Written by Kelley Puckett
Art by Aluir Amancio; Terry Austin; Phil Felix; & Marie Severin
Cover Art by Mike Manley & Terry Austin
SUMMARY:
Published by DC Comics for September 2000, this issue is entitled “Bigger Than Big, Smaller Than Small.” Facing a single UFO in Metropolis, the Man of Steel makes quick work of a hostile alien. Exposed to the alien’s seemingly useless weapon, a woozy Superman goes to S.T.A.R. Labs for routine testing. A worried Lois Lane pushes her way into S.T.A.R. Labs to find that Superman is gradually shrinking to less than microscopic size.
Professor Hamilton’s laser experiment evidently doesn’t work, as the Man of Steel is now small enough to rest in Lois’ palm before vanishing completely. Relying on his knowledge of physics (and some x-ray vision), Superman seeks a faster-than-light solution. Lois is left with a wistful hint of his heartfelt affection.
REVIEW:
Writer Kelley Puckett’s bland story is heavy on the atomic physics of Superman’s dilemma, but, unfortunately, it’s too easily forgettable. Mostly, some huge logical gaffes are the problem (i.e. what happened to the hostile alien? Why would Hamilton and S.T.A.R. Labs give up, leaving Lois with only a night shift janitor in sight and seemingly abandoning any chance of saving Superman? How does Superman actually return to his normal size?
It’s disappointing that Ray Palmer’s Atom doesn’t show up (let alone isn’t even mentioned), particularly if the Atom should be Superman’s logical hope of rescue. Instead, Lois’ heartbreak becomes the sole item of interest.
In terms of the visuals meant to replicate Superman: The Animated Series (especially, the spot-on cover), the art team’s effort appears half-hearted on such a lackluster story. Admirably kid-friendly, Superman Adventures # 47 probably won’t satisfy adult fans, but it at least makes a nice read for undemanding 10-and under fans.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There is a single-page letters-and-answers column, as well as a thumbnail cover reveal for the next issue.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars
