhelmed by the troops from Warworld. But led by the grim determination
of Batman, they refuse to give up. Above in the LexCorp tower, Professor
Hamilton and Lex Luthor II complete their dispersal cannon and aid the heroes
with their blasts at the aliens below. Amidst the chaos, Jimmy can only
wonder at how bad things must be up on the looming Warworld.
After refusing to allow Maxima to join the space forces in their final
assault on Brainiac, Superman uses his x-ray vision to discover there are
three main corridors leading to the villain. At Agent LibertyÕs suggestion,
the heroes break into three teams to attack Brainiac on multiple fronts.
While Guy Gardner and the Metal Men remain behind to watch Maxima, Flash has
sped ahead to make an advance attack. However, BrainiacÕs connection to
Warworld has forewarned him, and he springs his own trap on the Scarlet
Speedster.
Finally fed up with their interventions, Brainiac decides to deal with the
heroes once and for all, unleashing a staggering psychic assault, augmented
greatly by the vast technology of Warworld. With their attack halted,
Brainiac initiates his plan to shrink Metropolis, releasing a multitude of
glowing discs which form an energy grid over the city. Though they attack
with their most formidable weapons, the Earth-bound heroes manage no progress
against the discs.
On Warworld, the heroes have retreated in the face of BrainiacÕs assault,
and several of the lesser-powered members of the squad are in a bad way.
Maxima begins to goad Guy and the Metal Men, pointing out that Superman
must have failed. She makes a crack to Guy about letting Superman command
him, and Guy agrees to attack with her. Using his ring to build a shield
around himself, Guy manages to make his way to the chamber adjoining
BrainiacÕs command center. From there, he directs a beam through to the
other chamber, allowing the Metal Men to burst through.
Bursting from the heart of the tank formed by the Metal Men, Maxima launches
her own assault at Brainiac. However, with his link to Warworld magnifying
his powers, she is soon struggling to remain conscious. Flash, realizing
the grave danger, manages to compose himself long enough to pick up a shard
of glass and fling it towards Brainiac, slicing through the cables which
connected him to Warworld. With his augmentation source cut off, Brainiac
soon finds himself pummeled by MaximaÕs vengeance-fueled onslaught, and he
manages only to launch a small device before a final, crippling blast.
On Earth, the mightiest heroes from the space forces, including Captain
Marvel, Valor, Infinity Man, Kilowog, and Booster Gold, arrive via a boom
tube, and they slowly begin to eliminate the energy net.
Though obviously defeated, Brainiac receives no mercy from Maxima, as her
onslaught continues until Superman forces her to stop. Simultaneously
relieved and exhausted, the heroes quietly enjoy their victory.
This was the first issue that I had real problems with. There were a few small
continuity problems that I couldnÕt resolve. First, at the end of the
previous issue, Warworld was no longer able to transport troops to the EarthÕs
surface, and the Earth forces had essentially defeated the Warworlders. Yet
at the beginning of this issue, more troops are arriving and the heroes are
in dire straits.
Next, when Brainiac unleashes his massive assault, Kilowog is forced to retreat
along with the other attacking heroes. Yet GuyÕs ring is able to get him
all the way into the core of Warworld, into the adjoining chamber to BrainiacÕs
control room!
Other than these two problems, the story was fairly good. ItÕs interesting
to note that with the massive technology, Brainiac was nearly unstoppable.
It makes you wonder a bit why he didnÕt try to find similar technology to
use against Superman during ÒDead Again.Ó
The art was impressive. First, the cover was a chilling companion to the
cover of issue #65, which showed Superman, Captain Marvel, Guy Gardner,
Batman, Agent Liberty, Deathstroke, Guardian, and Aquaman rushing to battle.
The difference here is that the heroes are all the victims of BrainiacÕs
assault, their bodies shredded to the bone.
Inside, the only splash page was the first page, and very few of the panels
were extremely large. The smaller panels were quite detailed, containing
good use of backgrounds, while the larger panels provided some beautiful
close-ups of Maxima, Superman, and Aquaman, as well as several truly sinister
takes on Brainiac.
All things considered, since the art was very good, but the story had a few
problems, I would have to give this issue 3.5 shields. Note that the quality
of the issues declined slightly over the course of the story (which seems to
be the norm in these multi-part stories), though the ending here was quite a
bit better than most of the stories weÕve seen recently.
=========================================================
EPILOGUE
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THE ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN #489, ÒHail the Conquering HeroesÓ
April 1992
Written by Jerry Ordway
Art by Tom Grummett and Doug Hazlewood
Cover by Tom Grummett and Jerry Ordway
Cover Price: $1.00 US/$1.25 CAN/60p UK
Overstreet Price: $1.00 US
With Maxima held restraint by the green energy shackles of Guy Gardner,
Superman watches as Dubbilex scans for activity in the mind of Brainiac.
Though apparently brain-dead, Brainiac receives no sympathy from the
livid Maxima, who repeatedly urges the heroes to execute the villain.
Metron, of the New Gods, once again in control of his Mobius chair, offers
to detain Brainiac. After discovering that denizens of Warworld have
already managed to restore Warworld to eighty percent functionality,
Superman urges them to cease their war with Earth. As Maxima suggests,
however, the Warworlders are incapable of ruling themselves, so Orion and
Lightray volunteer to oversee the denizens until a leader emerges.
With order restored, the heroes return to the surface, where they assist
the others in the rescue of injured and trapped Warworlders. Once everyone
is gathered, Lightray opens a boom tube, and the heroes finally return to
Metropolis Ñ in the midst of a parade to celebrate the victory! At Lex
Luthor IIÕs request, Superman addresses the crowd, and he makes a point of
mentioning that though he has preferred to work alone in the past, he has
now begun to realize the importance in teamwork. With the Justice League
gone, teamwork is a void which must be filled.
And in deep space, Matrix lays Draaga to rest beside the grave of the
Cleric who restored SupermanÕs Kryptonian heritage. In the midst of her
sorrow, she decides that Supergirl, the visage that Draaga died to protect,
is who she should be. And she will return to Earth to continue her life.
Finally, bolstered by his recent work for Newstime, Jimmy Olsen returns
to the Daily Planet, where the newly re-hired Perry White quickly re-adds
the boy to his staff.
The remainder of the issue sets in motion a new storyline involving the
return of Husque and Professor HamiltonÕs adventures in Exile World...
But that is a review for another time...
This was merely a wrap up to the story. Though it was well-written (When
was the last time da Ordster didnÕt pen a well-written book!?), there were
some minor continuity problems with the issue. The opening scene completely
contradicts the quiet relief and calm depicted in the final scene from
SUPERMAN #66. Also, and this is really picky, when the heroes return to
Earth amidst the parade, Valor, Mister Miracle, and Booster Gold are shown
arriving with the group from Warworld. However, at the end of SUPERMAN #66,
they were among the group who left Warworld to destroy the disks forming
the energy grid over Metropolis.
The characterizations are excellent, and Ordway does a great job of making
all of the boring details of the aftermath a realistic concern. The dialogue
of the heroes during this restoration of order is perfect.
The artwork is by Tom & Doug. ItÕs generally gorgeous! (Duh...) Of course,
IÕm getting a little tired of saying that every time I review something with
their artwork! YouÕd think they might have an off day every now and then... :)
This was a fun conclusion to the story, a conclusion which set up SupergirlÕs
return to Metropolis (and her subsequent involvement with Luthor), BrainiacÕs
ÒDead AgainÓ appearance on New Genesis, and SupermanÕs involvement with the
Justice League. For the closing of the story, another 3.5 Shields.
BTW, I want some suggestions for future reviews! Let me know what stories/
issues you are interested in seeing remembered. Maybe next month, IÕll try
to pick a story I didnÕt like! :)
Jeff
=========================================================
LEGACIES: Reviews of the pre-Crisis Man of Steel
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THE SILVER AGE SUPERMAN
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by Bill Morse (BillMorse@aol.com)
SupermanÕs Return to Krypton Part 2
One of my favorite stories of Superman on Krypton is an imaginary story, yet
it isnÕt. DC was just beginning to use the Imaginary concept, and hadnÕt
codified it yet. ÒSupermanÕs Other LifeÓ first appeared in Superman #132,
October 1959. It was a 3-Part Novel, with art by Wayne Boring, a plus in my
book, and the story was by Otto Binder. It has been reprinted in The Greatest
Superman Stories Ever Told, in 1987. This book lives up to its name, it is
still in print, and I recommend it to every Superman fan.
The story begins in SupermanÕs Fortress. Batman and Robin have brought
Superman a birthday presentÑphotographs of life on Krypton. Superman is
puzzled. He himself had taken those photos by Òchasing down light rays in
spaceÓ. Batman explains that his real present is the idea to feed the photos
into the Super-Univac, and ask it to predict the answer to the question: ÒWhat
would SupermanÕs life have been, if Krypton had not exploded?Ó
George Lucas would kill to get his hands on a storytelling tool like the
Super-Univac. Not only could it interpolate a scenario for a personÕs entire
life, it could choose just the right camera angles, edit out long segments
that didnÕt further the story, and synthesize actors, sets, costumes, and
dialog. I think Super-UnivacÕs secret identity was Mort Weisinger!
The story-within-a-story begins with Jor-El and Lara firing Kal-El away in a
rocket. Then the narrator, Super-Univac, announces, ÒAttention! History will
now change!Ó The quakes stop. Jor-ElÕs fellow scientist pulls off a last
minute save with his Òanti-atomic rayÓ, which reverses the chain reaction.
But wait! Kal-El is on his way to Earth! Jor-El intercepts the rocket with
a missile, and the baby is safe.
As Kal-El grows, we observe many details of daily life on KryptonÑpush-button
food replicators, robot playmates, microbe rays that wipe out viruses,
telepathy helmets in school. Throughout the story, we frequently see Superman
observing on his Super-Univac screen, commenting, ÒI wouldnÕt have had any
super powers on Krypton.Ó Average readers in those days were under 12, and
might not have made the connection.
We see Kryptonese Boy Scouts performing interstellar good deeds. Kal-El scans
Earth with his super-telescope, and sees a coupleÕs car about to plunge into a
lake and drown. He sends a heat ray to evaporate the lake, without harming
. . . could it be? . . . why, itÕs Jonathan and Martha Kent! What a
coincidence!
Time passes. Kal-El has a little brother, Zal-El. KalÕs dream is to be a
member of the Space Patrol when he grows up. He hopes the Skill Machine
agrees. Skill Machine?! ItÕs an electronic dictator! In Kal-ElÕs final
year of school, his favorite teacher, Xan-Du, administers the Skill MachineÕs
test. Kal is assigned to the Space Patrol, but as a dispatcher, not as an
adventurer! Xan-Du gently reminds his unhappy pupil, ÒThe Skill Machine is
never wrong, lad. Its verdict is law.Ó
To help Kal get over his disappointment, Xan-Du shows him an experimental
machine heÕs been working on, a Òsuper-staticÓ ray. Abruptly, Krypto
playfully bounds into the room, knocking the ray so that it hits Xan-Du,
and also Krypto. Later, they discover that the ray has given them super
powers.
Kal-El goes to a costume party. He decides to dress as an Earthman, since he
has observed Earth for so long. He wears glasses and a blue suit, and looks
just like . . . gosh, itÕs Clark Kent! Will the coincidences never end?
The party is held on a floating sky palace. But the anti-gravity device
fails! The partygoers plunge toward their deathsÑClark Kent among them.
But Xan-Du, in his masked identity as Futuro, saves the day. Kal-El notices
that Krypto also has powers, remembers the accident, and puts two and two
together. He becomes FuturoÕs pal, his Jimmy Olsen. He even gets a signal
watch. Futuro continues to maintain his identity as meek professor Xan-Du.
After all, the Skill Machine mandated that he be a teacher.
At KalÕs new job, he is monitoring the construction of a fake Krypton, a
decoy to mislead invaders. Kal observes a workman trapped inside and signals
Futuro, who is preoccupied with another crisis. So Kal borrows a rocket and
uses his wits to rescue the worker. Because of KalÕs heroics, Futuro gets him
another test from Herr Skill Machine. FuturoÕs x-ray vision discovers a loose
wire in Der Career Fuhrer. Kal is then correctly assigned a career as an Ace
for the Space Patrol. (The decoy Krypton shows up in another Superman on
Krypton story, years later.)
But tragedy lurksÑJor-El, Lara, and little brother Zal are in a rocket to
visit their son at his space outpost. They crash into an asteroid, but
survive, and signal Kal. Just as he approaches in his ship, the asteroid
explodes, killing his family. We see him in his Space Patrol uniform, which
looks exactly like SupermanÕs uniform.
More time passes. A spaceship from Earth arrives on Krypton. A stowaway is
discovered: a snoopy female reporter names Lois Lane. She meets Futuro and
Kal-El, and falls for the one with powers. The feeling is mutual, and they
plan to marry. But Lois wants to live on Earth. Futuro is willing to go, but
wants to pick a successor. He uses his ray on Kal-El, who ends up becoming
Superman after all. In the last panel, Kal-El thinks out loud, ÒI thought of
a name for myself out of thin air . . . Superman!Ó UNCANNY! It has a better
ring to it than Futuro II.
Coincidences were a hallmark of WeisingerÕs Superman, and nowhere more than in
imaginary stories. The theme seemed to be that Superman was fated to be, and
that in any alternate universe things would eventually work out the right way.
Next issue: from Superman #141, 1960: Superman finds himself stuck in the
past, on a Krypton that is about to explode. Not a dream! Not a hoax! Not
an imaginary story!
[Aside to reader Jeff Epstein, who requested me to identify the issue in
which Lex Luthor traveled back in time to Krypton, in order to steal Lara
from Jor-El: Sorry, I havenÕt been able to identify the issue, and when I
replied to your e-mail, my reply was returned as undeliverable at that
address. (?) Readers, can anyone identify that issue for us?]
=========================================================
CLARK KENT Ñ LOST OR STOLEN
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By Jon B. Knutson
This was a four-part serial in which coincidence is the driving plot element.
IÕm sure as you read onwards youÕll be amazed at how often coincidence is
used... streching credibility like SupermanÕs indestructible yet stretchible
cape.
The first of four parts appears in Action Comics 371, Jan 69, ÒThe President
of Steel!Ó Clark Kent is dictating a story about a super-computer from
another dimension when an intruder hits him from behind. Faking
unconsciousness, Clark inadvertently presses some buttons on the super-
computer, and is hit by a ray from the computer. The intruder puts Clark in
a helicopter while Clark is out of it from the ray, and sets the copter to
crash.
After the crash, he sees his Superman costume underneath his shredded
clothing, and remembers heÕs Superman, but canÕt recall his secret identity.
Finding some clothing in an abandoned cabin, he returns to Metropolis to try
to puzzle it out. He finally decides he might have told the President his
secret ID, and flies to Washington, where he finds the President is away amid
rumors heÕs disappeared. Superman determines that his secret identity is
that of the president, and disguises himself to look like him.
Later, in the presidentÕs office, Superman hears that a girl is trapped in a
space capsule in the Smithsonian. Guarded, he canÕt change, so he has them
bring him to the Washington Monument. Leaving the guards to block the
elevator, heÕs able to change to Superman to rescue the girl. Flying back
to the monument, he changes back to the president again.
That night, at a reception, the intruder from before appears, dressed as
Clark. The intruder is really an espionage agent. A different agent throws
a smoke bomb at the reception, and the agent disguised as Clark discards the
smoke bomb to divert suspicion from him. Later, Superman hears a message
transmitted by the real president, whoÕs on a secret mission on an aircraft
carrier. Flying out there, he tells the president what heÕs done, but again
heÕs got no secret identity. Seeing an article about ÒThe Wrestling SupermanÓ
having disappeared, he thinks that may be it.
Part 2, in Action Comics #372, Feb. 69, was called (predicably enough), ÒThe
Masked SupermanÓ Suffering from amnesia, Superman thinks his secret identity
may be that of a wrestler called The Masked Superman, who has been missing.
Showing up at the Masked SupermanÕs trailer, Superman dons the mask as
manager Mike Reed shows up.
The two travel to a wrestling arena to arrange for a match, but Superman
discovers that the props for the match have been damaged. Superman flies off
to create real substitutes to replace the damaged fake ones. That night,
Superman, masked, demonstrates his strength and heat vision with the props.
Of course, the crowd thinks itÕs faked.
The match begins, and Superman easily wins. Afterwards, heÕs interviewed by
Lois Lane, but has to leave shortly because of an emergency. While heÕs gone,
Lois searches the trailer, finding Green K in a lead box, leading her to
believe the Masked Superman is really Superman. Returning, Superman uses
his super-breath to blow the Green K into one of his boots, which protects
him from the rays just as the foreign agent disguised as Clark comes in to
take photos.
Later, as he prepares for his next match, a gang of toughs tells him to lose
the next two matches. Of course, he doesnÕt lose, which makes the toughs
angry. After the match, they meet him backstage and shoot at him. Supes
super-freezes the bullets to make them so brittle then crumble to dust when
they hit him, leading the toughs to believe their guns were loaded with
blanks.
Later, Superman finds the real wrestlerÕs identity which tells him heÕs not
the Masked Superman. Superman finds the Masked Superman shipwrecked on an
island, and brings him home.
Action Comics 373, Mar 69 was an 80-page Giant featuring Supergirl, but also
out that month was Action Comics 374, Mar 69, with ÒAlias Super-Thief!Ó
Superman, still unable to remember his secret identity, seeks help at the
Daily Planet, where the spy disguised as Clark Kent helps him look through
the morgue. Going on his regular patrol, he finds that Jud Blake, alias the
Super-Thief, has been missing for some time.
Digging into the underground vault at Super-ThiefÕs hideout, he finds a
painting of himself, as well as Kryptonite stored in a lead box. He also
finds a mask and clothing in his size. He decides he must be Super-Thief,
gathering information for the police. Taking over the identity, he leads
the Super-ThiefÕs men through a series of robberies.
Suddenly, one of his robots enters the hideout. When Superman asks the
robot what his secret identity is, it tells him he is Super-Thief.
Bringing some loot to ÒGemÓ Horton, heÕs unloading gems when an FBI agent
enters. Horton knocks him out, puts the agent in his car, and pushes it off
a cliff, but Superman secretly saves him. When he returns, HortonÕs lair is
abandoned. Returning to the Super-ThiefÕs hideout, he heads the men on an
radio-isotope heist.
Afterwards, Superman visits a psychiatristÕs office, where a word-association
test seems to indicate criminal tendencies. Returning to the Super-ThiefÕs
lair and assuming the identity again, he finds another Super-Thief already
there. When a group of criminals walks in on the two of them, Superman takes
off the disguise, and collects the criminal gang.
It turns out ÒSuper-ThiefÓ is actually an FBI undercover agent, who replaced
the real Super-Thief some time ago. We also discover that the Superman robot
was affected by the amnesia ray (by sheer chance) the same time Superman was,
but Superman doesnÕt find this out himself because the robot blows up.
Everything gets wrapped up in Action Comics 375, Apr 69, ÒThe Big Forget!Ó
Still trying to determine his secret identity, Superman accidentally dresses
just like Clark Kent, and applies for the position of reporter at the
Metropolis Eagle. At the Eagle, they assume heÕs a spy sent by Perry White,
and laugh him out.
Since heÕs ÒmetÓ Clark Kent several times since his amnesia began, he decides
to find out whatÕs going on. Entering the Planet, everyone recognizes him as
Clark. Finding out where his apartment is, he goes over there, and determines
Clark is his secret identity. He also finds notes by the spy impersonating
Clark. Just then, the spy enters the apartment, spots Clark, and calls for
back-up.
Clark knocks the spy out, and when the other spies arrive, he pretends heÕs
the spy. They go to a blimp used as headquarters of the spy group, spots
plenty of evidence against them, and uses super-ventriloquism to alert the
FBI. Clark tells the spies that heÕs got a plan to get ÒKentÓ to give away
SupermanÕs secret identity, since Clark is known to be SupermanÕs best friend.
To accomplish this, Clark says, heÕs put on a Superman outfit to impersonate
Superman. When ÒClarkÓ revives, Superman manages to boggle the spyÕs mind
enough to distract him, while also directing the blimp to US territorial
waters.
Superman punctures the blimp, bringing it down to be captured. He flies off
to Gotham City, where he finds Batman and explains his amnesia. Superman is
reminded of the Bizarros, as well as the location of the Fortress. Flying
there, he uses Bizarro Amnesium to restore his memory.
One thing bothered me about this story... a coincidence that canÕt be taken
lightly. Superman managed to forget everything about being Clark Kent, and
forgot about the Fortress of Solitude, but he remembered where the Batcave
was? I prefer to think that Superman simply flew around Gotham until he
spotted Batman, and was brought to the Batcave afterwards. Of course, this
had to have happened off-panel.
===================================================
End of Section 5
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LOIS AND CLARK: THE NEW ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN
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UP, UP, AND COMING:
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by Jeff Sykes & Jennifer L. Traver
News: New episode information! April 16 brings episode #20 of the second
season in the form of ÒIndividual Responsibility,Ó in which Clark has
an encounter with Red Kryptonite and must try to correct the situation
which has developed between him and Lois in recent episodes. April 23
features the next-to-last new episode of the season, ÒWhine, Whine,
Whine,Ó for which I have no story information. Finally, after two
weeks of either pre-emptions or reruns (one to avoid being pummeled
by JURASSIC PARK), the season finale is scheduled to air on May 14.
Rumors have already begun to circulate about a cliffhanger ending to
the season, and some of these are speculating about a proposal! Of
course, these are just rumors to date (consider the ÒJoey the BugÓ
episode mentioned last month which was apparently scrapped).
Once again we head into the murky waters of Lois and ClarkÕs relationship!
This month, we take a moment to back up and feature reviews of ÒMetalloÓ
and ÒThat Old Gang of Mine,Ó as well as to include the review of ÒThe
PhoenixÓ which was delayed from last month. Next month, weÕll take some
looks at the episodes which have been developing the relationship, as well
as introducing Dan Scardino. These will include the two highest rated
L&C episodes to date, ÒLucky LeonÓ and ÒTempus Fugitive!Ó
Enjoy!
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SCHISM OF COSMIC AND COMIC PROPORTIONS
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By Zoomway
As the second season of Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman winds
to a close, and a new direction is hinted at for the third season, a strange
thing has begun to happen. The comic book, upon which the show is based,
which had been very good at showing most of us readers how wonderful Lois and
Clark could be as a romantic couple and still seek high adventure and work as
the best reporters in Metropolis, is rumored to be putting the breaks on the
comic coupleÕs romance. As IÕve said, this is only a rumor, so bear with me.
I am printing this rumor for a couple of reasons, 1) it is no secret that some
of the DC Comics big shots connected to the Superman titles do not like the
Lois and Clark television series, and have made no secret of their disdain,
and 2) often when people inquire loudly enough and long enough, the powers
that be must address the rumor, thus rendering it a certainty or dismissing
it as a lie. In either case, it ceases to be a rumor. Now, on to the rumor.
It is rumored that Lori Lemaris (for those of you who do not read the comics,
she was a ÔwomanÕ Clark wanted to marry back in his college days) will show up
just in time to destroy Lois and ClarkÕs engagement. The reason I put woman
in quotation marks is because, donÕt laugh, Lori Lemaris is a ....mermaid!
I know that sounds juvenile, and it may be why Lori only made about two
appearances in the modern Superman comics, but thatÕs the rumor. If people
were having trouble believing Clark would be compatible with a human named
Lois Lane, theyÕll have a field day with this fishy story. If the rumor is
true, then a list of suppositions can be conjured; anything from the comics
not wanting to marry off Lois and Clark until the run of the TV series is
over to the comics chickening out and never allowing Lois and Clark to be
married. None of the reasoning is as important as the end result. Somehow,
the thought of Superman dumping Lois for an old flame, no matter how temporary
in nature, is sort of a low blow to the Superman character. It would be hard
to reconcile why the worldÕs greatest hero, known for his honesty, goodness,
and loyalty, would dump Lois Lane. WeÕre talking about a woman who chose the
very difficult path of sharing her life with a man who has to vanish at any
given moment to become Superman. A woman who has to lie to her own family and
friends to cover for ClarkÕs secret. Most of all, a woman who had to suffer
the death of this man virtually alone, because while the world believed
Superman died, Lois knew it was her fiance, Clark Kent.
Now, there is only one way that SupermanÕs reputation for truth, justice and
fidelity can be saved. You guessed it. Lois Lane has to be at fault. This
can be accomplished in a variety of ways. Lois can be missing, but presumed
dead. This is rather hackneyed, but DC has used this in some of its annuals
so they wonÕt have to strain for originality, theyÕll just have to dig through
their oldies but goodies box. Not to mention having Clark weep and mope
riddled with angst before the mermaid splashes into his life again. They can
have Lois turn to another man. This is unlikely, given that sheÕs had
Superman. Where does one go from up? Lois can be so badly traumatized by
some event that she wants nothing to do with Clark, or any man. This too is
unlikely, if merely for the fact that Clark would look like a heartless clod
turning to another fish while Lois is in dry dock. So, if the Lori Lemaris
rumor proves to be true, look for the Death of Lois Lane. She of course wonÕt
get any story arc like Superman or Clark, but sheÕll most likely be dead for a
while nevertheless.
On to the television series. As I mentioned, the show is said to be taking a
whole new direction next season. Many assume this new direction means the
continuing advancement of Lois and ClarkÕs romantic relationship. One reason
this assumption is given credence is because star Teri Hatcher has said that
this new direction will please the fans. Ms. Hatcher, more than any of the
stars of Lois and Clark, seems to understand the fansÕ desire to see the
couple together romantically. This may be the only realistic step the show
can take. Many fans have had to be cajoled into sticking around, especially
during the abysmal first half of second season where action triumphed over
continuity, characterization, and especially romance. Now that the romance
arc is in full swing and speeding toward the season finale, the fans may
actually agree to tune in next September to see how things progress, and tune
in with the high ratings which the romance seems to garner. If the writers
handle this creatively, they could formulate the most astounding take on the
Superman myth that television has ever seen.
So, as the smoke clears, we have rumors of the romance of the century coming
to a screeching halt in the comics, while rumors of the romance growing and
becoming more fulfilling on the television show. It seems ironic that the
comics have somehow lost touch with the John Byrne revamp of Superman, and the
television show seems to understand it so keenly. I might even say that
perhaps ByrneÕs vision is best realized on a TV show if it werenÕt for the
fact that as little as three or four years ago the comics were well written,
poignant, had great subplots and character development. Clark actually worked
at the Daily Planet, and MetropolisÕ greatest newspaper was actually used for
more than just a pit stop for Superman. Now theyÕve returned to the old
Superman-as-punching-bag stories, and Clark is collecting his paycheck from
the Daily Planet under false pretenses. The comics have neither the humor of
the pre-Crisis Superman, nor any of the warmth and humanity of the post-Crisis
Superman. It has stagnated and become a Marvel to behold. The saddest aspect
of all of this is that DC Comics has never stopped to realize how many fans
have picked up the Superman comics simply because they love the television
show so much. It can only be hoped that soon DC will realize that the twenty
or so million who tune in Lois and Clark, do so ÔdespiteÕ Superman, and not
ÔbecauseÕ of him.
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AND WHO DISGUISED AS...
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By J.D. Rummel (rummel@phoenix.creighton.edu)
A Few Moments with Superman.
The other night I was flipping through the channels, and I spotted George
Reeves yanking off his hat and charging behind a rock. I knew what it
meant. That image is a universal code. Someone was in trouble, and only
one man could do the job. Even now, years down the road it is a special
sensation (sometimes, when I watch the news, when I see disasters, I want
so badly for someone to charge behind a rock, and become someone who makes
a difference). Anyway, when I was a kid, I would wait for the show to
come on. On that old black and white tube I would watch and wonder why
SupermanÕs cape looked purple. My cousins would always wonder why no one
ever shot Superman in the eye, feeling somehow that such a sensitive organ
could not be bulletproof. Because I was a kid, my mom let me wear my
Superman costume under my Sunday suit. Sometimes in the bathroom, in front
of the mirror, I would practice unbuttoning my shirt and pulling it open
to reveal the ÒSÓ symbol. I remember how the cape bunched up in my pants
and made me look like some child with a hideous deformity. Sometimes IÕd
sit in the bathroom with the cape draped forward over my head, and I would
wonder how Superman could get around looking so silly as he answered
natureÕs call.
HowÕd I get here? Oh, yeah, George Reeve running behind the rock. Back
then, I was less aware of how silly the _The Adventures of Superman_ was.
I donÕt wear capes as I go to the bathroom, now, and when I see the show,
I recognize that the Ògreat metropolitan newspaperÓ only appears to have
four employees, that they always wear the same clothes, and that no one,
with the exception of Kent/Superman is very bright. Still, for all the
maturity IÕve achieved, and some people will tell you thatÕs not a lot,
the show can hold me because it offers a few moments where Superman is
real. There are moments in the history of video Superman that grab me
every time:
Reeves looking both ways down the hall, then whipping the glasses off as
he enters the store room. The sight of him soaring through the air as the
theme blares. Watching him charge at the camera and hit the springboard.
Christopher Reeve catching the falling Margot Kidder in Superman the
Movie, and after setting her down telling her that flying is safe. Then
telling her he is, Òa friend,Ó just before gliding upwards into the night
sky.
Christopher Reeve addressing the United Nations in Superman IV. Being told
he needs a sponsor and every hand in the joint going up in support of this
one man.
Today? IÕm sure the same thing goes on. Lois and Clark seems destined for
its third season, and I know that it will offer special moments to its
faithful viewers, moments that will stay with them. Lois and Clark is not
so much a childrenÕs fantasy as an adultÕs. Moments that remain for many
may be Lois and Superman air dancing in her apartment, or maybe just the
sexual tension between the principles. And maybe itÕs progress too.
Looking at these moments I see movement from childhood fantasies to those of
an adult. From wanting to fix the whole world to maybe just meeting one
special person. Maybe.
As I get older, I can recognize as touchstone moments appear for others.
For some it is the Star Wars trilogy. For some, the X Men. Sometimes
friendsÕ kids bring me comic books and want to share this part of their
world with me. During those moments I know that Superman will out live me,
and that such moments are the heart of being alive.
Away.
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EPISODE REVIEWS:
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Episode #7: ÒThat Old Gang of MineÓ
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By Sriya C. Sampath
US Airdate: November 13, 1994
Guest Starring: John Pleshette, Joseph Gian, Amy Hathaway,
Robert Clohessy, Ray Abruzzo, Sal Viscuso, and
William Devane as ÒAl CaponeÓ
Written by: Gene Miller and Karen Kavner
Directed by: Lorraine Senna Ferrara
The episode entitled ÒThat Old Gang of MineÓ opens with Perry and Jimmy
discussing a vintage car that Perry has managed to get for the Daily PlanetÕs
anniversary celebrations. However, a pair impersonating Bonnie and Clyde tie
Jimmy and Perry up, leave them in a closed garage with a car running, and steal
the vintage car. They escape, however, when Jimmy puts the car into reverse
through the garage door.
Back at the Planet, preparations are underway for the anniversary party. Perry
and Jimmy walk in after telling the police their story, only to tell the story
again to Lois and Clark. Lois ties the costume get-ups into a gun robbery the
week before, and the two take off to get on the case.
Lois and Clark enter the final look-alike agency in town and question the owner
about whether or not he represents any gangster look-alikes. He doesnÕt, but
he does tell them about an Emil Hamilton that came in looking for gangster
costumes earlier. While they are here, Clark sees a bank robbery in progress,
with none other than Bonnie and Clyde and John Dillinger. Clark flies in as
Superman, whereupon the gangsters try to shoot him, but of course, fail. They
set off a bomb (which Superman covers) and exit. Clark picks up a ticket stub
thatDillinger drops on his way out as a possible clue. Jimmy catches up with
Lois and Clark as they are investigating the robbery to inform them that the
stolen vintage car once belonged to the real Clyde and that one man at a morgue
told him that an Emil Hamilton had gangster bodies dug up for bone and hair
samples a few years ago.
Back at the gangstersÕ hideout, Professor Hamilton returns to find the villains
counting their loot. He chastises them for holding up the bank, saying that
they were brought back to help humanity and be reformed. Then the newest
member of the bunch ÒcreatedÓ by the doctor arrives: Al Capone now plans to
take over Metropolis.
At the Planet, Lois and Clark have discovered the professorÕs background on
research into DNA modification to Òshort circuit aggressive behaviorÓ. Jimmy
adds to the mystery by telling them that the fingerprints of the gangsters have
been found to match those of the real gangsters over 60 years before. Lois and
Clark manage to catch up with a source of theirs who informs them that all of
this is a result of an experiment gone bad. While Lois and Clark talk to their
source, Al Capone pays a visit to Perry. He brings back the car and offers to
pay Perry off in exchange for writing him up correctly in the paper. Perry,
not realizing he is the real Capone, tosses him out summarily, but is later
enlightened as to his true identity by Jimmy. Meanwhile, Bobby Big Mouth tells
Lois and Clark that Capone plans to take over Georgie HairdoÕs illegal gaming
club tonight.
Lois and Clark go to the club that night. During the evening, Clark finds out
that Bonnie and Clyde are at the club, and Lois finds out that Georgie Hairdo
has been found murdered. Soon after these discoveries, Capone walks in with
Dillinger and a bigger gang to inform the patrons that he now owns the club.
Dillinger hits on Lois, and in the process of defending her, Clark gets shot
by Clyde. Clark pretends to be shot dead (in order to preserve his identity),
is taken from the arms of a sobbing Lois by the gangsters, and is dropped out
of a car in the middle of nowhere.
Headlines announce the death of Clark Kent. Jimmy, broken up over the news,
tries to talk to Perry about how he feels about his death. Perry comforts him
and tells him that the anniversary party will go on in ClarkÕs honor. Lois
comes back to the Planet because she can no longer sit at home and keep running
over ClarkÕs death in her mind. She blames herself for his death, and regrets
that he died without ever knowing how she felt about him. A detective comes in
to get her to sign her statement, and from him she finds a possible location
for the gangÕs whereabouts. She rushes off to investigate.
Meanwhile, Clark is talking with his parents about what it means for him to
not be able to hang out with his friends as Clark Kent any longer. His job,
his friends, and the life he built for himself have all been torn away from
him. His parents convince him that regardless of how he feels, he has a duty
as Superman to look out for his friends and Metropolis. He agrees, but his
only lead is the ticket stub Dillinger dropped. Pa Kent then tells him that
this was the way the FBI caught him 60 years ago...while coming out of a movie
theater. He catches Dillinger and forces him to tell where Capone is hiding
out.
Lois goes in search of the gang and breaks into Dr. HamiltonÕs lab. She
catches him in the act of creating more gangsters. He admits to creating them
and to the fact that he is no longer able to control them. As a matter of
fact, Capone has locked him up in the lab to bring back more of his gang. Lois
and the doctor try to escape from the lab, but Capone catches them. The
gangsters put both of them in a rising vat of liquid cement (tied up, of
course) and then leave to crash the PlanetÕs anniversary party and kill the
important people who will be there, if they canÕt be bought. Superman arrives
by homing into LoisÕ pager. He rescues her and Dr. Hamilton and leaves. As
Lois is talking to the professor, Clark walks up to them. Lois hugs him and
then wants to know how he is alive. He tells them that Superman found him and
used the professorÕs process to bring him back. Lois is overjoyed, but
dismayed at the fact that the gangsters will soon be at the Planet. She and
Clark take off to warn the people there that the gangsters are coming.
Lois and Clark arrive at the Planet. While she calls the police, he takes off
upstairs and changes into Superman. The gangsters have already arrived, and as
they start to shoot randomly into the crowd of people, Superman steps forward
and catches all of the bullets. He forces them to drop their guns by using his
heat vision and rushes off to capture the fleeing Capone, while Jimmy tackles
Clyde and Lois battles Bonnie. The good news that Clark is alive is soon
delivered to Jimmy and Perry, and they are also informed by Dr. Hamilton that
he burned his lab and destroyed all the research.
After all of the excitement of the day, Lois is giving Clark a ride home. In
the car, she reveals to Clark that she might have feelings for him beyond
friendship, but he is, predictably, asleep.
If this episode is viewed in the order in which episodes were aired this
season, it stands out as a bright spot amongst some of the more forgettable
episodes. There was a little of everything to please everybody. We got to
see lots of interaction between Perry and Jimmy, at least one scene with Ma
and Pa Kent (my favorites), and even a little movement in the romance between
Lois and Clark.
Many people felt that the ending of the episode was a cheat, kind of like
ClarkÕs retraction of his declaration of love for Lois at the end of last
season. However, I personally felt that after last season, Lois wasnÕt really
showing that she was beginning to feel something for Clark. It was nice to
know that this has sort of been in the back of her mind, even though it took a
near tragedy to make her examine the feelings further. It was enough for me to
see what she felt. Clark doesnÕt necessarily have to know everything, just as
long as _I_ do. As Tara OÕShea on the LOISCLA listserv said about last season:
ÒTwo steps forward and one step back is still a step forward.Ó
Another point of controversy that has been stewing for some time has been the
replacement of Michael Landes in the role of Jimmy Olsen by Justin Whalen. For
me, this episode entirely settled that point. Justin did a great job in this
episode: his grief over ClarkÕs death was wonderfully done. His scene with
Perry right after Clark ÒdiedÓ was quite touching, and at that moment, he came
entirely into his own. His joy over Clark being alive, and the play between
them as they get off the elevator in the second to last scene, was very fun to
watch. After this, I jumped right on the Justin Whalen bandwagon.
And speaking of grief, arguably the best scene in the entire episode was when
Lois comes into the Planet in a grief-stricken haze after ClarkÕs death. Teri
Hatcher looked throughout the scene like she was an emotional wreck on the
verge of a nervous breakdown. I was so impressed by how understated, and yet
so poignant, the acting was. These two scenes back to back with the scene
where Clark tells his parents how much his life _as Clark_ means to him packed
a big emotional wallop, in a big contrast to the light fun and humor of the
rest of the episode (especially the hilarious scene with the Superman
impersonator).
The downside of the whole episode was the hammy nature of the villains
that were brought back. They were funny, but pretty unbelievable as gangsters,
and at times, a little over the top. BonnieÕs lust for men, AlÕs referring to
himself in the third person, and their blood-thirstiness, just went too far, to
the point of caricaturing real life personalities. There were so many other
moments that were notable for humor or sadness that these were extraneous and
often annoying.
Another nitpick I had with the episode was the total lack of regard to science
as it is today. IÕm as willing to suspend disbelief as the next gal, but
ClarkÕs explanation to Lois of how he came to be alive sounded weak and really
inane. Maybe if he had just explained it a little better than ÒI was frozen
with super-breath and brought back from the deadÓ it would have been more
palatable. However, as it was, a child would have been hard-pressed to suspend
disbelief.
Finally, I thought that the way that Perry was done in this episode was very
cold. When Jimmy and Lois are pouring their hearts out to him over ClarkÕs
death, he seems to be almost a man of stone. Only at the end, when he is
ÒeulogizingÓ Clark at the party does he show any emotion (and that too, not
in words so much as in action). I think that Perry would be more broken up
over the death of an employee, close friend, and almost a son than he looked
to be. Would he just tell Jimmy to buck up, and by the way the party will
still be going on as planned? I donÕt think so. A break in voice or an ÒI
know how youÕre feeling...IÕll miss him a lot too JimmyÓ would have gone a
long way for me in this scene, or even in his scene with Lois.
Overall, I thought the episode was one of the better ones this season. Most
of my gripes had to do with the way a character was written to be in the show.
In contrast, the acting was exceptional and impressive, especially the
performances turned in by Teri Hatcher and Justin Whalen. The actors took a
barely-above-average script and made it into something so much more. I would
give the episode an 8.9, reserving the 9Õs for some of the better _written_
episodes this season.
===================================================
End of Section 6
===================================================
EPISODE REVIEWS (cont):
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Episode #10: ÒMetalloÓ
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By Marta Olson
US Airdate: January 1, 1995
Guest Starring: Scott Valentine, John Rubinstein, Roxana Zal,
Louis Mustillo, Dee Dee Rescher, Mary Pat Gleason,
and Christian Clemenson as ÒRollie ValeÓ
Teleplay by: Tony Blake and Paul Jackson
Story by: James Crocker
Directed by: James R. Bagdonas
ÒHow long will the legacy of Lex Luthor continue to haunt Metropolis?Ó Lois
asks at one point during this tale of robotics and evil scientists. Our first
glimpse in this episode is of a robbery in progress at a jewelry store. The
police arrive and order the thief to stop. When he does not, they fire at him
but he keeps advancing. They call for backup, at which point the thief falls
over as if dead. Lois and Clark arrive on the scene to investigate and learn
that the thief was a robot. We find out later that the robot malfunctioned
due to the radio waves from the police radio interfering with his computer
brain. In order to stop this from happening again, the scientists decide to
use a human brain the next time.
Lucy Lane is back from California and working as a waitress at a diner. She
is also dating Johnny Corbin, who Lois takes an immediate dislike to when she
meets him.
Lois and Clark find out that the only two places in Metropolis with the robotics
technology are Lex Labs of LexCorp, which is now closed, and Star Labs, which
has laid off a large number of itÕs employees.
Lois also runs a check on Johnny and finds out he has a police record. When
she tries to call Lucy to tell her, Clark urges her to think about it a little
bit more. Jimmy is distracted at work, but we find out that he is having to
look for a new place to live because his rent went up. Lois and Clark
encourage him to ask Perry for a raise instead. He is determined to impress
Perry with his pictures before asking for the raise.
Our scientists this time are brothers, Emmett and Rollie Vale. Emmett used to
work for Lex Labs with robotics and was also involved in the testing of
kryptonite. The previous robots have been powered using uranium capsules, but
since they are running out of uranium and will be using a human brain for the
next robot, they are going to use the kryptonite to power the next one.
During an attempted armored car robbery, Johnny is fatally wounded. His
partner Angel has heard the scientists are offering money in exchange for a
living human brain. Angel calls them and the next thing Johnny knows, when
he wakes up he is walking funny and he has no feeling in his body. When he
finds out how strong he is and that, Òlike the bunny,Ó he will never run out
of power, he feels much better.
Lois and Clark find out that a uranium shipment from Lex Labs was reported
missing by Emmett Vale and decide to pursue this lead. Lois decides she has
to tell Lucy about JohnnyÕs record, but unsure how to do it, she leaves a
copy on the table where they are eating. Lucy is finds it and is very hurt
by Lois telling her about it.
EmmettÕs ex-wife tells Lois and Clark that his dream was always to build a
cyborg - part man, part machine. An ATM is robbed but the security camera
takes a picture of the thief. Lois and Clark are able to identify Johnny from
the picture. Superman meets Johnny when Johnny goes after Angel for turning
him over to the scientists. The kryptonite starts affecting Superman, so
Johnny is able to throw him around some. Lois stops Jimmy from taking pictures
while Superman is down and apparently beaten.
Perry is furious when Jimmy doesnÕt have the pictures of Superman down. Jimmy
says he ran out of film, but Lois steps in and admits she told him not to take
the pictures. Perry chastises her for letting personal feelings get in the way
of reporting the news. Emmett and Rollie decide to kidnap someone close to
Superman in order to lure Superman in so that Johnny can kill him. With
everything pointing to Emmett and Rollie, Lois and Clark turn their attention
to them.
You can imagine the rest of this episode without too many gaps until you get
to the kidnapping of - SURPRISE!!! Clark. It was nice to see Lois and Jimmy
working with Lucy to free Clark instead of Superman just swooping on in and
saving the day.
The continuity is better in this episode but not perfect in any way. After
SupermanÕs first fight with Johnny, he has a cut on his forehead. He uses a
mirror and his heat vision to seal the cut and it heals. In ÒMadame Ex,Ó when
Lois removes the bullet from his shoulder, the healing begins on its own and
is done in a matter of seconds. It also would have been nice if Lois would
have curled up with the stuffed animal Clark won for her in Smallville (in
Green, Green Glow of Home) instead of a pillow after SupermanÕs visit. For
more on this, watch the episode.
There is very little (if any) romance between Lois and Clark, but there is a
little bit regarding relationships. We get a glimpse of Lois and LucyÕs
relationship and a little bit of JimmyÕs relationships with his co-workers.
Scott Valentine, known most recently as MalloryÕs boyfriend Nick on ÒFamily
TiesÓ is just obnoxious enough as Johnny to make you really want him to get
his due punishment. When he does, thanks to both Superman and Rollie Vale, I
almost felt sorry for him. Roxanna Zal is refreshing as Lucy. She resembles
Teri Hatcher, is bright, intelligent, and it would be a pleasure to see her
again as Lucy.
The most disappointing thing about this episode was a scene from the preview
that was evidently cut. Lucy tells Lois that if she were Lois, she would give
up on Superman and go after that hunk Clark. I would really have liked to
have seen LoisÕ response to that.
=========================================================
Episode #13: ÒThe PhoenixÓ
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By Jennifer Traver
US Airdate: February 12, 1995
Special Appearance: John Shea as ÒLex LuthorÓ
Guest Starring: Denise Crosby, Tony Jay, Barry Livingston,
Sal Viscuso, and Christian Clemenson as ÒRollie ValeÓ
Written by: Tony Blake and Paul Jackson
Directed by: Philip J. Sgriccia
This is one episode that has been a long time in coming. Moving Lois and
ClarkÕs episode to a romantic plateau and the return of Lex Luthor (however
briefly) to the scene are things I have been expecting since last season.
ÒThe PhoenixÓ, in my opinion, was a very well done episode, with just the
right mix of villainous behavior and good old fashioned romance. I was very
happy with it.
The episode opens in a dark dingy laboratory with LuthorÕs doctor, Gretchen
Kelly, attending. Suddenly, Lex LuthorÕs arm breaks the glass of his
sarcophagus, rising eerily to the ceiling, with dismaying delight on the parts
of Dr. Kelly and the viewer.
Upon LexÕs rise from the dead, he enacts a scheme to regain control of
Metropolis from Intergang, the new powerful group of villains in town. Along
with this, he plans to destroy Superman with kryptonite he will obtain from
Rollie Vale, the surviving evil scientist from the ÒMetalloÓ episode.
Meanwhile, back at the Planet, Clark has been daydreaming about Lois and
finally gets up the nerve to ask her out. Flabbergasted, she agrees. The
two plan to see Pearl Jam in concert (not their taste in my opinion), but
Perry has other plans for them. He sends them on a stakeout reminiscent of
the ÒHoneymoon in MetropolisÓ episode.
During the entire stakeout scene, I must confess, I was squealing like a pig
with delight. Clark, on account of their plans being changed, suggests they
put off their date until another time. Lois, however surprisingly, is not so
eager to return to a platonic relationship. She suggest they consider it a
test run, an Òalmost first dateÓ. So Lois gets out the champagne and goes to
change into something more comfortable. Meanwhile, Clark chills the
champagne with his superbreath and watches Lois disrobe through the frosted
glass to the tune of ÒI Only Have Eyes for YouÓ. She comes out dressed in
Army gray sweats and a tank top and converse sneakers. I wanted to shout
through the TV at that moment: ÒHELLO LOIS!!! ANYBODY HOME???Ó If I were
with Clark, I would at least change into something halfway attractive.
Anyway, Clark purposely burns out the lamp and Lois falls on top of him on
the couch spilling champagne all over him. Now itÕs ClarkÕs turn to change
clothing, and it is Lois that gawks through the glass.
Later, Lois feels sick from the chinese food she ate and Clark rubs her
stomach (kill me now and IÕd die a happy woman!) and carries her to the
bedroom. It all ends innocently here, but I, and many others, IÕm sure,
were dying at home.
The rest of the episode, for me, just goes downhill from here. The best is
over. But the writers wrap up the villainous plot nicely. Lois somehow gets
kidnapped by Lex and he tries to convince her that she still loves him. In
the meantime, LexÕs butler and an accomplice turn against him, as they are
revealed to be members of Intergang. In the fray, Rollie Vale gets shot and
so does Lex. Superman comes in time to save the day, but not in time to save
Gretchen Kelly from being electrocuted. Lex, in despair, attempts the same
thing, but Supes cuts the power. So now Lex is back in jail, and we await
his inevitable breakout. At least Rollie Vale and Gretchen Kelly, two
of the most annoying villains I have ever seen, are gone.
ÒThe PhoenixÓ, in my opinion, was one of the best (and my favorite) episodes
of the season. It was decent as far as the action/adventure part of it went,
and was more than satisfying in the romance department. I was also glad the
writers saved Lois and ClarkÕs actual date for another episode as I felt it
deserved more attention than it could be given here. Now we can only look
forward to more wonderful episodes to come!
===================================================
COMING ATTRACTIONS
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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.
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!
Notes: Great news for Superman fans who have been overwhelmed by the
numerous crossovers of late Ñ June is Batman month at DC! As
a result, there is *much* less Supes stuff this month!
We have some minor cameos this month: Steel and Supergirl (via the
New Titans), along with many other heroes, help to stop nuclear
terrorists in DEATHSTROKE #50. And in the only crossover issue
this month, Supergirl must reveal a dark secret in GREEN LANTERN #65.
(Yay. Ñ DC, please get this girl into her own title and away from
the Titans crew.)
1. List of Titles by Shipping Date:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
Date: Comic title and information:
ÑÑ ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
April 4: Action Comics #710
THE DEATH OF CLARK KENT: Part 3 (of 7)
Michelinie, Guice, & Rodier
$1.95
Guy Gardner: Warrior #31 (Supergirl)
Beau Smith, Byrd, & D. Davis
$1.75
April 11: Deathstroke #48 (Supergirl/New Titans)
THE CRIMELORD/SYNDICATE WAR: Part 1 (of 4)
Wolfman, S. & O. Cariello, & Blyberg
$2.25
Loose Cannon #1 (of 4)
Jeph Loeb & Adam Pollina
$1.75
The New Titans Annual #11
Wolfman, Land, Champagne & Blyberg
64 pgs, $3.95
Superboy #16
K. Kesel, Grummett, & Hazlewood
$1.95
Superman: The Man of Steel #45
THE DEATH OF CLARK KENT: Part 4 (of 7)
L. Simonson, Bogdanove, & Janke
$1.95
April 18: The New Titans #122
THE CRIMELORD/SYNDICATE WAR: Part 2 (of 4)
Wolfman, Rosado, & Champagne
$2.25
Showcase Ô95 #5 (of 12)
Thorn story (Part 2 of 2)
Stern, Simpson, & Stegbauer
48 pgs, $2.95
Superman #101
THE DEATH OF CLARK KENT: Part 5 (of 7)
Jurgens, G. Kane, Breeding & Rubinstein
$1.95
April 25: Adventures of Superman #524
THE DEATH OF CLARK KENT: Part 6 (of 7)
K. Kesel, Immonen, & Marzan Jr.
$1.95
Steel #16
L. Simonson, Batista, & Faber
$1.95
APRIL Super-FanÕs Total: $20.85
Hopeless CompletistÕs Total: $26.60
May 2: Action Comics #711
THE DEATH OF CLARK KENT: Part 7 (of 7)
Michelinie, Guice, & Rodier
$1.95
May 9: The Darkstars #32 (Supergirl/New Titans)
THE CRIMELORD/SYNDICATE WAR: Part 3 (of 4)
Friedman, Collins, & Branch
Cover by Mike Deodato Jr.
$2.25
Deathstroke #49 (Supergirl/New Titans)
THE CRIMELORD/SYNDICATE WAR: Part 4 (of 4)
Wolfman, S. Cariello, & Blyberg
$2.25
Loose Cannon #2 (of 4)
Loeb & Pollina
$1.75
Superboy #17
K. Kesel, Grummett, & Hazlewood
$1.95
Superman: The Man of Steel #46
L. Simonson, Bogdanove, & Janke
$1.95
May 16: Black Lightning #6 (Gangbuster)
Isabella & Newell
$2.25
Green Lantern #64 (Superman)
PARALLAX VIEW: THE RESURRECTION OF HAL JORDAN: Part 2 (of 2)
Marz, Banks, & Tanghal
$1.75
The New Titans #123
Wolfman & Friedman, S. Jones, & Rankin
$2.25
Superman #102
Jurgens, G. Kane, & Rubinstein
Cover by Jurgens & Rubinstein
$1.95
Superman Annual #7
Stern & Gossett
Cover by Walt Simonson
56 pgs, $3.95
Showcase Ô95 #6 (of 12)
Bibbo Story!
Mike Carlin & Denis Rodier
48 pgs, $2.95
May 23: Adventures of Superman #525
K. Kesel, Immonen, & Marzan Jr.
$1.95
Aquaman Annual #1 (Superman)
David, P. Jimenez & Various, Shum & Various
56 pgs, $3.50
Steel #17
Michelinie, Batista, & Faber
$1.95
Superman vs. Aliens #1 (of 3)
from DC and Dark Horse
Dan Jurgens with Kevin Nowlan
48 pgs, $4.95
May 30: SUPERMAN: THE MAN OF TOMORROW #1
Stern, Grummett, & Breeding
$1.95
MAY Super-FanÕs Total: $22.80
Hopeless CompletistÕs Total: $41.50 (!!!)
June 6: Action Comics #712
Michelinie, Dwyer, & Rodier
$1.95
June 13: Loose Cannon #3 (of 4)
Loeb & Pollina
$1.75
Superboy #18
K. Kesel, Grummett, & Hazlewood
$1.95
Superman: The Man of Steel #47
L. Simonson, Bogdanove, & Janke
$1.95
June 20: The New Titans #124
THE SIEGE OF ZI CHARAM: Part 1 (of 5)
Wolfman, S. Jones, & Rankin
$2.25
Showcase Ô95 #7 (of 12)
Mongul story - Part 1 (of 2)
Tomasi, Eaton, & Eklund
$2.95
Superman #103
Jurgens, G. Kane, & Rubinstein
$1.95
Superman vs. Aliens #2 (of 3)
from DC and Dark Horse
Dan Jurgens with Kevin Nowlan
$4.95
June 27: Adventures of Superman #526
K. Kesel & Damaggio
Cover by Immonen and Marzan
$1.95
Green Lantern #65
THE SIEGE OF ZI CHARAM: Part 2 (of 5)
Marz, Lim, & Tanghal
$1.75
Steel #18
Michelinie, Gosier, & Faber
$1.95
JUNE Super-FanÕs Total: $16.90
Hopeless CompletistÕs Total: $25.35
2. Spoilers:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑ
June 6:
ÑÑÑ
Action Comics #712
New penciller Kieron Dwyer joins the ACTION COMICS creative team as
Superman fights to save Jimmy Olsen from the deathtraps left over from
ÒThe Death of Clark Kent.Ó
June 13:
ÑÑÑ-
Loose Cannon #3 (of 4)
The Eradicator guest-stars as Maggie Sawyer secures his help in stopping
Loose Cannon. But their savage battle pushes Loose CannonÕs temper to
the limit...and takes his powers to a new, deadly level.
Superboy #18
Superboy battles Valor, whoÕs suffering from amnesia and lead poisoning,
as the criminal world takes bets on the fight. Plus, Roxy makes a
decision about her future.
Superman: The Man of Steel #47
Perry White and Franklin Stern expose an experimental eugenics project
from thirty years ago, providing important clues to solving the mystery
of the deadly menace that has become known as Bloodsport.
June 20:
ÑÑÑ-
The New Titans #124
THE SIEGE OF ZI CHARAM: Part 1 (of 5) - When the Titans try to stop an
anomalous gravity well from destroying the solar system, the team is
flung across the universe and dropped into the midst of a cosmic war!
A race known as the Progenitors has been sweeping through space on a
mission of conquest, and its next target is the Zi Charam galaxy. The
Titans, of course, are in the way!
Showcase Ô95 #7
In Part One of a two-part story, MongulÕs rehabilitation is not what it
seems as the alien destroyer of Coast City breaks free from his prison
and heads into space on a mission of death and destruction in a tale
written by Peter Tomasi, with art by Scot Eaton and Pam Eklund. The
two backups feature a tale of Arion and a story about the New Gods.
Superman #103
The origin os the mysterious arsonist Arclight is revealed, a Daily
Planet expose puts a serial killer behind bars, and a key mamber of
the Planet staff quits.
Superman vs. Aliens #2 (of 3)
In the far corners of space, EarthÕs yellow sun is a distant memory to
Superman. Without its nurturing glow, his powers are fading fast. Will
they hold out long enough for him to save the domed city of Argo from an
infestation of Aliens, or is the Man of Steel doomed to die amongst what
may be the ruins of his long-lost Krypton? ItÕs the ultimate hero
against the ultimate horror as Superman battles an Alien queen and her
overgrown hive!
June 27:
ÑÑÑ-
Adventures of Superman #526
ItÕs Bloodsport vs. Bloodsport as both villains whoÕve born the name
square off on StrykerÕs Island. Their battle sets off a riot and allows
a deadly serial killer to escape, spelling trouble for Lois Lane.
Green Lantern #65
THE SIEGE OF ZI CHARAM: Part 2 (of 5) - Supergirl must reveal a dark
secret to Green Lantern if the two heroes are to have any hope of
freeing the captured Titans from the alien Progenitors.
Steel #18
ThereÕs more to the abduction of SteelÕs nephew than meets the eye,
as John Henry Irons learns that what seems to be the random act of a
psychopath may actually be a strike by one of SteelÕs enemies.
===================================================
End of Section 7
===================================================
ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD #6
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|S|T|R|E|A|K|Y| | |C|A|T|
|U|R|U| | | | |E|R|O|D|E|
|P|A| | | |D|A|X|A|M| |R|
|E|D|A|M| |A| |O| |E|B|R|
|R|E|L|O|A|D|S| | |T|E|A|
|P|R|A|N|K|S|T|E|R| |P|M|
|E| | |K|A| |A| | |S|P|A|
|T| |B|E| |K|R|Y|P|T|O|N|
|S|T|A|Y| | |L|A|R|A| | |
| |I|N| | |V|A|L|O|R| | |
|A|R|G|O| | |B|E|T|T|Y| |
| |E| |W|G|B|S| |Y| | | |
===================================================
RESOURCES
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Instructions for obtaining the complete resources file can be found below.
This monthÕs new information:
FTP Availability:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ
Kryptonian Cybernet Files:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ-
phoenix.creighton.edu
/pub/zines/kc
kcresrcs.txt (25103) - This file
kc95.zip (xxxxxx) - a zipped file containing all 1995 issues
kc95-04.txt (161641) - Issue #12, April 1995
Lois and Clark Files:
ÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑÑ
Text:
ftp.hyperion.com
/pub/TV/Lois-and-Clark
LC.EpGuide1 (13099) - Jeffery D. SykesÕ first season episode
guide for Lois & Clark
LC.EpGuide2 (11719) - Updated Second Season episode guide for L&C
(through episode #18)
LC1.zip (117213) - a zipped file containing the first season
episode guide and all summaries
lnc_faq.txt (26701) - Bob PhelpsÕ FAQ for Lois & Clark and the
LOISCLA listserv
Pictures:
ftp.hyperion.com
/pub/TV/Lois-and-Clark
Index.jpg (212802) - a 979x869 thumbnail index of all pictures in
the directory
{Note: a thumbnail index displays every picture indexed at a reduced size}
{Note: All of the Thatch pictures have been converted to *.jpg files}
{ which now take up less memory }
THatch01.jpg (76994) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri Hatcher from
a talk show appearance (?)
THatch02.jpg (55404) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri Hatcher from
a pre-L&C program (long hair)
THatch03.jpg (60178) - a 640x512 picture of Lois showing Clark
some leg (from ÒPheremone, My LovelyÓ)
THatch04.jpg (48773) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
THatch05.jpg (41130) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
THatch06.jpg (61204) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
THatch07.jpg (58019) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C (in
the car in ÒThe Green, Green Glow of HomeÓ)
THatch08.jpg (56285) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
THatch09.jpg (44307) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C (the
bottom part of the picture is missing)
THatch10.jpg (71492) - a 640x512 picture of Teri in red outfit
with a little bit of her black bra showing
(from ÒWitnessÓ - two full length shots)
THatch11.jpg (59140) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
(from ÒWitnessÓ - same outfit)
THatch13.jpg (58017) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C (from
ÒWitness - on phone before attacked in apt)
THatch14.jpg (60292) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
THatch15.jpg (52609) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
THatch16.jpg (52721) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
THatch17.jpg (55096) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
THatch18.jpg (55338) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
THatch19.jpg (54599) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
(from end of ÒStrange VisitorÓ)
THatch20.jpg (56954) - a 640x512 head shot of Teri from L&C
(from end of ÒStrange VisitorÓ)
THatch21.jpg (42853) - a 640x512 head shot of Lois on LexÕs plane
THatch22.jpg (45485) - a 640x512 head shot of Lois
THatch23.jpg (49543) - a 640x512 head shot of Lois
THatch24.jpg (42655) - a 640x512 picture of Lois wearing nightgown and
facing Superman
THatch25.jpg (41035) - a 640x512 head shot of Lois
THatch26.jpg (51524) - a 640x512 head shot of Lois
THatch27.jpg (42787) - a 640x512 head shot of Lois
THatch28.jpg (50101) - a 640x512 picture of Lois in bed and talking on
the phone
THatch29.jpg (44126) - a 640x512 close-up of Lois on the phone
THatch30.jpg (54059) - a 640x512 picture of Lois at the wheel of her car
THatch31.jpg (49486) - a 640x512 close-up of Lois at the wheel
THatch32.jpg (50142) - a 640x512 picture of Lois in her wedding dress in
front of the mirror
THatch33.jpg (50969) - a 640x512 picture of Lois in her wedding dress in
front of the mirror
THatch34.jpg (49280) - a 640x512 b&w version (from flashback) of
THatch03.jpg Ñ see above
THatch35.jpg (45084) - a 640x512 picture of veiled Lois during the
wedding ceremony
THatch36.jpg (46645) - a 640x512 picture of veiled Lois during the
wedding ceremony
THatch37.jpg (50959) - a 640x512 picture of unveiled Lois during the
wedding ceremony
THatch38.jpg (48479) - a 640x512 picture of unveiled Lois during the
wedding ceremony
THatch39.jpg (47275) - a 640x512 head-shot of Lois looking up
at Superman
THatch40.jpg (47579) - a 640x512 head-shot of Lois looking up
at Superman
deancain.jpg (370979) - a 594x812 picture of Dean Cain in a white long-
sleeved shirt and dark vest
notdean.jpg (9470) - a 234x251 picture of a Dean Cain lookalike:
Daniel Amalm, an Australian actor
There is now a subdirectory (Thumb) which contains thumbnail-size
versions of each of the above pictures. The following pictures have
been removed since the last issue:
CAT-G-4.GIF, CAT-G-5.GIF, CAT-G-6.GIF, CAT-G-7.GIF, CAT-G-8.GIF,
CAT-G-9.GIF, TH-Idx-1.GIF, TH-Idx-2.JPG, THatch12.GIF
How to obtain the complete Resources file:
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Note that the file also contains information about how to use ftp and
ftp e-mail. The file will be located at phoenix.creighton.edu in the
directory /pub/zines/kc and at ftp.hiof.no in the directory
/pub/Comics/Fanzines. For those of you who do not know how to use ftp
or donÕt have ftp access, e-mail a message to either of the addresses
given below. For the body of your message include only the lines
between the dashes below.
Addresses: ftpmail@decwrl.dec.com or ftpmail@sunsite.unc.edu
Body:
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connect phoenix.creighton.edu
chdir /pub/zines/kc
get kcresrcs.txt
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Do not include the lines of dashes, and do not include anything else
in the body of the message. You will receive a message telling you
that your request has been queued. Then, about a day later, you will
receive the file itself.
===================================================
CLASSIFIEDS
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Stanford Comics Co-op
If you live in the San Francisco Bay area and are interested in saving a
substantial amount on your new Superman comics, then consider the Stanford
Comics Co-op! The Co-op does not conduct mail order business and thus serves
only customers local to the SF Bay area. Since the cooperative exists solely
to save its members money on new comics, it does not make a net profit (there
is only a $2 monthly fee to cover expenses). You can save 40% off retail
price for Superman & other new comics and related merchandise. With the
imminent price increases at DC, thatÕs a savings which amounts to no small
change!
For more information on the Co-op or to join, contact the manager, Jerry Lee,
at (415) 497-3695 or wrenstar@leland.stanford.edu. Assistant Manger David
Chappell can be reached at (415) 497-4422 or davidc@leland.stanford.edu.
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Drink Soder Cola - ÒItÕs Just RightÓ
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SUPERMAN: THE MAN OF STEEL PLATINUM SERIES TRADING CARDS
I am selling and trading cards from the recent Man of Steel set. These are
all premium edition cards (the fancier ones with the steel embossing). The
oversized cards are beautifully painted with scenes from the life of Superman.
A complete set of cards sells for $30 including postage. I also have several
extra singles for trade and am looking for other singles. The cards belong
to David Chappell, but Loretta Jackson (lmj@crl.com) is handling all sales
and trades.
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SUPERMAN: THE MAN OF STEEL and DC MASTER SERIES Cards For Sale!
MOS Platinum Edition Sets (3): $30 each
MOS CollectorÕs Edition Set: $10
MOS Spectra-Etch Cards (S1,S5,S6): $5 each
DC Master Series Sets (2): $15 each
In addition, I have many singles from each of the three sets which are
for sale. I will pay for postage on all transactions. Any purchase of
$30 or more will be mailed by 2-day priority mail in the continental US.
Also, I am looking for the double-sided spectra-etch card DS5 from
the DC Master Series Set.
For any additional information or to make a purchase, contact Jeff Sykes
at sykes@ms.uky.edu.
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If you would like to place an ad, send it to one of the following addresses:
Arthur.E.LaMarche@Dartmouth.edu, sykes@ms.uky.edu, or KryptonCN@aol.com.
Try to keep your ads fairly short.
All advertisements must be received by the second Monday of the month to
be included in the next issue of the magazine. Be certain to include
your e-mail address in the ad.
===================================================
THE MAILBAG
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From Lee K. Seitz (lkseitz@seitz.b11.ingr.com)
[Regarding cheaper video tapes of the Fleischer cartoons]
This is true and I have purchased a few of them. The quality
is decent, but I would rather wait until I have the money to buy the
letterboxed versions. I also have a small warning. I bought two of
these tapes at BudÕs, a clearinghouse store for Wal-Mart. What was
supposed to be two different tapes (in different boxes with different
episodes listed on them) turned out to be the same tape, but the
second one was in black & white! 8( Of course, itÕs entirely possible
this is the reason they were for sale at BudÕs instead of Wal-Mart.
Also, on another topic. I would really like to see a review
of the *first* SUPERMAN #100 in honor of the latest SUPERMAN #100. I
do not own that issue and expect it is hard to come by. If any of
your contributors own it, IÕd love to see a review or at least a
summary of the stories that were printed (or reprinted) in it.
*** How about it readers? Anyone out there have the original #100
available for a review!? IÕd love to see this also, Lee. As
well, IÕm still waiting for someone to offer reviews of ÒWhatever
Happened to the Man of Tomorrow,Ó the last pre-Byrne story by Alan
Moore. Get with it readers! :)
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End of Issue #12
