Archive for the ‘Superman Family Adventures’ Category

Written by: Art BaltazarFranco
Art by: Art Baltazar
Cover by: Art Baltazar

The comic book that got me into comics in the first place was Justice League – everyone who follows my blog should know that.  However, the comic title that will forever remain a favorite from my childhood is the Batman Adventures.  It was drawn in a very specific style that mimicked the older, more classic version of the Batman.  While Superman Family Adventures verges much more on the silly side of the artistic realm, there still remains a little bit of that older feeling; each issue is fun, adventurous, and I suspect will stand on its own without the need of reading back up issues to understand the story.

The title isn’t kidding when it reads “Super Family Adventures,” bringing in everyone they can that’s apart of the Superman entourage.  Bizarro’s come to pay Metropolis a visit, but doesn’t quite understand what’s going on since he’s just woken up from his very long nap – Henceforth, he’s a bit cranky.  The Fortress and the artifacts and animals within are scattered…even the multiple, multicolored Kryptonian rocks which are the cause of Superman’s weakness.  Why Supes was keeping this around, I have no idea, but it’s of no concerned to me since he has his led lined suit to protect him.

I was a bit confused at first since the story is much more segmented than last issue’s was.  However, the main story doesn’t stop, the title logo simply interjects itself at random places where a strip can end.  No complaints, just something you might want to be aware of before picking this issue up.

This issue introduce many things for the youngins to help boost their understanding of Superman folklore.  Not only is there Kryptonite everywhere, and a few straggling monsters that will most likely wreak havoc in the world, there’s also a few new character additions and a wrist watch specifically designed for Jimmy Olsen to contact Superman if need be.  But no matter what the peril, nothing will be as perilous as the ability to get Mr. White his coffee, even on Jimmy’s day off.

It’s a fun issue that will have your kids wanting more.  Have fun!

Written by Art Baltazar
Art by Franco & Baltazar
Edited by Kristy Quin

It looks as if DC didn’t want to confuse the kiddos TOO much with all of the New 52 hoopla, so they only integrated a few tiny aspects of the new 52 but kept A LOT of the old…old to those of us born in the early 80′s that is.

The first page wastes no time by hurling a meteor towards Earth, with the Man of Steel quickly saving the day.  The citizens of Metropolis stare in awe of Supes, but quickly flies over to his place of work, only to meet the scrutiny of Lois Lane, and his coffee addicted boss.  Suddenly, giant robots start their rampage on the city, forcing Clark Kent to change back into his tights and fly off to save the day again.  Little does he know that these robots are more than they appear.

What was appealing about the Batman Adventures?  It’s exceptionally classic style artwork and “stand-on-its-own” individual storylines.  Superman Family Adventures has this same appeal; the script holds together better than most others, it’s filled with fantastic one liners that are expected from this kind of throw back, and the art is purposefully flimsy and fun!

In addition, we now have a new addition to the pet side of the Super family.  All we need now is a super cat and the animalistic super trifecta will be complete!  Krypto needs a good spotlight, and giving him vocal chords is a nice touch.

I wonder if the kids are truly going to appreciate this style of comic however.  Oh sure, they’ll love it simply because it’s Superman, but for people around my age, this is the ultimate nostalgic trip down memory lane.  Likewise with the new Green Lantern: The Animated Series comic title, Superman Family Adventures reminds me of the above mentioned Batman Adventures series.  The style of art and writing calls out to my nostalgic sensibilities, which helps me to enjoy this first issue that much more.

9 out of 10 stars