Review: A New Hero Rises In ‘Batman/Superman: World’s Finest’ #7
by Tony Thornley
The World’s Finest have inspired more than their fair share of heroes. Batman/ Superman: World’s Finest #7 introduces one we haven’t seen before, but who follows a familiar pattern.
Mark Waid, Dan Mora, Tamra Bonvillain, and Steve Wands introduce us to a strange visitor from another world.
It’s a familiar story, as a rocket from another world brings a young boy to ours. But this isn’t the story of Kal-El, it’s David Sikela’s. The young man is the only survivor of a parallel Earth, and he’s still reeling from the journey. Superman and Batman’s only choice is to try to mentor him before his strange new powers endanger Earth!
This issue is an interesting one. The plot is pretty standard, reminding me quite a bit of the post-Crisis introduction of Supergirl. Where this issue shines though is in the character moments. We feel for David and Clark both.
David just lost everything and his head is still spinning, while Clark sees another young man who’s facing the same situation he did. Batman is a relatively minor character here, but it’s obvious this is going to build into his role. Regardless, it’s a fascinating character study, even if we know it’s likely to end in tragedy, considering David is around the modern DCU.
Once again though, this issue is propped up by amazing art by both Mora and Bonvillain. Mora’s opening layouts are eye grabbing. He evokes the now-classic opening of All-Star Superman but creates the scene in his own way. He also matches the emotion of the script, especially in smaller ways. Though those panels are the focus point, he doesn’t have to make it grand to show Clark’s heart breaking for David. Bonvillain’s colors are bright, but she’s still able to set the tone of the story.
This issue continued the unknown history of the world’s greatest heroes, and shows that even the greatest heroes can face the most human of tragedies. Where that leads will be a fascinating journey.
Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #7 is available now from DC Comics.
Overview
The secret history of Superman’s sidekick is an emotional untold tale. The plot is straightforward but the script and art point towards this being something special.
