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February 4, 2005
review: "Superman Batman #17"
This series is arguably one of the top three out there right now. Writer Jeph Loeb has been doing the best characterization for both of these heros. His Superman is somewhat alien and detached, looking for connections; his Batman is angry and removed, looking to break them. They know each other so well, but continue to surprise one another. They look at each other with respect and friendship, but there's also the hint of sadness and even jealousy. A sort of, "Why don't I have more of what he has?" comes from both sides.
This characterization of Batman is especially compelling, and in many ways better than what most of the Batman books have been providing (for the most part it seems that the Batman books are interested in the flair of the villians rather than the motivations of the hero--the current Riddler storyline in Legends of the Dark Knight being one example). With so many Batman books out there it feels like he's overexposed. But Loeb has a Batman who is utterly devoted to his cause AND conflicted. Impressive.
Meanwhile, artist Carlos Pacheco's work is reminiscent of classic comics, everyone rendered in a sort of idealized human form. Combined with the current complicated and dark storyline it forms a sort of Greek tragedy--the man is the father of the boy, who in turn becomes the man. It is emotive and entertaining.
I hope that this team continues (I mean both teams actually: Supes and Bats; Loeb and Pacheco) for a long, long time.
Very highly recommended.
(review by Sean Ferrell)
Posted by sferrell at February 4, 2005 10:14 AM
Comments
Batman comics are in danger of becoming like Star Trek. Too many titles too often with too many similar stories and themes.
But this treatment sounds appealing to me. And that's really saying something, because I'm usually not impressed with Superman tales.
Ha ha. Remember when you're scimoc bag was so full that the weight streched the plastic handle til it reached the floor? And then Matt yelled to your mom, "Look how many books Sean got! I only got *this* many." Those were good days.
Posted by: evebird at February 4, 2005 5:44 PM
Ha! I'd forgotten until you just reminded me. I'm also reminded of the time I bought all my comics on a super hot day, took them home and when they hit the air conditioned air in my house they all got moist and started to curl. I freaked.
I agree with your Batman/Star Trek comparison. As a fan of both I can tell you that I love all of it, but sometimes reluctantly.
Posted by: s.m.f. at February 4, 2005 7:08 PM
