Written by Edmond Hamilton; Bill Finger; Dave Wood; & Others
Art by Curt Swan; Stan Kaye; Dick Sprang; Charles Paris; & Others
Cover Art by Curt Swan; Stan Kaye; & Others
Compilation Cover Art by Win Mortimer; Dale Crain; & Drew Moore
SUMMARY:
Under its Showcase imprint, in 2007, DC Comics released this 552-page black-and-white compendium reprinting Superman # 76 (1952) and World’s Finest Comics # 71-111 (1954-1960). Starting with the World’s Finest Duo’s first meeting, these historic tales recount their friendship in DC’s transition from its Golden Age to the Silver Age.
While Robin makes this series really more like The World’s Finest Trio, Lois Lane frequently guest-stars. Also occasionally on hand are Perry White, Commissioner Gordon, and the original Batwoman/Kathy Kane. Among the foes that Superman & Batman is the first team-up between Lex Luthor and the Joker.
Note: World’s Finest Comics concluded with Issue # 323 in 1986. Approximately two decades later, DC Comics rebooted the series as Superman/Batman.
REVIEW:
Even in black-and-white, the vintage artwork holds up much better than the scripting. At times, the writing becomes so stilted that it’s sleep-inducing. Still, it’s cool to read the first Superman-and-Batman tale, though it’s hard to fathom that DC Comics wouldn’t have already acquainted them in a wartime Justice Society adventure. Nonetheless, the first two tales benefit from a vintage Lois Lane, as she comes so close to deducing two secret identities – Superman & Batman must then go to convoluted lengths to thwart her snooping.
After that, these tales sorely fail Lois (and Batwoman, too), as condescending chauvinism from the World’s Finest gets old fast. Aside from a supporting cast often reduced to formulaic caricatures, these dated stories are a form of treasure hunting — every once in a great while, one uncovers a minor gem after sufficient digging. Suitable for both old school fans and undemanding young readers, this compilation’s best asset is its admirable production quality.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There’s a helpful table of contents (including credits). The covers are reprinted in a full-page format.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 5 Stars
