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Superman/Batman (7 Volumes Edition)
Superman/Batman, Volume 1
The world's most iconic super-heroes are united for an unbelievable adventure when Superman's greatest foe, Lex Luthor, becomes President of the United States and starts an all-out super-powered hunt for the Man of Tomorrow. Nearby in Gotham, Batman finds that Superman is not the last Kryptonian, as he discovers another survivor alive…Kal-El’s cousin, Supergirl! However, behind this immense discovery may be the gravest threat of all: Darkseid! Together, Superman and Batman square off with against the greatest threats known to the DC Universe in an unforgettable team-up!
Acclaimed writer Jeph Loeb (BATMAN: THE LONG HALLOWEEN, SUPERMAN FOR ALL SEASONS) along with superstar artists Ed McGuinness (Avengers vs. X-Men), Pat Lee, and Michael Turner (JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA) pair together the DC Universe’s finest heroes for an epic, action-packed adventure in SUPERMAN/BATMAN (collects SUPERMAN/BATMAN #1-13).
Acclaimed writer Jeph Loeb (BATMAN: THE LONG HALLOWEEN, SUPERMAN FOR ALL SEASONS) along with superstar artists Ed McGuinness (Avengers vs. X-Men), Pat Lee, and Michael Turner (JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA) pair together the DC Universe’s finest heroes for an epic, action-packed adventure in SUPERMAN/BATMAN (collects SUPERMAN/BATMAN #1-13).
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 15, 2025
68 people are currently reading
570 people want to read
About the author
Jeph Loeb
1,589 books1,374 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 130 reviews
October 26, 2016
I preferred the animated films based on this.
Ed Mcguiness's art shows that everyone is on steroids and have breast implants. Hmmmmm me thinks Ed needs to get out a bit more?
There are some good parts in the this story and the relationship between Superman and Batman is good. It's an average typical DC story though. There are so many average stories surrounding Superman, why can't more stories like Allstar Superman be imagined? Stop re-imagining his origin and explore his future!
Another thing, I absolutely love Darkseid. Why is he not explored more? He's so badass, he's a god and nobody seems to know how to handle him. On the justice league animated series I thought he was brilliant, they need to bring that into the comics.
Ed Mcguiness's art shows that everyone is on steroids and have breast implants. Hmmmmm me thinks Ed needs to get out a bit more?
There are some good parts in the this story and the relationship between Superman and Batman is good. It's an average typical DC story though. There are so many average stories surrounding Superman, why can't more stories like Allstar Superman be imagined? Stop re-imagining his origin and explore his future!
Another thing, I absolutely love Darkseid. Why is he not explored more? He's so badass, he's a god and nobody seems to know how to handle him. On the justice league animated series I thought he was brilliant, they need to bring that into the comics.
July 15, 2014
I own several of DC’s Absolute editions. Most were bought at a large discount or have a place in my favorite’s category. I would hesitate to recommend purchasing most of these expensive books because, unless you are already a fan of that particular story, they typically don’t add much to the original package. Absolute Superman/Batman Volume 1 is an exception.
I would agree with many in saying the Jeph Loeb’s work is overrated at times. He’s like an 80’s action movie. Enjoyable, but lacking in significantly meaningful substance. His contribution to the book is not why I would recommend it. Jeph seems to have flashes of brilliance followed longer periods of mediocrity. So many of his ideas could have been tremendous in the hands of a more consistent or patient writer and end up being just decent. Still, there were many moments in both of the two stories I wholeheartedly enjoyed. Some of the back and forth between Supes and Bats, President Luthor slipping Amanda Waller the tongue, Kara training with the amazons, Batman being a badass, and the field trip to Apokolips. Still, neither story really hit on all cylinders. It’s as if Jeph is trying to appeal to both adults and kids simultaneously with these two stories. This can be done, but I think it’s difficult for even an exceptional writer to do well. I believe this holds true for much of Jeph’s work. That being said, if you go into this book with that attitude that it’s all about the fun, you’ll likely enjoy it as much as I did.
What really made this edition of the book a must own for me was the extraordinarily gorgeous artwork. Both McGuinness and Turner provided what I think is some of the best work of their careers in this collection. While each have very different qualities in their illustrations, both are well suited for their chosen story.
McGuinness’s heavily muscled characters, bold thick lines, and cartoony qualities are marvelous. Combined with brilliant coloring by Dave Stewart, the images explode off the page. Jeph’s habit of filling stories with more heroes and villains than necessary actually gives Ed a chance to strut his stuff with a lot of guys and gals he wouldn’t normally get to draw in one story. The JSA, the Bat-family, “Legion of Doom” throwbacks, and a couple of others all look fantastic here. Shazam and Hawkman going toe to toe with the title characters makes for another entertaining highlight.
Likewise, Michael Turner’s distinctive style looks amazing. Some are critical of his women being too thin or everyone looking like runway models. I see it and I just don’t care. Love his run on this title. His long-eared Bats looks reminiscent of Bernie Wrightson’s Batman of old and I am crazy about it. Turner’s Doomday, Granny Goodness, and Darkseid all have an impossible level of detail that is beyond belief. Turner, unlike many other comic artists, also fills his panels with exhaustively detailed backgrounds. These look even more amazing on the oversized pages of this edition. Mr. Turner was certainly a uniquely talented individual and it is glaringly obvious for all to see here.
These stories are popcorn fun and filled with marvelous illustrations by two remarkable artists. An easy recommend for me to any Superman or Batman fan out there.
I would agree with many in saying the Jeph Loeb’s work is overrated at times. He’s like an 80’s action movie. Enjoyable, but lacking in significantly meaningful substance. His contribution to the book is not why I would recommend it. Jeph seems to have flashes of brilliance followed longer periods of mediocrity. So many of his ideas could have been tremendous in the hands of a more consistent or patient writer and end up being just decent. Still, there were many moments in both of the two stories I wholeheartedly enjoyed. Some of the back and forth between Supes and Bats, President Luthor slipping Amanda Waller the tongue, Kara training with the amazons, Batman being a badass, and the field trip to Apokolips. Still, neither story really hit on all cylinders. It’s as if Jeph is trying to appeal to both adults and kids simultaneously with these two stories. This can be done, but I think it’s difficult for even an exceptional writer to do well. I believe this holds true for much of Jeph’s work. That being said, if you go into this book with that attitude that it’s all about the fun, you’ll likely enjoy it as much as I did.
What really made this edition of the book a must own for me was the extraordinarily gorgeous artwork. Both McGuinness and Turner provided what I think is some of the best work of their careers in this collection. While each have very different qualities in their illustrations, both are well suited for their chosen story.
McGuinness’s heavily muscled characters, bold thick lines, and cartoony qualities are marvelous. Combined with brilliant coloring by Dave Stewart, the images explode off the page. Jeph’s habit of filling stories with more heroes and villains than necessary actually gives Ed a chance to strut his stuff with a lot of guys and gals he wouldn’t normally get to draw in one story. The JSA, the Bat-family, “Legion of Doom” throwbacks, and a couple of others all look fantastic here. Shazam and Hawkman going toe to toe with the title characters makes for another entertaining highlight.
Likewise, Michael Turner’s distinctive style looks amazing. Some are critical of his women being too thin or everyone looking like runway models. I see it and I just don’t care. Love his run on this title. His long-eared Bats looks reminiscent of Bernie Wrightson’s Batman of old and I am crazy about it. Turner’s Doomday, Granny Goodness, and Darkseid all have an impossible level of detail that is beyond belief. Turner, unlike many other comic artists, also fills his panels with exhaustively detailed backgrounds. These look even more amazing on the oversized pages of this edition. Mr. Turner was certainly a uniquely talented individual and it is glaringly obvious for all to see here.
These stories are popcorn fun and filled with marvelous illustrations by two remarkable artists. An easy recommend for me to any Superman or Batman fan out there.
August 6, 2025
This beautiful little paperback contains the first 1-13 issues of the popular Superman/Batman from 2003-04 and some more.
The first six issues drawn by McGuiness are really fabulous. The story as expected kept me on the edge of my seat as one thing led to another in an action packed extravaganza.
The second part of the paperback is illustrated by Michael Turner! OMG he draws such a gorgeous Supergirl and if that wasn't enough we have a stunning Wonder Woman and Big Barda as well. The story by Jeph Loeb is unbelievably fascinating. He truly creates a master piece along with Turner. The inner dialogues of both Superman and Batman not only makes these two Superheroes more human but also serves as a window into their personality. This story has become one of my all time top 5 DC comics.
The first six issues drawn by McGuiness are really fabulous. The story as expected kept me on the edge of my seat as one thing led to another in an action packed extravaganza.
The second part of the paperback is illustrated by Michael Turner! OMG he draws such a gorgeous Supergirl and if that wasn't enough we have a stunning Wonder Woman and Big Barda as well. The story by Jeph Loeb is unbelievably fascinating. He truly creates a master piece along with Turner. The inner dialogues of both Superman and Batman not only makes these two Superheroes more human but also serves as a window into their personality. This story has become one of my all time top 5 DC comics.
July 22, 2025
I thought I’d try one of these DC Compact Editions just to give them a go. Love ‘em! I know these comics would look better in the bigger, usual format but these ones fit in your pocket and I really enjoyed the artwork and feel of the whole thing.
This one in particular, it turns out, contained two whole stories rather than just the one: The World’s Finest (aka Public Enemies) and The Supergirl From Krypton.
I really enjoyed both and having just seen the movie Superman (2025) it was great seeing characters like Mr Terrific, Krypto and Supergirl all popping up and already having an idea of what they’re about.
World’s Finest was the best story of the two, particularly the last act which is full of spectacle and which James Gunn has hinted he will be borrowing from in the future.
These editions are far cheaper than the usual graphic novels/collections so they’re a great way to dip your toe in to stories you’re curious about without breaking the bank. I’ve already ordered a few more and look forward to checking them out.
This one in particular, it turns out, contained two whole stories rather than just the one: The World’s Finest (aka Public Enemies) and The Supergirl From Krypton.
I really enjoyed both and having just seen the movie Superman (2025) it was great seeing characters like Mr Terrific, Krypto and Supergirl all popping up and already having an idea of what they’re about.
World’s Finest was the best story of the two, particularly the last act which is full of spectacle and which James Gunn has hinted he will be borrowing from in the future.
These editions are far cheaper than the usual graphic novels/collections so they’re a great way to dip your toe in to stories you’re curious about without breaking the bank. I’ve already ordered a few more and look forward to checking them out.
June 23, 2015
This one started out super cartoony and over the top but it was able to turn it around and get better.
March 29, 2017
4.5
I really enjoyed the majority of this book. The storylines were interesting, especially the one shot with Tim and Connor. I loved constantly having insight into both Clark's and Bruce's thoughts. The parallels were lovely!
Seeing Bruce and Clark so supportive and, at times, protective of each other was great to see. It's a great representation of how much their long time friendship means to them.
This book shows them dealing with President Lex Luthor, the new Toyman, the arrival of Kara Zor-el and Darkseid. My problems with the book are in the last part.
Kara Zor-el is a teenager who is brand new to earth. She knows nothing of custom or tradition and she arrives naked. Which, okay maybe I can buy that even though the draping she's drawn in was a little questionable. What angered me was the throw away line that Lois bought clothes for her and she's later shown in a crop top with a visible thong. She's a teenager and she doesn't really know how things are meant to be worn. Clark also says she never met Lois in person so who taught her to wear clothes like that? Clark? Why would she dress herself that way? Why are the artists sexualizing a teenager who's a child and new to earth? Who was that for?
So that kept this from being perfect to me. You have a great opportunity with her story and the rift it's causing between Diana, Bruce and Clark and then the artist ruined it by drawing teen girl in a thong. Great.
I really enjoyed the majority of this book. The storylines were interesting, especially the one shot with Tim and Connor. I loved constantly having insight into both Clark's and Bruce's thoughts. The parallels were lovely!
Seeing Bruce and Clark so supportive and, at times, protective of each other was great to see. It's a great representation of how much their long time friendship means to them.
This book shows them dealing with President Lex Luthor, the new Toyman, the arrival of Kara Zor-el and Darkseid. My problems with the book are in the last part.
Kara Zor-el is a teenager who is brand new to earth. She knows nothing of custom or tradition and she arrives naked. Which, okay maybe I can buy that even though the draping she's drawn in was a little questionable. What angered me was the throw away line that Lois bought clothes for her and she's later shown in a crop top with a visible thong. She's a teenager and she doesn't really know how things are meant to be worn. Clark also says she never met Lois in person so who taught her to wear clothes like that? Clark? Why would she dress herself that way? Why are the artists sexualizing a teenager who's a child and new to earth? Who was that for?
So that kept this from being perfect to me. You have a great opportunity with her story and the rift it's causing between Diana, Bruce and Clark and then the artist ruined it by drawing teen girl in a thong. Great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2020
Superman and Batman are DC's best-known superheroes; they're also among my favorites, so, a comic featuring both of them is right up my alley. The appearance of other Justice League members, ranging from Wonder Woman to Supergirl to even a brief appearance by Martian Manhunter is icing on the cake.
I had fun with these stories; the artwork was amazing, and hearing Clark and Bruce's inner thoughts added more depth to the story. One event shown here broke my heart; I was glad when it was later revealed it wasn't quite as it appeared. (I won't reveal it here as not to give too much away.)
The only downsides were occasional profanity--though the amount of such language was much less than in most modern comic omnibuses I've read lately--and the immodest wardrobes of the characters, especially Supergirl. I didn't pay much attention to Kara Zor-El until Melissa Benoist played her on television; on that show--at least, up until the point I gave up on it because it jumped the shark--she was fully clothed...but, apparently, not in the comics. (Whatever happened to, "I wouldn't even wear this to the beach?")
I had fun with these stories; the artwork was amazing, and hearing Clark and Bruce's inner thoughts added more depth to the story. One event shown here broke my heart; I was glad when it was later revealed it wasn't quite as it appeared. (I won't reveal it here as not to give too much away.)
The only downsides were occasional profanity--though the amount of such language was much less than in most modern comic omnibuses I've read lately--and the immodest wardrobes of the characters, especially Supergirl. I didn't pay much attention to Kara Zor-El until Melissa Benoist played her on television; on that show--at least, up until the point I gave up on it because it jumped the shark--she was fully clothed...but, apparently, not in the comics. (Whatever happened to, "I wouldn't even wear this to the beach?")
August 2, 2016
Este tomo recopila las historias:
Enemigos públicos (#1-#6): Me encantó. Así de simple. La historia es bastante emocionante, nos presenta a superman y batman tratando de evitar que un meteorito se estrelle con el planeta mientras son declarados enemigos públicos por el presidente de los Estados Unidos.
Las ilustraciones son excelentes. Buenos dibujos con una gama de colores muy variada que logran que cada página tenga un brillo especial.
"No se qué es lo que en verdad recuerdo y qué lo que mi mente ha creado"
Pupilo (#7): Creo que sobretodo es un número de relleno por lo que la historia es floja y apresurada. Diría que no me gustó... de no ser por las ilustraciones. El artista usó unos colores mas oscuros por lo que a primera vista podría ser algo "triste" pero a detalle creo que es un trabajo muy bueno. Superboy ♥
"Cuando alguien trae esperanza a otra persona, es un regalo"
La superchica de Krypton (#8-#13): Una trama interesante con algunas batallas muy emocionantes y un plot twist(plot twist de comic, no de libro. Es decir, con menos profundidad) que te deja perplejo. La historia bastante buena, pero... el dibujo no me agradó tanto. Sobretodo por los colores. Creo que son muy monótonos y hacen que tu vista se pierda del punto de atención (mucho rojo, mucho amarillo, mucho naranja). Aún así creo que merece la pena.
Lo Mejor: El como el autor Jeph Loeb te muestra las tantas diferencias entre Superman y Batman. A lo largo de los 13 números te deja ver los pensamientos de ambos, tanto respecto a la situación como respecto a su compañero. Increíble.
Lo Peor: No creo que tenga algo que me disgustara.
OJO: Yo no soy ni pretendo ser un experto en cómics. Básicamente acabo de empezar a explorar este mundo, por tanto, que diga que la trama o los dibujos son malos o buenos no significa que lo sean. Es solo mi opinión.
DE LAS ADAPTACIONES:
Superman/Batman: Enemigos Públicos (2009): Es mas o menos buena adaptación. Es curiosa porque tiene partes exactas (incluso diálogos tal cual aparecen en el cómic) y otras que son completamente inventadas. Solo dura una hora así que no es gran perdida verla.
Superman/Batman: Apocalipsis (2010): PENDIENTE
Enemigos públicos (#1-#6): Me encantó. Así de simple. La historia es bastante emocionante, nos presenta a superman y batman tratando de evitar que un meteorito se estrelle con el planeta mientras son declarados enemigos públicos por el presidente de los Estados Unidos.
Las ilustraciones son excelentes. Buenos dibujos con una gama de colores muy variada que logran que cada página tenga un brillo especial.
"No se qué es lo que en verdad recuerdo y qué lo que mi mente ha creado"
Pupilo (#7): Creo que sobretodo es un número de relleno por lo que la historia es floja y apresurada. Diría que no me gustó... de no ser por las ilustraciones. El artista usó unos colores mas oscuros por lo que a primera vista podría ser algo "triste" pero a detalle creo que es un trabajo muy bueno. Superboy ♥
"Cuando alguien trae esperanza a otra persona, es un regalo"
La superchica de Krypton (#8-#13): Una trama interesante con algunas batallas muy emocionantes y un plot twist
Lo Mejor: El como el autor Jeph Loeb te muestra las tantas diferencias entre Superman y Batman. A lo largo de los 13 números te deja ver los pensamientos de ambos, tanto respecto a la situación como respecto a su compañero. Increíble.
Lo Peor: No creo que tenga algo que me disgustara.
OJO: Yo no soy ni pretendo ser un experto en cómics. Básicamente acabo de empezar a explorar este mundo, por tanto, que diga que la trama o los dibujos son malos o buenos no significa que lo sean. Es solo mi opinión.
DE LAS ADAPTACIONES:
Superman/Batman: Enemigos Públicos (2009): Es mas o menos buena adaptación. Es curiosa porque tiene partes exactas (incluso diálogos tal cual aparecen en el cómic) y otras que son completamente inventadas. Solo dura una hora así que no es gran perdida verla.
Superman/Batman: Apocalipsis (2010): PENDIENTE
July 17, 2015
Collectively I'm not the biggest fan of Batman or Superman but I spotted this when I was browsing the graphic novels at the store one day and thought it would be worth a shot. Superman/Batman Vol. 1 is money well spent as it turns out. About half the book is the six part Public Enemies storyline and the other half is Supergirl with a brief interlude involving Superboy and Robin in between.
Public Enemies follows Bruce and Clark as they try to clear Superman's name after Lex Luthor (now President of the US) names him enemy number one. A plethora of DC characters good and bad get involved in what turns out to be a somewhat more complex storyline than first appears. In Supergirl, Clark and Bruce are a bit at odds when Kara shows up on Earth. Bruce thinks she's part of a bigger plot while Clark just wants her to be part of the family like she really is. There's tension and a big bad and more DC characters involved.
The graphics feel more in line with the cartoons I watched when I was younger, but the storylines generally make up for the lack of visual sophistication. Overall a pretty solid collection that had me hooked most of the way through.
Public Enemies follows Bruce and Clark as they try to clear Superman's name after Lex Luthor (now President of the US) names him enemy number one. A plethora of DC characters good and bad get involved in what turns out to be a somewhat more complex storyline than first appears. In Supergirl, Clark and Bruce are a bit at odds when Kara shows up on Earth. Bruce thinks she's part of a bigger plot while Clark just wants her to be part of the family like she really is. There's tension and a big bad and more DC characters involved.
The graphics feel more in line with the cartoons I watched when I was younger, but the storylines generally make up for the lack of visual sophistication. Overall a pretty solid collection that had me hooked most of the way through.
February 25, 2016
The was a good story plus having seen the movie version of these stories made it a little more exciting for me. I will read the other volumes.
I didn't really like the Supergirl looks though but what are you going to do?
I didn't really like the Supergirl looks though but what are you going to do?
November 20, 2025
“If this is going to be our last stand, I can’t think of a better ally to fight alongside.”
4,5/5!
In the first story, long-time friends and colleagues, Superman and Batman team up to stop President Lex Luthor’s nefarious plans. But what happens when heroes who once were their allies are sent to capture Superman, whom Luthor has accused of crimes against humanity? The second story begins when a mysterious woman with superpowers appears in Gotham. What is this girl’s connection to Superman and can she be trusted?
I’ve enjoyed Jeph Loeb’s works before, so I had relatively high expectations for this book. Luckily, I was literally hooked from page one. I mean, having both Clark and Bruce narrate the stories of their childhoods and showing how they have both been through immense trauma but still grown up to be two very different men – what a way to start a story! I liked the writing throughout, especially when it came to the characters and their inner worlds. Jeph Loeb is quickly becoming one of my fave DC writers. He really gets these characters. The larger plotlines were good, but the first one with Lex Luthor as the villain felt like many other comics I have read, which is why I’ve decided to give this book ”just” 4,5/5 stars. The art was good, even though sometimes the male characters looked almost ridiculously ripped. The women, in turn, had ridiculously skimpy outfits which just felt impractical for people who spend their days fighting monsters and criminals.
First, let’s talk about my boy Superman. I loved how this book managed to make him both this near unbelievable, aspirational beacon of hope and a deeply human man who sometimes gets angry, makes decisions solely based on his heart and lashes out. You also get to see just how much destruction he can cause, if he deems it necessary – I loved this quote from Bruce: “It is a remarkable dichotomy. In many ways, Clark is the most human of us all. Then… he shoots fire from the skies and it is difficult not to think of him as a god.” Loeb beautiflly brings out Clark’s heart and how that is both his greatest strength and the thing that makes him most vulnerable. This is especially well depicted in the second story where he meets his cousin Kara for the first time. The way he tries his best to protect Kara, even when it leads him to be overprotective and overbearing got to me, got to me because you can just see how lonely it is to be Clark. Despite having a wife, a family and friends he loves and who love him, before Kara, he didn’t have anyone who understood what it’s like to live on Earth as a Kryptonian. Is it any wonder he is so ready to trust her, is near obsessive about keeping her close and keeps ? Through his instant affection for Kara, you can see just how crucial family is to him. An aspect of Clark I also really enjoyed was his dry sense of humor and how hanging around Bruce, who is not known for his sparkling good humor, really brings this side out in him.
Bruce is a character I grow more and more fond of with every banger comic I read. I vibed with his grumpy energy, and I appreciated how this book showcased his grey morality. He is a hero, but he will do what needs to be done (things, say, Superman, wouldn’t be able to do), even if it means getting his hands dirty. I also loved this description of him about himself: “I’m known as an urban myth, a frightening creature, the bogeyman. It is not a life I would wish on anyone.” It was a wonderful contrast to Clark’s parallel quote: ”I’m known as a hero, an inspiration, a champion. It’s been a good life.” The aspect of Batman that most got to me in this book was, no surprise, his relationship with his Robins, which is one of my favorite relationships in all of DC. He thinks, a handful of times, about what Dick Grayson was like when he was young (apparently he had some wild designs for a new Batmobile) and he spends quite a bit of time remembering Jason Todd, the Robin who died. This quote, as he thinks about Clark’s
Clark and Bruce’s relationship shines in this comic. You gotta love the platonic grumpy/sunshine partnership they got going on, and the way they poke fun at each other while caring for each other deeply, in a way neither of them seems quite able to verbalize. You also get to see just how brilliantly they work together – they have code words for fight maneuvers, and, despite one of them being a literal superpowered alien and the other a human man in a bat-suit, they complete each other in terms of fighting styles. Seeing how much they admire each other got to me. While Bruce sees Clark as a beacon of true goodness, Clark thinks of stuff like: “Even after all this time… Bruce’s courage… And people call me Superman.” But as much as they admire each other, they also see each other’s faults and know each other’s weaknesses. Bruce knows just how much Luthor’s crimes hurt Clark, and Clark knows how deeply wounded Bruce was by the murder of his parents. They are not cuddly and sweet, but theirs is a true, profound friendship built on mutual admiration, trust and thoroughly knowing the other. One of my favorite quotes from the comic was from Batman, as they are fighting a seemingly impossible hoard of enemies side by side: “I always thought if it were going to end, Clark would be there.” I mean, I cannot even. If I wasn’t a hardcore Clois girlie, this book might’ve made me a SuperBat girlie.
The side characters were also all good. Wonder Woman was her usual radiant self, and it was so much fun seeing her hang out with Superman and Batman. Her clashing with Superman was intriguing to see, cause usually they get along good as they are quite similar in terms of moral code and outlook on life. I loved how determined Diana was, in her own way, to help Kara make sense of her powers. Seeing Kara find her way to Earth and decide what her future should be was cool. I like her as a character a lot but I have not read many stories about her. It was also fun seeing Batman doubt her every word – cynical man that he is – and Superman trusting her implicitly. I loved the ending between the cousins, with Power Girl had some super wholesome moments (I really wanna learn more about her) and Katana was effortlessly cool (I also wanna learn more about her). I thought Barda telling Diana she has always admired her and found her very inspirational was very sweet and a great way to show just what an icon Wonder Woman is in this universe. Captain Atom's story surprised me and I ended up quite
Lex Luthor was an infuriating megalomaniac who is obsessed with Superman to a really unhealthy degree, but what else is new. Even though I said this story of him finding a way to try and sully Superman's good name and trying to destroy him didn't feel like anything super unique (that's basically the plot of all stories with Lex), I did think one aspect of Lex's character was, in this book, don exceptionally well. I know this book was written in the early 2000s, during the Bush administration, but let's just say that reading about Lex's presidency and seeing the way he wields his power felt eerily familiar and similar to today's political climate in the US. Lex wants to find a way to extend his presidency beyond the legal two term limit, he manipulates the people, he weaponises xenophobia and fear to bolster his own ideologies, and he doesn't give a shit about regular people who will get hurt by his policies and actions. It was really heartbreaking to read about how Clark, after all Lex has done to him, is most wounded by Lex taking over as the President of this country he so loves and using his power for his own nefarious purposes rather than for the benefit of the people. Clark wonders whether he should've tried to stop Lex from being elected, but then again, he wouldn't ever want to take away people's right to decide, to vote. All this talk regarding Lex's presidency was uncomfortably poignant, and Clark's desperate anger over someone like Lex being chosen as President was acutely familiar.
Krypto didn't appear much but still deserves his own paragraph, as he is the bestest boy, even though he was quite feral in this comic. Also, Batman only ever calling him "the dog" and constantly bringing him up in conversations to poke fun at Superman for having a dog in a cape for a guard at his Fortress. Speaking of guards, Alfred Pennyworth, this fancy polite butler, wielding a shotgun and defending the Batcave was a sight to behold. Gotta love Alfred.
This book felt, even though it did get a bit dark at times, wonderfully hopeful. Superheroes tend to always bring with them this sense of defiant hope – I mean, they are literally people who have dedicated their lives to helping, saving, protecting and fighting for a better world – but there's something about Clark's brand of hope that gets to me especially. Something about him being powerful enough to rule over us all but wanting, instead, to inspire us to be better and to serve us gets to me and warms my heart. That is a quality I also love in Wonder Woman. Characters driven so strongly by a love that extends to all life are my jam. Kara's story also felt really uplifting, as it's all about the freedom to choose, to decide who you wanna be and to follow your heart. She is put through the wringer with Darkseid after her (sidenote: Apokolips was delightfully gloomy place, a classic hell-like setting), but, as is so common with superheroes, all she goes through helps her find herself.
I would happily recommend this book to anyone looking for a Batman and Superman team up story. Though there are more in this series than just these two stories, you can read this book as a standalone – the ending feels very satisfying and like a true conclusion. There were some minor hiccups, such as the slight lack of originality in plot (and, though I get why she wasn't present much, the lack of Lois Lane – I would've loved to see more of her than just that one scene of her interviewing Lex which was, I have to admit, fab as she was having none of his shit), but overall this was a fabulous comic with a lot of heart, action, hope and excitement.
4,5/5!
In the first story, long-time friends and colleagues, Superman and Batman team up to stop President Lex Luthor’s nefarious plans. But what happens when heroes who once were their allies are sent to capture Superman, whom Luthor has accused of crimes against humanity? The second story begins when a mysterious woman with superpowers appears in Gotham. What is this girl’s connection to Superman and can she be trusted?
I’ve enjoyed Jeph Loeb’s works before, so I had relatively high expectations for this book. Luckily, I was literally hooked from page one. I mean, having both Clark and Bruce narrate the stories of their childhoods and showing how they have both been through immense trauma but still grown up to be two very different men – what a way to start a story! I liked the writing throughout, especially when it came to the characters and their inner worlds. Jeph Loeb is quickly becoming one of my fave DC writers. He really gets these characters. The larger plotlines were good, but the first one with Lex Luthor as the villain felt like many other comics I have read, which is why I’ve decided to give this book ”just” 4,5/5 stars. The art was good, even though sometimes the male characters looked almost ridiculously ripped. The women, in turn, had ridiculously skimpy outfits which just felt impractical for people who spend their days fighting monsters and criminals.
First, let’s talk about my boy Superman. I loved how this book managed to make him both this near unbelievable, aspirational beacon of hope and a deeply human man who sometimes gets angry, makes decisions solely based on his heart and lashes out. You also get to see just how much destruction he can cause, if he deems it necessary – I loved this quote from Bruce: “It is a remarkable dichotomy. In many ways, Clark is the most human of us all. Then… he shoots fire from the skies and it is difficult not to think of him as a god.” Loeb beautiflly brings out Clark’s heart and how that is both his greatest strength and the thing that makes him most vulnerable. This is especially well depicted in the second story where he meets his cousin Kara for the first time. The way he tries his best to protect Kara, even when it leads him to be overprotective and overbearing got to me, got to me because you can just see how lonely it is to be Clark. Despite having a wife, a family and friends he loves and who love him, before Kara, he didn’t have anyone who understood what it’s like to live on Earth as a Kryptonian. Is it any wonder he is so ready to trust her, is near obsessive about keeping her close and keeps ? Through his instant affection for Kara, you can see just how crucial family is to him. An aspect of Clark I also really enjoyed was his dry sense of humor and how hanging around Bruce, who is not known for his sparkling good humor, really brings this side out in him.
Bruce is a character I grow more and more fond of with every banger comic I read. I vibed with his grumpy energy, and I appreciated how this book showcased his grey morality. He is a hero, but he will do what needs to be done (things, say, Superman, wouldn’t be able to do), even if it means getting his hands dirty. I also loved this description of him about himself: “I’m known as an urban myth, a frightening creature, the bogeyman. It is not a life I would wish on anyone.” It was a wonderful contrast to Clark’s parallel quote: ”I’m known as a hero, an inspiration, a champion. It’s been a good life.” The aspect of Batman that most got to me in this book was, no surprise, his relationship with his Robins, which is one of my favorite relationships in all of DC. He thinks, a handful of times, about what Dick Grayson was like when he was young (apparently he had some wild designs for a new Batmobile) and he spends quite a bit of time remembering Jason Todd, the Robin who died. This quote, as he thinks about Clark’s
Clark and Bruce’s relationship shines in this comic. You gotta love the platonic grumpy/sunshine partnership they got going on, and the way they poke fun at each other while caring for each other deeply, in a way neither of them seems quite able to verbalize. You also get to see just how brilliantly they work together – they have code words for fight maneuvers, and, despite one of them being a literal superpowered alien and the other a human man in a bat-suit, they complete each other in terms of fighting styles. Seeing how much they admire each other got to me. While Bruce sees Clark as a beacon of true goodness, Clark thinks of stuff like: “Even after all this time… Bruce’s courage… And people call me Superman.” But as much as they admire each other, they also see each other’s faults and know each other’s weaknesses. Bruce knows just how much Luthor’s crimes hurt Clark, and Clark knows how deeply wounded Bruce was by the murder of his parents. They are not cuddly and sweet, but theirs is a true, profound friendship built on mutual admiration, trust and thoroughly knowing the other. One of my favorite quotes from the comic was from Batman, as they are fighting a seemingly impossible hoard of enemies side by side: “I always thought if it were going to end, Clark would be there.” I mean, I cannot even. If I wasn’t a hardcore Clois girlie, this book might’ve made me a SuperBat girlie.
The side characters were also all good. Wonder Woman was her usual radiant self, and it was so much fun seeing her hang out with Superman and Batman. Her clashing with Superman was intriguing to see, cause usually they get along good as they are quite similar in terms of moral code and outlook on life. I loved how determined Diana was, in her own way, to help Kara make sense of her powers. Seeing Kara find her way to Earth and decide what her future should be was cool. I like her as a character a lot but I have not read many stories about her. It was also fun seeing Batman doubt her every word – cynical man that he is – and Superman trusting her implicitly. I loved the ending between the cousins, with Power Girl had some super wholesome moments (I really wanna learn more about her) and Katana was effortlessly cool (I also wanna learn more about her). I thought Barda telling Diana she has always admired her and found her very inspirational was very sweet and a great way to show just what an icon Wonder Woman is in this universe. Captain Atom's story surprised me and I ended up quite
Lex Luthor was an infuriating megalomaniac who is obsessed with Superman to a really unhealthy degree, but what else is new. Even though I said this story of him finding a way to try and sully Superman's good name and trying to destroy him didn't feel like anything super unique (that's basically the plot of all stories with Lex), I did think one aspect of Lex's character was, in this book, don exceptionally well. I know this book was written in the early 2000s, during the Bush administration, but let's just say that reading about Lex's presidency and seeing the way he wields his power felt eerily familiar and similar to today's political climate in the US. Lex wants to find a way to extend his presidency beyond the legal two term limit, he manipulates the people, he weaponises xenophobia and fear to bolster his own ideologies, and he doesn't give a shit about regular people who will get hurt by his policies and actions. It was really heartbreaking to read about how Clark, after all Lex has done to him, is most wounded by Lex taking over as the President of this country he so loves and using his power for his own nefarious purposes rather than for the benefit of the people. Clark wonders whether he should've tried to stop Lex from being elected, but then again, he wouldn't ever want to take away people's right to decide, to vote. All this talk regarding Lex's presidency was uncomfortably poignant, and Clark's desperate anger over someone like Lex being chosen as President was acutely familiar.
Krypto didn't appear much but still deserves his own paragraph, as he is the bestest boy, even though he was quite feral in this comic. Also, Batman only ever calling him "the dog" and constantly bringing him up in conversations to poke fun at Superman for having a dog in a cape for a guard at his Fortress. Speaking of guards, Alfred Pennyworth, this fancy polite butler, wielding a shotgun and defending the Batcave was a sight to behold. Gotta love Alfred.
This book felt, even though it did get a bit dark at times, wonderfully hopeful. Superheroes tend to always bring with them this sense of defiant hope – I mean, they are literally people who have dedicated their lives to helping, saving, protecting and fighting for a better world – but there's something about Clark's brand of hope that gets to me especially. Something about him being powerful enough to rule over us all but wanting, instead, to inspire us to be better and to serve us gets to me and warms my heart. That is a quality I also love in Wonder Woman. Characters driven so strongly by a love that extends to all life are my jam. Kara's story also felt really uplifting, as it's all about the freedom to choose, to decide who you wanna be and to follow your heart. She is put through the wringer with Darkseid after her (sidenote: Apokolips was delightfully gloomy place, a classic hell-like setting), but, as is so common with superheroes, all she goes through helps her find herself.
I would happily recommend this book to anyone looking for a Batman and Superman team up story. Though there are more in this series than just these two stories, you can read this book as a standalone – the ending feels very satisfying and like a true conclusion. There were some minor hiccups, such as the slight lack of originality in plot (and, though I get why she wasn't present much, the lack of Lois Lane – I would've loved to see more of her than just that one scene of her interviewing Lex which was, I have to admit, fab as she was having none of his shit), but overall this was a fabulous comic with a lot of heart, action, hope and excitement.
August 29, 2022
I'm gonna use a word I almost use about comics to describe this series: annoying. I found this absolutely excruciating to read. Loeb, who is normally a solid writer, has gone full blown cornball for this series, opting for a format where he has to have both Superman and Batman narrate every single thing that's happening from 5% different viewpoints, all while spending a lot of that narration using extravagant, exaggerated language to describe how impressed they are by each other. "Clark-- I'll never understand how he does it. Hefting the hopes of all mankind upon his humble shoulders, never flinching in the face of adversity." "Bruce-- the loss, the very grief he suffers-- unimaginable. And yet verily he hath transfixed it into a cause for justice and hope!" OK so it's not that bad, but it's pretty close, and it's absolutely nonstop.
And then there are the plots, which start from a point of sheer unbelievability (The entire superhero community turns on Superman because Lex Luthor told them to? There's another person from Krypton who just happens to show up right when Superman's feeling lonely?), then slump along from giant fight to giant fight, making sure to follow the "Hush" formula of throwing everyone at our guys that they've ever met or even heard of, and then dropping unearned twist after unearned twist until each story reaches an eye-rolling resolution.
I think normally with a comic like this I'd just drop a quick review saying "not for me" and move on, but there's something about the sheer pretentiousness of this one, the way its written like it's the Most Important Comic of All Time, that gives me Zack Snyder vibes that I'm just not really looking for in, well, anything I ever read. These guys are not gods, they're cosmic weirdoes in capes and spandex. It's very hard to take them seriously when they're holding forth about the hopes of the world, etc.
The only saving grace, sort of, is the art, which is technically extremely good, though I don't know if they could've hired two hornier guys to draw this stuff. Both artists in this seemingly only knew how to draw women from behind, bending over, or posing so that you can see fully inside of them. The details and action are very well-executed, but I just wish there was some variation in how people looked, or a woman existed who didn't look like a 90's teenage boy's Baywatch fantasy.
Anyway, won't be continuing with this series. It's for the best!
And then there are the plots, which start from a point of sheer unbelievability (The entire superhero community turns on Superman because Lex Luthor told them to? There's another person from Krypton who just happens to show up right when Superman's feeling lonely?), then slump along from giant fight to giant fight, making sure to follow the "Hush" formula of throwing everyone at our guys that they've ever met or even heard of, and then dropping unearned twist after unearned twist until each story reaches an eye-rolling resolution.
I think normally with a comic like this I'd just drop a quick review saying "not for me" and move on, but there's something about the sheer pretentiousness of this one, the way its written like it's the Most Important Comic of All Time, that gives me Zack Snyder vibes that I'm just not really looking for in, well, anything I ever read. These guys are not gods, they're cosmic weirdoes in capes and spandex. It's very hard to take them seriously when they're holding forth about the hopes of the world, etc.
The only saving grace, sort of, is the art, which is technically extremely good, though I don't know if they could've hired two hornier guys to draw this stuff. Both artists in this seemingly only knew how to draw women from behind, bending over, or posing so that you can see fully inside of them. The details and action are very well-executed, but I just wish there was some variation in how people looked, or a woman existed who didn't look like a 90's teenage boy's Baywatch fantasy.
Anyway, won't be continuing with this series. It's for the best!
August 4, 2020
People love this series! I mean OTHER people love this series - I did NOT. Let me go on my island all alone and tell you a secret - I think Jeph Loeb is a stinky writer. Overrated and over represented. The Long Halloween? You got the LONG part right. Hush? More like "Mush"..together a bunch of villains and call it a classic. And this run? Yikes, it just cements why I don't like him. The short reason is "this story makes no sense but keep the over the top action coming so fast we don't notice it".
Admittedly, the second story arc with Supergirl was an improvement over Public enemies mostly because the art by Michael Turner (RIP) is so much better than Ed McGuiness.
Public enemies is such a case of "I want B to happen so I will make up an insane reason for it happening". In this case "B" was have Superman declared a public enemy by President Luthor (don't get me started) and have every villain and super hero hunt him down. The insane reason was "there is a kryptonite meteor coming towards Earth...that means it is Superman's fault...kill him". You know - the guy who saves the Earth five times before breakfast every morning...kill THAT guy. Jeph - you are the laziest writer I have every read.
What also drove me crazy was Jeph decided to have dueling narration boxes with the red ones being Superman's inner dialogue and the blue ones being Batman's. And how super annoying - they mirror each other. "Bruce's strength comes from his inability to accept defeat" "Clark is the strongest man I know because no one can ever defeat his inner-spirit" "I love my Fortress of Solitude, it is a place to get away from it all" "My Batcave is so much better than Clark's fortress of solitude because I don't have to pick crystals out of my ass every time I sit down" "I always have to shampoo the bat piss out of my hair after I visit Bruce in his batcave" "Clark's shampoo has too fruity a smell for me - you need a strong shampoo to get out bat piss - and that's why my cowl covers my head - less bat piss to clean off". Jeph you lazy AND pretentious writer.
Uck...I don't understand why people like his stuff so much. Once again...after reading this...I know I will never be a fan.
Admittedly, the second story arc with Supergirl was an improvement over Public enemies mostly because the art by Michael Turner (RIP) is so much better than Ed McGuiness.
Public enemies is such a case of "I want B to happen so I will make up an insane reason for it happening". In this case "B" was have Superman declared a public enemy by President Luthor (don't get me started) and have every villain and super hero hunt him down. The insane reason was "there is a kryptonite meteor coming towards Earth...that means it is Superman's fault...kill him". You know - the guy who saves the Earth five times before breakfast every morning...kill THAT guy. Jeph - you are the laziest writer I have every read.
What also drove me crazy was Jeph decided to have dueling narration boxes with the red ones being Superman's inner dialogue and the blue ones being Batman's. And how super annoying - they mirror each other. "Bruce's strength comes from his inability to accept defeat" "Clark is the strongest man I know because no one can ever defeat his inner-spirit" "I love my Fortress of Solitude, it is a place to get away from it all" "My Batcave is so much better than Clark's fortress of solitude because I don't have to pick crystals out of my ass every time I sit down" "I always have to shampoo the bat piss out of my hair after I visit Bruce in his batcave" "Clark's shampoo has too fruity a smell for me - you need a strong shampoo to get out bat piss - and that's why my cowl covers my head - less bat piss to clean off". Jeph you lazy AND pretentious writer.
Uck...I don't understand why people like his stuff so much. Once again...after reading this...I know I will never be a fan.
July 27, 2025
YESSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YYYYYY
EEEEEE
SSSSSSS
YESSS!!!!!!!!!!!!
YYYYYY
EEEEEE
SSSSSSS
YESSS!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 26, 2015
Honestly, I love this. Bats and Supes are my absolute favorites, and Loeb is a magnificent writer. If you haven't picked this up yet, do it.
February 6, 2017
With fantastic artwork and a decent story, this is a great collection to use as a starting point for people wanting to get into reading about the exploits of Superman & Batman.
October 8, 2017
The use of the dual voice is fantastic. Unfortunately the series still come down to solving problems by might rather than brains.
Read
November 11, 2020While this is fun at times, it’s predictably decompressed and the constant dual narration makes for a crowded read. Instead of contrasting Batman and Superman with narration, how about having more scenes of them actually talking and interacting? Loeb is a writer who almost always uses narration, I get it. There are times when it works (Superman for All Seasons) but this is not one of those times.
April 6, 2025
4.5 Stars, For me one of the best examples of how the contrast of Batman and Superman can work well.
Not many have achieved the same mastery of that. wonderful use of combining the light and dark, Clarks optimism against Bruces more calculated mind set if you're looking for a great team up book, this is definitely one to try.
Not many have achieved the same mastery of that. wonderful use of combining the light and dark, Clarks optimism against Bruces more calculated mind set if you're looking for a great team up book, this is definitely one to try.
August 19, 2025
3.5 Supergirls return post crisis! While not as strong as Loeb earlier work, more actions in the 2000’s, I liked how it connected a lot and the duo of our world finest
August 5, 2025
Loeb displays a wonderful understanding of the motivations, hopes, dreams, ideals, and fears of Batman and Superman. Consistent thought bubbles provide insight into the inner-lives of its title characters and, more interestingly, their thoughts concerning each other and their shared friendship.
These opening arcs of Superman/Batman present Batman and Superman working together to foil the schemes of Lex Luthor followed by navigating differing practices on the sudden arrival of Supergirl.
The art direction is consistent throughout and, while your milage may vary, I found it enjoyable, if a little cartoonish and campy at times. In fact, the whole comic reminded me a lot of the DC Animated Universe, which is always a pleasure.
The comics do contain some artifacts of their 2003 origins, including some unfortunately male gaze-y art. That said, cringy fan service is, thankfully, kept to a minimum.
It’s worth making a note that I read the DC Compact Adventures printing. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the smaller page size never bothered me. This printing feels like a trade paperback novel, which is fun, complete with soft pulpy paper, my favorite paper choice for comics.
However, the pages are printed with little margin, so some of the art is lost where the pages are bound together, making the 2-page spreads a bit of a challenge and, occasionally, I had to bend the book open farther than I would like to read a text box, stressing the binding. That said, while I borrowed my copy from the library, $10 is dirt cheap for 304 pages of comic book goodness. I really can't criticize a budget copy at that price point.
It’s well worth a read. It’s a pair of quintessentially comic book-y stories with some real heart and expertly explores the key differences between The Man of Steel and The Dark Knight for the price of a cup of craft coffee.
These opening arcs of Superman/Batman present Batman and Superman working together to foil the schemes of Lex Luthor followed by navigating differing practices on the sudden arrival of Supergirl.
The art direction is consistent throughout and, while your milage may vary, I found it enjoyable, if a little cartoonish and campy at times. In fact, the whole comic reminded me a lot of the DC Animated Universe, which is always a pleasure.
The comics do contain some artifacts of their 2003 origins, including some unfortunately male gaze-y art. That said, cringy fan service is, thankfully, kept to a minimum.
It’s worth making a note that I read the DC Compact Adventures printing. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the smaller page size never bothered me. This printing feels like a trade paperback novel, which is fun, complete with soft pulpy paper, my favorite paper choice for comics.
However, the pages are printed with little margin, so some of the art is lost where the pages are bound together, making the 2-page spreads a bit of a challenge and, occasionally, I had to bend the book open farther than I would like to read a text box, stressing the binding. That said, while I borrowed my copy from the library, $10 is dirt cheap for 304 pages of comic book goodness. I really can't criticize a budget copy at that price point.
It’s well worth a read. It’s a pair of quintessentially comic book-y stories with some real heart and expertly explores the key differences between The Man of Steel and The Dark Knight for the price of a cup of craft coffee.
August 19, 2025
3.5⭐️
Let me start with the art is truly gorgeous. Wow! Overall, the story isn’t bad but it felt choppy and long. Like, the whole Kara (Supergirl) part at the end, just felt like why. I understand how it connects, but I just think it could’ve been its own thing.
Let me start with the art is truly gorgeous. Wow! Overall, the story isn’t bad but it felt choppy and long. Like, the whole Kara (Supergirl) part at the end, just felt like why. I understand how it connects, but I just think it could’ve been its own thing.
August 3, 2025
This was my first "compact" comic, so after reading so many oversized omnis, it was a bit more refreshing to have a palm sized read. And as for the content, the 2 storylines included, "Public Enemies" and "Supergirl" are both really fun, the latter especially to get some more context after the new Superman movie. I'm a fan of Ed McGuinness' art and Mike Turner does a good job in the second half as well. Overall, a good bite sized set of stories with DCs two most favourite characters, it might convince me to invest in the Omnibus in the future.
September 8, 2013
I enjoyed it. :)
The first absolute edition is printed and created to match all the others. Same height and quality allowing probably the best edition of the artwork ever published in this over-sized printing. The first edition (it is numbered "1" on the spine) contains two story arcs. The first features Lex Luther as the president finding a way to use his position to try to bring about the arrest of Superman. Batman teams up with him to keep this from happening. When these issues were first appearing I picked one up somewhere and got to read thru a fight scene where a small host of enemies attacked Supes and Batman trying to take them down. There is a lot more going on behind the scenes.
The second arc changes artists. The first is slightly cartoony but nicely done. The second features Michael Turner and different colorist and the color scheme and atmosphere is different. Both stories are well illustrated IMHO.
The second story picks up right after the first and introduces someone who appears to be Superman's cousin. But is she real? And why is Darkseid interested in her? This story shows Superman struggling with being overprotective and the proper boundaries with the girl that seems to be his cousin. We do get a look at Darkeid's world, Big Barda and few good fight scenes as the story progresses.
Overall I enjoyed this. Enough that I went ahead and per-ordered volume 2. But, unlike some of the best Absolute stories this one did not grab me emotionally as some others have. I paid less than $60 shipped (Amazon pre-order price) and I would have been less happy were I closer to retail ($99.99). If you do not have any Absolute editions this is not a must have story IMHO unless you have read it in the past and know you will love it.
The first absolute edition is printed and created to match all the others. Same height and quality allowing probably the best edition of the artwork ever published in this over-sized printing. The first edition (it is numbered "1" on the spine) contains two story arcs. The first features Lex Luther as the president finding a way to use his position to try to bring about the arrest of Superman. Batman teams up with him to keep this from happening. When these issues were first appearing I picked one up somewhere and got to read thru a fight scene where a small host of enemies attacked Supes and Batman trying to take them down. There is a lot more going on behind the scenes.
The second arc changes artists. The first is slightly cartoony but nicely done. The second features Michael Turner and different colorist and the color scheme and atmosphere is different. Both stories are well illustrated IMHO.
The second story picks up right after the first and introduces someone who appears to be Superman's cousin. But is she real? And why is Darkseid interested in her? This story shows Superman struggling with being overprotective and the proper boundaries with the girl that seems to be his cousin. We do get a look at Darkeid's world, Big Barda and few good fight scenes as the story progresses.
Overall I enjoyed this. Enough that I went ahead and per-ordered volume 2. But, unlike some of the best Absolute stories this one did not grab me emotionally as some others have. I paid less than $60 shipped (Amazon pre-order price) and I would have been less happy were I closer to retail ($99.99). If you do not have any Absolute editions this is not a must have story IMHO unless you have read it in the past and know you will love it.
April 14, 2016
THIS MAY CONTAIN SOME SPOILERS. DON'T READ THIS IN CASE YOU'RE PLANNING ON READING THE BOOK. This is a 3.5 star book. It was an enjoyable read. It had some very good moments every now and then. It was very interesting to see how each Hero described the other. It really made us readers dive deep into Superman's and Batman's psyches, but, in other instances it got a little bit repetitive and cheesy. For an entire book, Batman and Superman are talking about each other, what the other might be thinking now. I think Jeph Loeb (while having a very deep understanding of the characters) over did it sometimes. The introduction of this book is one of the best i ever read on Batman and Superman. He brilliantly explains in 2 pages why each one is who he is. He explains in a very clever way why both of them have very similar goals and yet very different methods. It was brilliant. The art by Ed McGuiness was Ok, but felt a bit cartoonish, i was not a big fan of it in comparison to Michael Turner's art which i found absolutely perfect and stunning. The colors specially in the Supergirl story line were spectacular. I give his art 10/10.
What I disliked the most about the book was the Superman/Darkseid fight. Superman's dialogue during the fight was super cheesy, you don't mention "ice cream or pie or car rides when you are fighting an evil god".
Other than that, it was a good book. I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in knowing Batman and Superman better. The entire book focuses on their inner psychology. You get to know what motivates them. You get to know how each one of them sees things and judges things. It's worth the read definitely and the book has so many good things going on that i was willing to overlook the few flaws it had.
What I disliked the most about the book was the Superman/Darkseid fight. Superman's dialogue during the fight was super cheesy, you don't mention "ice cream or pie or car rides when you are fighting an evil god".
Other than that, it was a good book. I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in knowing Batman and Superman better. The entire book focuses on their inner psychology. You get to know what motivates them. You get to know how each one of them sees things and judges things. It's worth the read definitely and the book has so many good things going on that i was willing to overlook the few flaws it had.
July 18, 2017
Now this is a good Superman / Batman story! In the first part of the story megalomaniacal President Lex Luthor calls for Superman to surrender when a giant Kryptonian meteorite is headed for Earth. Luthor then sends other superheroes to bring Supes and Bats in, but they have some help on their side, too. Lex goes over the deep end taking Bane's strength syrum and is exposed for the super villain he truly is. Part two is the story of Kara Zor-El, Superman's cousin from Krypton, who arrived on Earth with the meteor. Batman doesn't trust her, Superman wants to protect her, and Wonder Woman wants to train her, but Kara wants to decide her own fate.
July 21, 2025
You know what, I genuinely enjoy reading a variety of Superman comic books now but this works for me because of Superman and Batman together. Their relationship show on these pages makes the story worth telling. I liked the inclusion of Supergirl and now I know where that famous half naked comic book panel of Superman and Supergirl comes from I really enjoyed the story told, I was super invested and wanted to constantly keep on reading.
DC Compact Comics | Jeph Loeb
DC Compact Comics | Jeph Loeb
January 9, 2020
Superman/Batman is an on-going comic book series published by DC Comics that features the publisher's two most popular characters: Clark Kent as Superman and Bruce Wayne as Batman. This series would explore the camaraderie, antagonism, and friendship between the titular characters.
Superman/Batman Vol. 1 collects the first thirteen issues of the 2003 on-going series and parts from Superman/Batman Secret Files and Origins 2003 and covers four stories: "The World’s Finest", "Protégé", "The Supergirl From Krypton", and "When Clark Met Bruce: A Tale from the Days of Smallville".
"The World’s Finest" is a six-issue storyline (Superman/Batman #1–6) has U.S. President Lex Luthor declares Superman and Batman enemies of the state, claiming that a Kryptonite asteroid headed for Earth is connected to an evil plot by Superman and offers a billion dollar bounty, which encourages both supervillains and superheroes to attack.
"The Supergirl from Krypton" is a six-issue storyline (Superman/Batman #8–13), has revealed that the Kryptonite asteroid is revealed to hold a pod that contains Superman's cousin Kara Zor-El. Batman says her arrival is too coincidental, while Wonder Woman abducts Kara to Themyscira to train her for combat. Darkseid kidnaps Kara, intending her to be the new leader of the Female Furies.
"Protégé" is an-one issue storyline (Superman/Batman #7) has Conner Kent as Superboy and Tim Drake as Robin investigate Hiro Okamura as the new Toyman for their mentors and possible recruitment. "When Clark Met Bruce: A Tale from the Days of Smallville" is a short story from Superman/Batman Secret Files and Origins 2003 that has a young Bruce Wayne getting stuck in Smallville, Kansas as Alfred Pennyworth makes repairs. In a nearby field, Clark Kent and Pete Ross play baseball. They notice the sad looking Wayne child in the window of the car, just as it drives away. Clark wonders if perhaps they should have asked him to play ball with them.
Jeph Loeb penned the entire trade paperback. For the most part, it is written rather well, Loeb wrote in a dual-narrative manner, which gives two perspectives on the same event from the titular characters, which often are opposing viewpoints and estimations of each other. In this trade paperback, Loeb introduces a new Toyman in Hiro Okamura and reintroduced Kara Zor-El as Supergirl.
Ed McGuinness (Superman/Batman #1–6), Michael Turner (Superman #8–13), Pat Lee (Superman/Batman #7), and Tim Sale ("When Clark Met Bruce: A Tale from the Days of Smallville", Superman/Batman Secret Files and Origins 2003) penciled the trade paperback. The penciling styles complemented each other rather well, while still distinct, which made the artistic flow rather jagged. However, since there was one penciler for each storyline – the artistic flow change was expected.
All in all, Superman/Batman Vol. 1 is a good start to what would hopefully be a wonderful series.
Superman/Batman Vol. 1 collects the first thirteen issues of the 2003 on-going series and parts from Superman/Batman Secret Files and Origins 2003 and covers four stories: "The World’s Finest", "Protégé", "The Supergirl From Krypton", and "When Clark Met Bruce: A Tale from the Days of Smallville".
"The World’s Finest" is a six-issue storyline (Superman/Batman #1–6) has U.S. President Lex Luthor declares Superman and Batman enemies of the state, claiming that a Kryptonite asteroid headed for Earth is connected to an evil plot by Superman and offers a billion dollar bounty, which encourages both supervillains and superheroes to attack.
"The Supergirl from Krypton" is a six-issue storyline (Superman/Batman #8–13), has revealed that the Kryptonite asteroid is revealed to hold a pod that contains Superman's cousin Kara Zor-El. Batman says her arrival is too coincidental, while Wonder Woman abducts Kara to Themyscira to train her for combat. Darkseid kidnaps Kara, intending her to be the new leader of the Female Furies.
"Protégé" is an-one issue storyline (Superman/Batman #7) has Conner Kent as Superboy and Tim Drake as Robin investigate Hiro Okamura as the new Toyman for their mentors and possible recruitment. "When Clark Met Bruce: A Tale from the Days of Smallville" is a short story from Superman/Batman Secret Files and Origins 2003 that has a young Bruce Wayne getting stuck in Smallville, Kansas as Alfred Pennyworth makes repairs. In a nearby field, Clark Kent and Pete Ross play baseball. They notice the sad looking Wayne child in the window of the car, just as it drives away. Clark wonders if perhaps they should have asked him to play ball with them.
Jeph Loeb penned the entire trade paperback. For the most part, it is written rather well, Loeb wrote in a dual-narrative manner, which gives two perspectives on the same event from the titular characters, which often are opposing viewpoints and estimations of each other. In this trade paperback, Loeb introduces a new Toyman in Hiro Okamura and reintroduced Kara Zor-El as Supergirl.
Ed McGuinness (Superman/Batman #1–6), Michael Turner (Superman #8–13), Pat Lee (Superman/Batman #7), and Tim Sale ("When Clark Met Bruce: A Tale from the Days of Smallville", Superman/Batman Secret Files and Origins 2003) penciled the trade paperback. The penciling styles complemented each other rather well, while still distinct, which made the artistic flow rather jagged. However, since there was one penciler for each storyline – the artistic flow change was expected.
All in all, Superman/Batman Vol. 1 is a good start to what would hopefully be a wonderful series.
December 9, 2016
There is no doubt in the mind of any fan of comic books that Batman and Superman are the two superstars of the DC Comics line. They are two different personalities, yet both have a strong sense of decency and a desire to make the world better. In this set of continuing, yet largely distinct stories, we see inside their psyches while they face off against powerful adversaries.
An unusual and very effective technique is used in the stories. Secondary segments of dialog that are coded blue for Batman and yellow for Superman are included in the captions. Their innermost thoughts regarding the current situation are expressed there and the reader is exposed to some depth within their personalities.
In the opening story, Lex Luthor is the elected president of the United States and a large asteroid made of kryptonite is headed for Earth. It is being drawn to Superman and since his hatred is consuming, Luthor declares Superman and his ally Batman to be criminals to be captured. A bounty of one billion dollars is being offered for the delivery of Superman to federal authorities. Since this is a task that only those with superpowers could possibly carry out, it brings out the villains with superpowers as well as the heroes that have been ordered to capture Superman. It creates a rift among the members of the JLA.
There is a strong supporting role for Wonder Woman in the stories after Supergirl arrives on Earth. With no understanding of Earth and the human cultures, Supergirl must be educated in the ways of the planet and there are some things that Kal-El has difficulty in dealing with. He takes on the role of an older, protective male when he should allow Kara Zor-El to make her own decisions.
This is simultaneously the most logical as well as the most illogical team-up of heroes in the DC line. The difference in their level of powers is substantial with that of their personalities matching. Yet, they also complement each other very well, Batman trusts no one while Superman is inclined to be too optimistic regarding human behavior. The combination makes for an excellent set of stories.
An unusual and very effective technique is used in the stories. Secondary segments of dialog that are coded blue for Batman and yellow for Superman are included in the captions. Their innermost thoughts regarding the current situation are expressed there and the reader is exposed to some depth within their personalities.
In the opening story, Lex Luthor is the elected president of the United States and a large asteroid made of kryptonite is headed for Earth. It is being drawn to Superman and since his hatred is consuming, Luthor declares Superman and his ally Batman to be criminals to be captured. A bounty of one billion dollars is being offered for the delivery of Superman to federal authorities. Since this is a task that only those with superpowers could possibly carry out, it brings out the villains with superpowers as well as the heroes that have been ordered to capture Superman. It creates a rift among the members of the JLA.
There is a strong supporting role for Wonder Woman in the stories after Supergirl arrives on Earth. With no understanding of Earth and the human cultures, Supergirl must be educated in the ways of the planet and there are some things that Kal-El has difficulty in dealing with. He takes on the role of an older, protective male when he should allow Kara Zor-El to make her own decisions.
This is simultaneously the most logical as well as the most illogical team-up of heroes in the DC line. The difference in their level of powers is substantial with that of their personalities matching. Yet, they also complement each other very well, Batman trusts no one while Superman is inclined to be too optimistic regarding human behavior. The combination makes for an excellent set of stories.
June 17, 2023
Superman/Batman, Vol. 1 (New Edition) was a mixed bag for me. I enjoyed the first main story, but it wasn't without its flaws. It was about President Lex Luthor using the arrival of an asteroid as a pretext to have Superman persecuted. The plot was great. It was high stakes and had some great action. I also like seeing Batman and Superman working together. There was some tension and great banter between them. The dialogue was great and they both utilized each other's strengths well. The pacing was a bit off - and I wish they'd explain the motivations of various superheroes for which side they chose to help - but the story was solid overall.
The other story wasn't as good. This one involved Supergirl landing in Gotham Harbor. From the beginning of this story, Supergirl's character was objectified (especially in how she was drawn) - and so were other female characters in this story (like Artemis). Also, while I can understand Superman being protective, his reactions became a bit annoying after a while (like how he blamed Wonder Woman for what happened to Supergirl in parts of this story). Supergirl was also largely a secondary character without much agency throughout the story (though that got much better towards the end).
Her struggles on Earth were written well though and I think her reactions to what happened around her were understandable. This story also opens up new and promising storylines for her in future books. As for the plot of the second main story itself, it was also tense and exciting. The motivations and actions of Batman and Wonder Woman were also understandable too. Nonetheless, the pacing was a bit rushed in this one.
Overall, this book had a mixture of pros and cons. The characters were great and the stories themselves were good altogether. However, there were issues with the art and pacing.
The other story wasn't as good. This one involved Supergirl landing in Gotham Harbor. From the beginning of this story, Supergirl's character was objectified (especially in how she was drawn) - and so were other female characters in this story (like Artemis). Also, while I can understand Superman being protective, his reactions became a bit annoying after a while (like how he blamed Wonder Woman for what happened to Supergirl in parts of this story). Supergirl was also largely a secondary character without much agency throughout the story (though that got much better towards the end).
Her struggles on Earth were written well though and I think her reactions to what happened around her were understandable. This story also opens up new and promising storylines for her in future books. As for the plot of the second main story itself, it was also tense and exciting. The motivations and actions of Batman and Wonder Woman were also understandable too. Nonetheless, the pacing was a bit rushed in this one.
Overall, this book had a mixture of pros and cons. The characters were great and the stories themselves were good altogether. However, there were issues with the art and pacing.
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