Weird Science DC Comics: SUPERMAN UNLIMITED #4 Review

Plot Analysis

The story opens in Gotham City as a group of criminals attempts to break into a building. Their efforts are interrupted by a monstrous Man-Bat creature. One of the criminals expresses relief that it wasn’t Batman and shoots the Man-Bat, sending it crashing to the streets below.

Meanwhile, Jimmy Olsen is picked up at the airport by a character named Tee-Nah, who is new to Gotham. They discuss the Daily Planet expanding and the theft of the letter “E” from the Daily Planet sign. Jimmy believes the Riddler is responsible. As they drive, the Man-Bat crashes on the hood of the car. He uses his watch to call Superman for help, while he and Tee-Nah take the Man-Bat to Dr. Leslie Tompkins for treatment.

In Metropolis, Superman intervenes in a conflict where a woman, Veronica Vreeland, is thrown from a skyscraper. He quickly realizes she is wearing Kryptonite jewelry, which weakens him. Despite this, he uses his super-breath to cushion her fall and carries her to safety. He notes that Kryptonite has been appearing everywhere since an asteroid struck Earth. .

When Superman arrives in Gotham to answer Jimmy’s signal for help, the Man-Bat wakes up and attacks, biting Superman. Robin arrives on the seen to aid in the fight, but too late to warn everyone that this Man-Bat is not Kurt Langstrom but an assistant with a new Man-Bat strain that’s contagious. Weak from the “kryptonite kiss,” Superman is bitten by the Man-Bat and turns into Superman-Bat.

Shenanigans ensue.

Detailed Review

Writing

The plot is fun and imaginative, introducing a clever cross-city adventure involving multiple heroes and villains. The pacing is effective, with events unfolding quickly to maintain engagement. However, the dialogue frequently falls flat, leaning into overly simplistic and sometimes cheesy lines that detract from the seriousness of the situations. Character interactions, while functional for plot progression, lack depth due to the generic conversations.

Art

The artwork is a definite high point. The line work is clean, detailed, and dynamic, capturing intense action sequences with great energy. Colors are used effectively to enhance mood and atmosphere, making both Gotham’s gritty streets and Metropolis’s gleaming towers feel distinct. The character designs are sharp, and the visual storytelling generally complements the narrative well, conveying emotion and intent without needing excessive exposition. The depiction of the Man-Bat is particularly striking.

Characters

Superman is portrayed as his usual heroic self, always ready to jump into action. His brief weakness due to Kryptonite jewelry adds a touch of vulnerability. Jimmy Olsen and Tee-Nah provide a more grounded perspective, acting as the curious investigators. Robin’s unexpected appearance and specific knowledge of Man-Bat are intriguing, hinting at a deeper understanding of Gotham’s rogues. Man-Bat acts primarily as a rampaging monster, driving much of the conflict.

Positives

The standout aspect of this issue is its imaginative plot, seamlessly blending Superman’s heroics with a classic Gotham City threat. The quick switch between Metropolis and Gotham keeps the story fresh, and the unexpected appearance of Man-Bat adds a layer of unpredictable chaos. The way the Kryptonite is introduced, not as a major plot device, but as a quick challenge for Superman, is a nice touch. It shows a creative approach to familiar elements, making the read genuinely exciting and full of surprises.

Negatives

The primary drawback of this comic is its corny dialogue. Characters often speak in a way that feels unnatural and overly simplistic, pulling the reader out of the story. Lines meant to be witty or impactful often come across as forced. This hinders character development and makes some interactions feel less authentic. The humor attempts often miss the mark.

About The Reviewer: Gabriel Hernandez is the Publisher & EIC of ComicalOpinions.com, a comics review site dedicated to indie, small, and mid-sized publishers.