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Superman/Batman (12 Volumes Collected Edition)
Superman/Batman, Vol. 1: Public Enemies
Superman and Batman work together to battle evil in many forms.
160 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2004
42 people are currently reading
3138 people want to read
About the author
Jeph Loeb
1,589 books1,375 followersJoseph "Jeph" Loeb III is an Emmy and WGA nominated American film and television writer, producer and award-winning comic book writer. Loeb was a Co-Executive Producer on the NBC hit show Heroes, and formerly a producer/writer on the TV series Smallville and Lost.
A four-time Eisner Award winner and five-time Wizard Fan Awards winner (see below), Loeb's comic book career includes work on many major characters, including Spider-Man, Batman, Superman, Hulk, Captain America, Cable, Iron Man, Daredevil, Supergirl, the Avengers, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, much of which he has produced in collaboration with artist Tim Sale, who provides the comic art seen on Heroes.
A four-time Eisner Award winner and five-time Wizard Fan Awards winner (see below), Loeb's comic book career includes work on many major characters, including Spider-Man, Batman, Superman, Hulk, Captain America, Cable, Iron Man, Daredevil, Supergirl, the Avengers, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, much of which he has produced in collaboration with artist Tim Sale, who provides the comic art seen on Heroes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 325 reviews
November 17, 2016
Where is the rivalry?
Sure these guys may have already settled their debts and have learnt to work together, but where is the competition? Where is Batman’s naturally morose attitude? Where is his desire to show that you don’t need super powers to kick ass?
This just didn’t get the relationship of the two right, and moreover it pointed out the most painstakingly obvious details such as “I hate it when he does that.” I mean we don’t really near to be explicitly told this. The art can carry it through. I shall read no further.
Sure these guys may have already settled their debts and have learnt to work together, but where is the competition? Where is Batman’s naturally morose attitude? Where is his desire to show that you don’t need super powers to kick ass?
This just didn’t get the relationship of the two right, and moreover it pointed out the most painstakingly obvious details such as “I hate it when he does that.” I mean we don’t really near to be explicitly told this. The art can carry it through. I shall read no further.
October 13, 2022
Reread: 26/06/2022
This was so good omg again. Rereading it again was great like Seeing how Metallo comes in and the duo team up and a simple case becomes so complex and then the coming of President Luthor and declaring a bounty on Superman and the duo teaming to fight these threats and the way they knock down all those villains was just golden and epic! Plus how they stop their friends was just epic and then the scene vs Luthor first their family and then them and Cap Atom getting such a good moment here and then Luthor <3!
What a re-read it was loved it, the art was excellent and makes you love this all the more. Great characterization of both these characters and excellent narrative beats!
__________________________________________________________________
This is one of the greatest team up stories ever!
It starts off with Superman fighting Metallo and then Batman gets involved and there is some mystery involved with the death of his parents and how the former could be involved in it and a meteorite ..from Krypton is falling to Earth and with Luthor being the POTUS he says its Superman's plan to destroy Earth and so every Meta human is after him and its upto the worlds finest to stop these villains and stop Luthor and this insane schemes and they face off against former Heroes and their friends and ally with new Toyman to stop it and the things they find are shocking and the revelations with Luthor are even more shocking!
I like how simple the concept was yet it feels so epic and the inclusion of a certain new god and mysteries compiling on top of each others is intriguing. The art was really good and it reads really well with the writing. Great story from Jeph again!
This was so good omg again. Rereading it again was great like Seeing how Metallo comes in and the duo team up and a simple case becomes so complex and then the coming of President Luthor and declaring a bounty on Superman and the duo teaming to fight these threats and the way they knock down all those villains was just golden and epic! Plus how they stop their friends was just epic and then the scene vs Luthor first their family and then them and Cap Atom getting such a good moment here and then Luthor <3!
What a re-read it was loved it, the art was excellent and makes you love this all the more. Great characterization of both these characters and excellent narrative beats!
__________________________________________________________________
This is one of the greatest team up stories ever!
It starts off with Superman fighting Metallo and then Batman gets involved and there is some mystery involved with the death of his parents and how the former could be involved in it and a meteorite ..from Krypton is falling to Earth and with Luthor being the POTUS he says its Superman's plan to destroy Earth and so every Meta human is after him and its upto the worlds finest to stop these villains and stop Luthor and this insane schemes and they face off against former Heroes and their friends and ally with new Toyman to stop it and the things they find are shocking and the revelations with Luthor are even more shocking!
I like how simple the concept was yet it feels so epic and the inclusion of a certain new god and mysteries compiling on top of each others is intriguing. The art was really good and it reads really well with the writing. Great story from Jeph again!
May 7, 2022
Simple yet charming, this is a great team up adventure between DC's big two. There's something so intrinsically entertaining about the pair's dynamic, especially the way in which they parallel each other whilst still being extremely different. The character work is wonderful, but it's a little let down by the rather uninspired story-telling. With moments of greatness in an overall good experience, it's a must try for fans.
October 21, 2015
This is literally like a McDonald's value meal for the eyes. I consumed something, yes, but it's not lasting and I don't feel sated. Sigh.
May 24, 2011
I love Loeb's Superman/Batman! If you haven't checked these out, you are seriously missing out on the fun.
December 15, 2016
An okay read! So this my first time reading the comic for this story, their was an animated film of this story, that I have watched over ten times! Unfortunately overall, I think I like the animated film better... My major issue with this story is just how confusing a lot of it is, I don't wanna spoil, but so much stuff happens in this one book that its crazy; I can see why the animated film they had to simplify the story a lot, but this one time, it was for the right reasons! So basically the story is that a giant Kryptonite meteor is headed for earth, this is during that period in the comics when Luthor was President, and Luthor blames Superman for the meteor(In the most stupidest way possible, more on that later). Usually I like Luthor, he is by far my favourite Superman Villain, but this and Batman v Superman, are the two times where I didn't like him; they do explain later why he is acting so weird, but for me it was too late. Also my other gripe is the reason Luthor gives for blaming Superman, for the meteor, its like really stupid(That's something I'm glad they changed in the movie), and the fact that most of the heroes eat it up, and just believe whatever Lex says, really stupid. Positive's I love how the book constantly contrasts Batman and Superman, from the awesome opening to end, its written and done really well! But overall guys, I'm disappointed, I wanted to love this story, but overall, I'd rather watch the movie then read this again!
March 10, 2018
You can find my review on our blog by clicking here.
The world’s oldest question: Superman or Batman? Now, what if it isn’t always a “or”? The two titans haven’t always been either side of the fence. Although their sense of justice and their means vary grandly thanks to differences in their childhoods, there are various similarities that bring these two together more often than not. Legendary Jeph Loeb brings forth one of the many popular series that stars the “World’s Finest” duo as they tackle the danger that lies within their reach. With Gods roaming Gotham and Metropolis, it is only fair to find non-believers among the crowd. Superman/Batman (Volume 1): Public Enemies reunites the two biggest members of the Justice League in a story of survival. President Lex Luthor announces that an imminent meteorite made out of nothing other than the famous and scrumptious Kryptonite is heading straight towards Earth. Jumping on the opportunity, Luthor convinces the world that Superman is at fault and conveys a “Wanted Dead or Live” order on Superman, with an extra 1 billion dollars on his forehead. With a special secret team in the palm of his hands, known villains appear from the shadows to take up for grabs the great Superman and his partner, Batman.
Dark, gritty, cynic, and filled with death, it wasn’t. Simply put, this first volume to the series was simple, action-packed and passionate on several level. The first issues gets both titans to meet again over mysterious circumstances and lead them into a confrontation with a villain who might hold pertinent information for Batman’s past. Until we get a blast from the past with the arrival of Future Superman, things start to become urgent and chaotic. The alert of an imminent treat as well as disclosure on a potential mistake lead Superman and Batman to quickly hatch up a plan to seize the danger. Until the President comes forth to the media and puts the whole weight of the danger on Superman’s back. Accused for the giant chunk of Kryptonite coursing its way through the galaxy to Earth, Superman and Batman team up to take down Lex Luthor and find a solution to the problem in the sky. It is only from this part on that we’re gifted with a dose of DC Universe and its almighty collection of superheroes and villains. Page after page, we’re treated with a nifty collection of fights between Superman and Batman against the world.
I’m quite thankful that this turned out a lot better than The Dark Knight Strikes Again, because that sequel was one atrocious pile of poo. With Ed McGuinness’ artwork, this first volume captures a more bubbly and cartoonish illustration. Although it does exhibit a finely drawn artwork, it felt a lot closer to an animated TV show put on paper. It isn’t a bad thing, but it does take away any attempt to make it anything close to sinister. The artwork does however put forth a more colorful palette and gives all the characters a more vibrant and popping presence. After all, with the countless number of appearances, especially the inclusion of both Superman and Batman’s “families”, the artwork was a great complement. While we’re still on this subject, I’d even say that the whole experience was so overwhelming, but still remained satisfying. Seeing the beloved heroes of DC unite in one volume and figure out their different allegiances was probably the highlight of this volume.
Hey man, how is it “passionate on several level”? Well, friend, listen here. Although it might have been unintentional, Jeph Loeb’s writing for this volume depicted more bromance than necessary. Aside from the sexual jokes toward a certain character (Yes. You. Power Girl.), Superman and Batman’s relationship is probably the most exuberant part. To highlight this, I’ll definitely point at the narration. Original and clever overall, it however also added an extra layer of acute admiration for each other (Superman and Batman). Throughout the volume, both Batman and Superman narrate the story with background descriptions on themselves and comparisons to their fellow partner. As they continuously alternate bubbles, each pair are fairly similar and showcases the similarities between the two heroes, despite their differences. But these very similarities also show admiration and a level of bromance that slightly spills over the threshold. Even if the narration is overlooked, some scenes between these two Gods illustrates the love nonetheless. However, I did enjoy how laid-back Batman seemed, and giggle a little bit at his inability to panic and rush. While on the other hand, Superman’s recklessness and simpleton manner held some comedic value.
Superman/Batman (Volume 1): Public Enemies is still a fun and adrenaline pumped volume. It’s never a bad thing to have the two blockbuster superheroes share the same panel and wreck havoc against shared enemies. Another part I actually enjoyed are the allusions done to chess. The idea behind the metaphors was fun and invigorating. It showed tactic, strategy and chemistry. I do have to say that I’m a sucker for anything related to chess. I see a lot of things like a game of chess. And now I see Batman in the mist of it? Win. Even if the volume as a whole was quite hectic and simple plot-wise, it remained a fun and creative path taken by Jeph Loeb. If you ask me, Jeph Loeb knows his chess pieces and doesn’t hesitate in making good use of them. Although there are plenty of other series that are far superior to this Superman/Batman series, this still remains one of the many long series that has attracted attention and brings two of our favorite heroes together.
Yours truly,
Lashaan
Lashaan & Trang | Bloggers and Book Reviewers
Official blog: http://bookidote.wordpress.com
_____________________________
I thought it would be a good idea to check out one of the many series where Superman and Batman are under the same spotlight before Batman v Superman comes out. It's one thing to see them team up instead of fighting each other, but to see them go beyond bromance? Wish it didn't go overboard. The artwork felt so bubbly; like it was made to have a animated adaptation in the future (which it does!). The story is fairly simple, but the first volume contains a HUGE chunk of DCU. I wonder if it has as many as The Dark Knight Strikes Again... One thing's for sure, this was by far better than Frank Millers attempt to put every hero in one book.
The story is fun nonetheless...if you can overlook all the flaws that jump in your face! ;)
P.S. A full review will before BvS comes out in theaters!
Yours truly,
Lashaan
Lashaan & Trang | Bloggers and Book Reviewers
Official blog: http://bookidote.wordpress.com
The world’s oldest question: Superman or Batman? Now, what if it isn’t always a “or”? The two titans haven’t always been either side of the fence. Although their sense of justice and their means vary grandly thanks to differences in their childhoods, there are various similarities that bring these two together more often than not. Legendary Jeph Loeb brings forth one of the many popular series that stars the “World’s Finest” duo as they tackle the danger that lies within their reach. With Gods roaming Gotham and Metropolis, it is only fair to find non-believers among the crowd. Superman/Batman (Volume 1): Public Enemies reunites the two biggest members of the Justice League in a story of survival. President Lex Luthor announces that an imminent meteorite made out of nothing other than the famous and scrumptious Kryptonite is heading straight towards Earth. Jumping on the opportunity, Luthor convinces the world that Superman is at fault and conveys a “Wanted Dead or Live” order on Superman, with an extra 1 billion dollars on his forehead. With a special secret team in the palm of his hands, known villains appear from the shadows to take up for grabs the great Superman and his partner, Batman.
Dark, gritty, cynic, and filled with death, it wasn’t. Simply put, this first volume to the series was simple, action-packed and passionate on several level. The first issues gets both titans to meet again over mysterious circumstances and lead them into a confrontation with a villain who might hold pertinent information for Batman’s past. Until we get a blast from the past with the arrival of Future Superman, things start to become urgent and chaotic. The alert of an imminent treat as well as disclosure on a potential mistake lead Superman and Batman to quickly hatch up a plan to seize the danger. Until the President comes forth to the media and puts the whole weight of the danger on Superman’s back. Accused for the giant chunk of Kryptonite coursing its way through the galaxy to Earth, Superman and Batman team up to take down Lex Luthor and find a solution to the problem in the sky. It is only from this part on that we’re gifted with a dose of DC Universe and its almighty collection of superheroes and villains. Page after page, we’re treated with a nifty collection of fights between Superman and Batman against the world.
I’m quite thankful that this turned out a lot better than The Dark Knight Strikes Again, because that sequel was one atrocious pile of poo. With Ed McGuinness’ artwork, this first volume captures a more bubbly and cartoonish illustration. Although it does exhibit a finely drawn artwork, it felt a lot closer to an animated TV show put on paper. It isn’t a bad thing, but it does take away any attempt to make it anything close to sinister. The artwork does however put forth a more colorful palette and gives all the characters a more vibrant and popping presence. After all, with the countless number of appearances, especially the inclusion of both Superman and Batman’s “families”, the artwork was a great complement. While we’re still on this subject, I’d even say that the whole experience was so overwhelming, but still remained satisfying. Seeing the beloved heroes of DC unite in one volume and figure out their different allegiances was probably the highlight of this volume.
Hey man, how is it “passionate on several level”? Well, friend, listen here. Although it might have been unintentional, Jeph Loeb’s writing for this volume depicted more bromance than necessary. Aside from the sexual jokes toward a certain character (Yes. You. Power Girl.), Superman and Batman’s relationship is probably the most exuberant part. To highlight this, I’ll definitely point at the narration. Original and clever overall, it however also added an extra layer of acute admiration for each other (Superman and Batman). Throughout the volume, both Batman and Superman narrate the story with background descriptions on themselves and comparisons to their fellow partner. As they continuously alternate bubbles, each pair are fairly similar and showcases the similarities between the two heroes, despite their differences. But these very similarities also show admiration and a level of bromance that slightly spills over the threshold. Even if the narration is overlooked, some scenes between these two Gods illustrates the love nonetheless. However, I did enjoy how laid-back Batman seemed, and giggle a little bit at his inability to panic and rush. While on the other hand, Superman’s recklessness and simpleton manner held some comedic value.
Superman/Batman (Volume 1): Public Enemies is still a fun and adrenaline pumped volume. It’s never a bad thing to have the two blockbuster superheroes share the same panel and wreck havoc against shared enemies. Another part I actually enjoyed are the allusions done to chess. The idea behind the metaphors was fun and invigorating. It showed tactic, strategy and chemistry. I do have to say that I’m a sucker for anything related to chess. I see a lot of things like a game of chess. And now I see Batman in the mist of it? Win. Even if the volume as a whole was quite hectic and simple plot-wise, it remained a fun and creative path taken by Jeph Loeb. If you ask me, Jeph Loeb knows his chess pieces and doesn’t hesitate in making good use of them. Although there are plenty of other series that are far superior to this Superman/Batman series, this still remains one of the many long series that has attracted attention and brings two of our favorite heroes together.
Yours truly,
Lashaan
Lashaan & Trang | Bloggers and Book Reviewers
Official blog: http://bookidote.wordpress.com
_____________________________
I thought it would be a good idea to check out one of the many series where Superman and Batman are under the same spotlight before Batman v Superman comes out. It's one thing to see them team up instead of fighting each other, but to see them go beyond bromance? Wish it didn't go overboard. The artwork felt so bubbly; like it was made to have a animated adaptation in the future (which it does!). The story is fairly simple, but the first volume contains a HUGE chunk of DCU. I wonder if it has as many as The Dark Knight Strikes Again... One thing's for sure, this was by far better than Frank Millers attempt to put every hero in one book.
The story is fun nonetheless...if you can overlook all the flaws that jump in your face! ;)
P.S. A full review will before BvS comes out in theaters!
Yours truly,
Lashaan
Lashaan & Trang | Bloggers and Book Reviewers
Official blog: http://bookidote.wordpress.com
December 24, 2020
Kali pertama seumur hidup aku membaca komik adiwira barat. Di hari krismas pulak tu.
Aku tak adalah apa2 jangkaan tinggi pasal komik ni sebab minda aku dah lama dipengaruhi oleh manga jepun dan komik tempatan. Jadi aku rasa komik ni biasa2 sahaja jalan ceritanya. Kau sudah boleh agak agak apa yang akan terjadi, pelbagai adiwira dan adijahat yang muncul dalam komik ni dan aku gembira sebab aku kenal hampir kesemuanya (sebab dah layan hampir kesemua filem adiwira DC kot). Rasanya rakyat malaysia lebih cenderung menonton filem dari membaca komik adiwira, sebab tu penerbitannya cuma sempat 3 buah je.
Apa yang aku kurang suka ialah terlalu banyak cakap/dialog melankolik, aksi pun 1-2 panel sahaja apabila bertemu adijahat, maklumlah banyak karakter yang muncul, kalau lawan sampai 10 mukasurat mahu tebal gila buku ni. Lagi satu faktor kekuatan Superman yang kita sedia tahu bahawa dia ni kuat gila nak mampus dan kelemahannya hanyalah Kryptonite, terlalu baik dan Lois Lane. Tak logik pun ada bila Batman bertarung, kita tahu yang Batman ni manusia biasa tapi selamba je menang dengan adijahat dan adiwira yang bukan manusia. Ikut logik akal, Batman hanyalah tikus bersayap (ayat salah satu adijahat dalam ni yang memang kelakar!)
p/s: Batman hanyalah tikus bersayap.
Aku tak adalah apa2 jangkaan tinggi pasal komik ni sebab minda aku dah lama dipengaruhi oleh manga jepun dan komik tempatan. Jadi aku rasa komik ni biasa2 sahaja jalan ceritanya. Kau sudah boleh agak agak apa yang akan terjadi, pelbagai adiwira dan adijahat yang muncul dalam komik ni dan aku gembira sebab aku kenal hampir kesemuanya (sebab dah layan hampir kesemua filem adiwira DC kot). Rasanya rakyat malaysia lebih cenderung menonton filem dari membaca komik adiwira, sebab tu penerbitannya cuma sempat 3 buah je.
Apa yang aku kurang suka ialah terlalu banyak cakap/dialog melankolik, aksi pun 1-2 panel sahaja apabila bertemu adijahat, maklumlah banyak karakter yang muncul, kalau lawan sampai 10 mukasurat mahu tebal gila buku ni. Lagi satu faktor kekuatan Superman yang kita sedia tahu bahawa dia ni kuat gila nak mampus dan kelemahannya hanyalah Kryptonite, terlalu baik dan Lois Lane. Tak logik pun ada bila Batman bertarung, kita tahu yang Batman ni manusia biasa tapi selamba je menang dengan adijahat dan adiwira yang bukan manusia. Ikut logik akal, Batman hanyalah tikus bersayap (ayat salah satu adijahat dalam ni yang memang kelakar!)
p/s: Batman hanyalah tikus bersayap.
December 26, 2019
Honestly, this is my second favorite Batman/Superman story.
It does such a great job showing why Bruce and Clark share a bond to begin with. Loeb did a great job with Bruce and Clark's narratives being parallels of each other. You see them reading each other's minds throughout the entire case, being on the same page, thinking almost exclusively about each other throughout the entire arc. Bruce is constantly worried about Clark's safety and going so far as to say he'd be okay with whatever punishment Clark doled out to Luthor because of what Luthor had done to Clark. Clark worries about Bruce constantly and expresses a secret wish that Bruce would stop being Batman, despite all the good he's done, because Clark worries that it will one day get Bruce killed.
They understand each other so completely and have such a storied past. It's wonderful to see and I really enjoy reading a story where their bond leads to them saving the day - not just fighting each other.
The only detriment for me was that I forgot how poorly the women were used - in the three or so pages they were present. Didn't appreciate Power Girl being told her usefulness in this plot was to distract a 13 year old with her boobs (hey, thanks) or the random kiss between Luthor and Waller that resulted in an incredibly OOC response from her. Again, in some cases, better to not feature women at all if this is how they're going to be used.
It does such a great job showing why Bruce and Clark share a bond to begin with. Loeb did a great job with Bruce and Clark's narratives being parallels of each other. You see them reading each other's minds throughout the entire case, being on the same page, thinking almost exclusively about each other throughout the entire arc. Bruce is constantly worried about Clark's safety and going so far as to say he'd be okay with whatever punishment Clark doled out to Luthor because of what Luthor had done to Clark. Clark worries about Bruce constantly and expresses a secret wish that Bruce would stop being Batman, despite all the good he's done, because Clark worries that it will one day get Bruce killed.
They understand each other so completely and have such a storied past. It's wonderful to see and I really enjoy reading a story where their bond leads to them saving the day - not just fighting each other.
The only detriment for me was that I forgot how poorly the women were used - in the three or so pages they were present. Didn't appreciate Power Girl being told her usefulness in this plot was to distract a 13 year old with her boobs (hey, thanks) or the random kiss between Luthor and Waller that resulted in an incredibly OOC response from her. Again, in some cases, better to not feature women at all if this is how they're going to be used.
December 23, 2017
Jeph Loeb...just this name is enough to motivate me into reading this series, and Mr. Loeb really doesn't disappoint. Plus the artwork is also good.
PS: and President Lex Luther isn't such a bad idea after we saw what is going on in the real-life USA!
PS: and President Lex Luther isn't such a bad idea after we saw what is going on in the real-life USA!
March 6, 2023
A fun team up. Watching Superman and Batman working together is always fun as they work so different yet they work so well as a team. And with Lex being the main threat here, and using Superman's origin as a way to make him the "bad guy" is really a cool idea. I also really dig the art, slick and works well for this style of storytelling.
I will say having so many other superheroes in here kind of took away from Superman and Batman team up. I didn't need Hawkman, Power Girl, Shazam and so on. Also it does drag on a bit, I think this would have worked better as a 4 part, MAYBE 5 part story.
Oh and also Jeph Loeb has a few too many sexist style dialogue remarks that feel off at times.
Saying that still a fun team up and a 3 out of 5.
I will say having so many other superheroes in here kind of took away from Superman and Batman team up. I didn't need Hawkman, Power Girl, Shazam and so on. Also it does drag on a bit, I think this would have worked better as a 4 part, MAYBE 5 part story.
Oh and also Jeph Loeb has a few too many sexist style dialogue remarks that feel off at times.
Saying that still a fun team up and a 3 out of 5.
January 19, 2025
Writing a review for this feels strange. While I have read and reviewed a few graphic novels, I would consider this a comic rather than a graphic novel. I'm reminded of the analogy that books are like food; some are like a five-course gourmet meal that leaves you with memories long after the meal is done, some are like an ice-cream that you enjoy after a long day at work. This book feels like the latter.
In the comic, we learn that a fragment from Superman's home planet - Krypton - is on a collision course with Earth. Lex Luthor, the president of the United States of America and nemesis of Superman, believes this is due to Superman's presence on Earth and declares a warrant for his arrest to face trial for crimes against humanity. What follows is a series of epic battles as Superman, along with Batman's help, works to clear his name and save Earth.
What first struck me is the narrative; we get streams of thought from both Superman and Batman running in parallel throughout the book, which allows us to understand each's perspective on the unfolding drama. The art is incredible and I have to call out the phenomenal inking that was done for this book.
It's a comic at the end of the day but my devouring it within a few hours over two days reminded me that there's a place and time for books like these. I hope I don't forget to stop taking life and myself too seriously all the time.
In the comic, we learn that a fragment from Superman's home planet - Krypton - is on a collision course with Earth. Lex Luthor, the president of the United States of America and nemesis of Superman, believes this is due to Superman's presence on Earth and declares a warrant for his arrest to face trial for crimes against humanity. What follows is a series of epic battles as Superman, along with Batman's help, works to clear his name and save Earth.
What first struck me is the narrative; we get streams of thought from both Superman and Batman running in parallel throughout the book, which allows us to understand each's perspective on the unfolding drama. The art is incredible and I have to call out the phenomenal inking that was done for this book.
It's a comic at the end of the day but my devouring it within a few hours over two days reminded me that there's a place and time for books like these. I hope I don't forget to stop taking life and myself too seriously all the time.
July 3, 2017
A Quickie Review
When it comes to superheroes, the old saying is true: You can't beat the classics. Superman and Batman are two of the standby comic book stars, and this volume of comics is entertaining despite both its age and its old-school cast of characters. It's not exactly perfect--there's some profanity, a little blood, and one heroine wears a buxom outfit--but, for what it is, it's quite fun.
Score: 4/5
When it comes to superheroes, the old saying is true: You can't beat the classics. Superman and Batman are two of the standby comic book stars, and this volume of comics is entertaining despite both its age and its old-school cast of characters. It's not exactly perfect--there's some profanity, a little blood, and one heroine wears a buxom outfit--but, for what it is, it's quite fun.
Score: 4/5
September 3, 2023
Came across this the other day, and I can only assume my elder bought it (nearly 20 years ago) and saved it. I have no recollection of reading/seeing it when it came out.
In any event, I'm glad and found and read it.
As a self-contained story arc (in this printing, consolidating 12 individual issues), it was, first and foremost, interesting, in addition to being rather creative, cohesive throughout, surprisingly compelling, and far more gratifying than I expected.
In any event, I'm glad and found and read it.
As a self-contained story arc (in this printing, consolidating 12 individual issues), it was, first and foremost, interesting, in addition to being rather creative, cohesive throughout, surprisingly compelling, and far more gratifying than I expected.
November 29, 2025
Toyman I am charmed by your hiro hamada aesthetic
August 9, 2016
I am so loving that I committed to reading more graphic novels in 2014 because books like this are so much fun! I'm actually a Marvel guy and have never read much in the DC universe but this book was a blast.
Asteroid heading toward earth. President Lex Luthor offers a bounty on Superman (blames the asteroid on him) and an all out battle royal ensues. It's pretty much everyone against Superman & Batman - Soloman Grundy, Hawkman, Green Lantern, Power Girl (yea), Mister Freeze, Captain Cold, Mongul, Lady Shiva, Nightshade, Grodd and about 20 more that I didn't recognize. Reminded me of the job of reading Marvel's Secret Wars back in the 80's.
The story is much deeper than I'm giving it credit for but what I enjoyed was the fun
AND
The fact that it was self contained (if you follow my reviews you'll know about my aggravation lately with books that can't seem to exist outside of a series).
Yes it could be better - there is still that cheesy DC universe to contend with but recommended nonetheless. A good way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Asteroid heading toward earth. President Lex Luthor offers a bounty on Superman (blames the asteroid on him) and an all out battle royal ensues. It's pretty much everyone against Superman & Batman - Soloman Grundy, Hawkman, Green Lantern, Power Girl (yea), Mister Freeze, Captain Cold, Mongul, Lady Shiva, Nightshade, Grodd and about 20 more that I didn't recognize. Reminded me of the job of reading Marvel's Secret Wars back in the 80's.
The story is much deeper than I'm giving it credit for but what I enjoyed was the fun
AND
The fact that it was self contained (if you follow my reviews you'll know about my aggravation lately with books that can't seem to exist outside of a series).
Yes it could be better - there is still that cheesy DC universe to contend with but recommended nonetheless. A good way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
June 17, 2020
This was alright, the art was a bit too cartoony for my liking at first but I got used to it eventually. Story-wise things were a bit cluttered, but I do love Batman and Superman's friendship/partnership and their banter so I might continue reading, but we'll see.
July 30, 2025
4.5 stars, in case you didn’t know: Superman and Batman are besties, and anyone who disagrees needs to read this.
July 26, 2021
É uma história ok, tem seus altos e baixos. O plot do Luthor ser presidente e querer acabar com o Superman é padrão do antagonismo dos 2, entretanto, o que se destaca no decorrer da história é a exploração do relacionamento do Batman com o Superman, ambos se ajudando e tomando suas decisões conhecendo um ao outro, tendo como base de sua amizade a confiança e o complemento na figura do que o herói representa.
Contudo, os elementos que arquitetaram todo o plano do Luthor como a equipe de heróis que ele comanda, a questão do asteroide, a origem da tecnologia e o elemento do começo da trama que instiga o Batman e sua identidade secreta de Bruce Wayne relacionado a morte de seus pais, deixaram a desejar.
Contudo, os elementos que arquitetaram todo o plano do Luthor como a equipe de heróis que ele comanda, a questão do asteroide, a origem da tecnologia e o elemento do começo da trama que instiga o Batman e sua identidade secreta de Bruce Wayne relacionado a morte de seus pais, deixaram a desejar.
October 27, 2025
Großes Kino. Sehr 90s. Cheesy, dramatisch, heroisch, die Muskeln überlebensgroß, so wie das Drama und die Emotionen.
Hatte sehr viel Spaß damit. Die Freundschaft zwischen Bruce und Clark - zwei Menschen, die unterschiedlicher nicht sein könnten - steht hier im Zentrum und ist definitiv das Highlight.
Hatte sehr viel Spaß damit. Die Freundschaft zwischen Bruce und Clark - zwei Menschen, die unterschiedlicher nicht sein könnten - steht hier im Zentrum und ist definitiv das Highlight.
April 6, 2017
Superb. Surely the very best iteration of the World's Finest Team we will see in our lifetimes.
July 15, 2025
“if I am guilty of one mistake, it was putting my faith in the American public not to vote for him” re: Lex Luthor is hitting a little too hard at the moment
July 31, 2014
I really wanted to like this one, but it was bad, painfully bad. It had a moment or two of hope and it held my interest, but ultimately I was left hugely disappointed. First off, this is by far the most homoerotic comic I have ever read. The relationship between Batman and Superman surpassed the “Odd Couple” and dabbled into the very strange territory of secret love affair. I’m sure this was not the intention of the author but the constant secret admiration and worship of one another is uncomfortable and odd at best.
Second the writing is just awful, clunky and forced. The whole purpose of a graphic novel is to see more than tell, but the author was constantly stating the obvious…. I hate when Batman does that, it makes me angry, I am so mad! The constant switching between the internal monologue of ‘B’ and ‘S’ (yes they actually refer to one another with these nicknames) is distracting, annoying, and unnecessary. We get it. We can understand the differences and similarities between the two without you hitting us over the head with it.
Thirdly, the interpretation of some of the characters, especially the women is terrible. Lois Lane looks like a tranny and Power Girl is supposed to be one of the sexist superheroes out there and she looks like a cross dresser who ate Power Girl.
Finally, the plot seems very poorly constructed with quite a few plot holes and the most absurd resolution I have ever seen Lex Luthor convinces the public and most shockingly members of the JLA that Superman needs to be taken out due to his ties to Krypton, um what about the several other ‘Super’ characters?? Supergirl? Superboy? The fricken dog Krypto! Not to mention that this story has the absolute worst treatment of time travel that I have ever seen!
What a huge disappointment. Read it if you must, but don’t expect much.
Second the writing is just awful, clunky and forced. The whole purpose of a graphic novel is to see more than tell, but the author was constantly stating the obvious…. I hate when Batman does that, it makes me angry, I am so mad! The constant switching between the internal monologue of ‘B’ and ‘S’ (yes they actually refer to one another with these nicknames) is distracting, annoying, and unnecessary. We get it. We can understand the differences and similarities between the two without you hitting us over the head with it.
Thirdly, the interpretation of some of the characters, especially the women is terrible. Lois Lane looks like a tranny and Power Girl is supposed to be one of the sexist superheroes out there and she looks like a cross dresser who ate Power Girl.
Finally, the plot seems very poorly constructed with quite a few plot holes and the most absurd resolution I have ever seen Lex Luthor convinces the public and most shockingly members of the JLA that Superman needs to be taken out due to his ties to Krypton, um what about the several other ‘Super’ characters?? Supergirl? Superboy? The fricken dog Krypto! Not to mention that this story has the absolute worst treatment of time travel that I have ever seen!
What a huge disappointment. Read it if you must, but don’t expect much.
July 7, 2008
Reprints Superman/Batman #1-6. Batman and Superman team-up when Luthor frames Superman for the impending doom of the world. First off, I kind of like the art, but the story and writing is really bad. The juxtapositioning of Superman to Batman is interesting, but it is so forced that drawing out an entire series based on it seems fake. The supporting characters are so out of synch and the idea that Lex Luthor could turn the world against Superman with a lame press conference is laughable. At least the Batman/Superman robot is made fun of but that doesn't make up for all the other horrible plotlines that should be mocked.
May 11, 2021
Si el guion estuviera a la altura del dibujo, la historia sería otra. Pero como por más bonito que dibuje McGuiness el dibujo de Loeb sigue siendo de lo más pavote e inverosímil, me veo forzado a promediar para abajo.
Marco la edición española por aproximación, ya que lo tengo en los números sueltos de SD. Lástima que jamás conseguí el #5 :(
Marco la edición española por aproximación, ya que lo tengo en los números sueltos de SD. Lástima que jamás conseguí el #5 :(
October 2, 2019
I was not aware of and had not followed any of the run up to this so it took a while to get into it. It was a nicely told tale and the art was very good overall. There are always moments where it dips but there was real spectacle here lovingly drawn.
I liked some of the twists, I enjoyed the narrative style and the way the 2 perspectives formed a type voice over to the action and the story
So overall it was a good read, fun while it lasted. You cannot really ask more than that from a book. Its nice when you read something that feels weighty or edgy but if you are going to read a lot then you still should appreciate the fun light reads that while away your time in a world of gentle smiles. This was one of those.
I liked some of the twists, I enjoyed the narrative style and the way the 2 perspectives formed a type voice over to the action and the story
So overall it was a good read, fun while it lasted. You cannot really ask more than that from a book. Its nice when you read something that feels weighty or edgy but if you are going to read a lot then you still should appreciate the fun light reads that while away your time in a world of gentle smiles. This was one of those.
January 9, 2024
3.5 Stars
I read these back when they first came out, and upon re-reading they didn't hold up quite as well as I remembered, but it was still a fun read. The art works well with the story, and there's a lot going on but Loeb manages to keep it all together. Some fun guest stars show up, and we finally get to see what happens with "President" Luthor.
I read these back when they first came out, and upon re-reading they didn't hold up quite as well as I remembered, but it was still a fun read. The art works well with the story, and there's a lot going on but Loeb manages to keep it all together. Some fun guest stars show up, and we finally get to see what happens with "President" Luthor.
May 14, 2025
I read this one before but it still managed to take me by surprise constantly. It has one of my favorite Shazam moments ever and I love this Lex era. While the Superman/Batman juxtaposition might be a little forced, it was built upon so much in other comics that it doesn't read as such.
April 3, 2020
Lex's proof to the American people that Superman is to blame is baseless. Subplots were shaky. Overall, I feel the Public Enemies movie got it better. Still, a good book.
December 26, 2021
Not bad but really not my thing....
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