Superman/Batman #13

The Supergirl from Krypton Part Six: Hero

Jeph Loeb Writer
Michael Turner Artist
Peter Steigerwald Colors
Richard Starkings Letters
Tom Palmer, Jr. Associate Editor
Eddie Berganza Editor
Superman created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster
Batman created by Bob Kane

Just when I thought I wouldn't see Michael Turner's art again on this blog, I get to (briefly) review an entire issue drawn by him. This cover is a striking image — an angry Superman and Batman behind Darkseid and the burning Kent farm. I think Batman's ears are a bit too long, and maybe everybody's muscles are bit exaggerated. But it's not too bad.

Turner also drew the variant cover, which is a simple pin-up of the new Supergirl. This could have and should have been a beautiful work of art. But Supergirl's legs don't quite seem connected to her body. And her face is vapid and dull. This is a perfect example of a common criticism of Turner's work — that he can only draw one type of female face. And if you read this issue, you'll see that Wonder Woman's face does look exactly like Supergirl's.

This story is the conclusion of the tale that introduced the new Supergirl to the DC Universe. This version is closer to the original Supergirl, who was killed in Crisis on Infinite Earths. Don't ask me to explain the difference between this Supergirl and the one Peter David wrote. My brain would probably melt.

Anyway, the bulk of this issue focuses on Superman fighting Darkseid and ultimately taking him up to the Source Wall and shoving him in it (much like the ending of Genesis). With Darkseid out of the way, Superman decides to gather together the JLA, JSA, Outsiders and Teen Titans to introduce them to the new Supergirl. She gives a brief speech about how she's excited to work with all of them, and everybody is happy.

As usual, Turner draws a great Kid Flash. Although I don't know what's going on with Robin's face in this panel. Anyway, my digital copy of this issue ends with this note: "Dedicated with love and admiration for the memory of Christopher Reeve." Reeve, the actor who played Superman in the first four Superman movies of the '70s and '80s, died a couple of months after this issue came out.



I don't have much to say about this issue. Turner's art is great — for the most part. The story seems OK, I guess. It just doesn't involve this blog at all. And if you're curious, you can always watch the 2010 animated adaptation of this story, the misleadingly titled Superman/Batman: Apocalypse. It doesn't include the final scene with all the other heroes, though.

Next time, we'll return to the Beast Boys and Girls in Teen Titans #14.