Comic Book Review: Superman/Batman #22

This current story-arc in Superman/Batman has been very entertaining to me for a number of reasons. First and foremost I'm enjoying the style of both the writer Jeph Loeb and of Ed McGuinness's artwork. Mr. Loeb has brought introduced an interesting band of superheroes from an alternate dimension that closely resembles the Avengers. Seeing Batman and Superman go up against these creatively cloned Avengers has been great entertainment and I still haven't figured out the mystery of who is behind the crimes that the World's Finest Duo has been accused of. So we have great action, a mystery and the last component humor is supplied when the focus is put on Batzarro and Bizarro as these two twisted versions of the title heroes launch their own rescue mission with surprising results.

Ed McGuiness has a cartoony style of artwork, but it is never unrestrained or distractingly exaggerated. With excellent coloring and inking, the style of artwork also doesn't take away from the seriousness of some of the darker moments in the story. The DC Direct merchandising division has just released a series of figures with sculpts based off of McGuiness' work from the first story arc in this series. If I had the space and cash I'd buy them in a heartbeat.

But I digress... Superman/Batman is a great 21st century resumption of the World's Finest comics of yesteryear. Teaming up two of DC's most popular characters in adventures where both of their skills and abilities are tested is great fun to read. Jeph Loeb has been great at reflecting their relationship, personalities and realistically relays how these two very different heroes would work together. It's just a fun comic book, something not found too often in this time in the industry where there seems to be a trend toward seemier, more violent and realistic stories. For someone looking for lighter, action-filled, and more traditional superhero story I recommend this entire series so far. Definitely good back issues to look for at conventions and shops.