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Superman (1939 series) #164
Superman (1939 series) #164 [comic] DC Comics [Jan 01, 1939] …
Comic
Published January 1, 1939
About the author
DC Comics
21.7k books150 followersDC Comics is one of the most influential and enduring comic book publishers in the world, widely recognized for launching the superhero genre and shaping the modern mythology of American pop culture. Founded in 1934 as National Allied Publications by Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson, the company published the first comic book featuring all-original content. That early publication, New Fun Comics, marked the beginning of a new form of entertainment that would quickly gain momentum.
The transformation from a publishing experiment to a cultural powerhouse began in earnest with the creation of Superman by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster in 1938. Introduced in Action Comics #1, Superman is widely regarded as the first true superhero and set the standard for the genre. His instant popularity laid the groundwork for DC’s expansion and its rapid rise within the industry. The debut of Batman, created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, in 1939, and Wonder Woman, created by William Moulton Marston and H. G. Peter, in 1941, added to DC’s growing pantheon of heroic figures.
As superheroes captured the public imagination, DC introduced a wide array of characters, including the Flash, Green Lantern, Aquaman, Martian Manhunter, and Green Arrow. In the 1960s, these characters were brought together as the Justice League of America, reflecting the company’s focus on interconnected storytelling and shared universes—concepts that would become central to comic book publishing.
DC’s influence extended far beyond its own titles. During the Silver Age of Comics, the company reimagined older characters and introduced new ones, revitalizing interest in the medium. The company also played a central role in the development of the Comics Code Authority, which shaped the industry’s self-regulation following public criticism and Senate hearings in the 1950s.
In the 1980s, DC undertook a bold redefinition of its brand and storytelling approach. The publication of The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller, Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons, and Swamp Thing marked a creative renaissance. These works pushed the boundaries of what comic books could express, bringing mature themes, literary depth, and psychological complexity into the spotlight. This era confirmed DC as a platform for serious artistic exploration, not just superhero adventure.
DC also took steps to streamline its increasingly complex fictional universe with the crossover event Crisis on Infinite Earths in 1985, an ambitious effort to consolidate decades of continuity. Since then, the company has repeatedly reinvented its universe through major storylines and publishing initiatives, including Zero Hour, Infinite Crisis, Flashpoint, and Convergence. In 2011, DC launched The New 52, a line-wide reboot that modernized characters and storylines. This was followed by DC Rebirth in 2016, which aimed to reintroduce classic elements and emotional resonance.
In addition to its core superhero line, DC has published influential works under its imprints, including Vertigo, which released genre-defining series like Sandman, Preacher, and Y: The Last Man. These titles broadened the scope of comics and attracted new adult readership. More recent imprints such as Black Label and DC Ink continue to offer creator-driven, experimental storytelling for mature and young adult audiences.
DC’s characters have transcended the comic book medium, becoming mainstays of global entertainment. From Christopher Reeve’s Superman films to Tim Burton’s and Christopher Nolan’s Batman adaptations, from animated series like Batman: The Animated Series to the DC Extended Universe, the company’s heroes have been interpreted and reinterpreted across generations. Games like the Arkham series and shows like The Flash, Arrow, and Peacemaker have extended DC’s reach into interactive and serialize
The transformation from a publishing experiment to a cultural powerhouse began in earnest with the creation of Superman by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster in 1938. Introduced in Action Comics #1, Superman is widely regarded as the first true superhero and set the standard for the genre. His instant popularity laid the groundwork for DC’s expansion and its rapid rise within the industry. The debut of Batman, created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, in 1939, and Wonder Woman, created by William Moulton Marston and H. G. Peter, in 1941, added to DC’s growing pantheon of heroic figures.
As superheroes captured the public imagination, DC introduced a wide array of characters, including the Flash, Green Lantern, Aquaman, Martian Manhunter, and Green Arrow. In the 1960s, these characters were brought together as the Justice League of America, reflecting the company’s focus on interconnected storytelling and shared universes—concepts that would become central to comic book publishing.
DC’s influence extended far beyond its own titles. During the Silver Age of Comics, the company reimagined older characters and introduced new ones, revitalizing interest in the medium. The company also played a central role in the development of the Comics Code Authority, which shaped the industry’s self-regulation following public criticism and Senate hearings in the 1950s.
In the 1980s, DC undertook a bold redefinition of its brand and storytelling approach. The publication of The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller, Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons, and Swamp Thing marked a creative renaissance. These works pushed the boundaries of what comic books could express, bringing mature themes, literary depth, and psychological complexity into the spotlight. This era confirmed DC as a platform for serious artistic exploration, not just superhero adventure.
DC also took steps to streamline its increasingly complex fictional universe with the crossover event Crisis on Infinite Earths in 1985, an ambitious effort to consolidate decades of continuity. Since then, the company has repeatedly reinvented its universe through major storylines and publishing initiatives, including Zero Hour, Infinite Crisis, Flashpoint, and Convergence. In 2011, DC launched The New 52, a line-wide reboot that modernized characters and storylines. This was followed by DC Rebirth in 2016, which aimed to reintroduce classic elements and emotional resonance.
In addition to its core superhero line, DC has published influential works under its imprints, including Vertigo, which released genre-defining series like Sandman, Preacher, and Y: The Last Man. These titles broadened the scope of comics and attracted new adult readership. More recent imprints such as Black Label and DC Ink continue to offer creator-driven, experimental storytelling for mature and young adult audiences.
DC’s characters have transcended the comic book medium, becoming mainstays of global entertainment. From Christopher Reeve’s Superman films to Tim Burton’s and Christopher Nolan’s Batman adaptations, from animated series like Batman: The Animated Series to the DC Extended Universe, the company’s heroes have been interpreted and reinterpreted across generations. Games like the Arkham series and shows like The Flash, Arrow, and Peacemaker have extended DC’s reach into interactive and serialize
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
July 1, 2026
This issue asks a question that had been hanging over the Superman–Luthor rivalry for decades: what happens when they finally meet on equal terms?
Ever since the earliest days of Superman, Lex Luthor's failures could always be attributed, at least in part, to the simple fact that he was facing someone vastly beyond human capabilities. Superman #164 removes that advantage by placing both men under a red sun, stripping Superman of his Kryptonian powers and forcing him to rely on nothing but his intelligence, determination, and courage.
The result is one of the most compelling confrontations of the Silver Age. Instead of another clash between overwhelming strength and scientific ingenuity, the story becomes a genuine duel between two extraordinary minds and two radically different philosophies. It demonstrates that Superman's greatest asset was never his invulnerability, while Luthor's greatest weakness was never a lack of intellect.
Of course, the issue still carries many of the era's characteristic flaws. The pacing can be abrupt, some plot developments require a generous suspension of disbelief, and a few Silver Age conveniences inevitably creep into the story. Readers accustomed to modern comics may find these elements dated.
Even so, the central premise is so strong—and executed with enough tension—that these shortcomings become easy to forgive. For anyone interested in the classic Superman–Luthor dynamic, this is one of the standout stories of the original series and well worth reading.
Ever since the earliest days of Superman, Lex Luthor's failures could always be attributed, at least in part, to the simple fact that he was facing someone vastly beyond human capabilities. Superman #164 removes that advantage by placing both men under a red sun, stripping Superman of his Kryptonian powers and forcing him to rely on nothing but his intelligence, determination, and courage.
The result is one of the most compelling confrontations of the Silver Age. Instead of another clash between overwhelming strength and scientific ingenuity, the story becomes a genuine duel between two extraordinary minds and two radically different philosophies. It demonstrates that Superman's greatest asset was never his invulnerability, while Luthor's greatest weakness was never a lack of intellect.
Of course, the issue still carries many of the era's characteristic flaws. The pacing can be abrupt, some plot developments require a generous suspension of disbelief, and a few Silver Age conveniences inevitably creep into the story. Readers accustomed to modern comics may find these elements dated.
Even so, the central premise is so strong—and executed with enough tension—that these shortcomings become easy to forgive. For anyone interested in the classic Superman–Luthor dynamic, this is one of the standout stories of the original series and well worth reading.
June 27, 2024
A very charming little story that shows the good side of Lex Luthor.
January 21, 2025
Many of the best stories of this era explored the character of silver age Lex Luthor. A character who is just not used anymore but who is fascinating.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews