DC Rebirth Superman Became More Archetypal!

The Superman and His Rebirth! 

5 to 7 min read

The man of steel on the big screen was iconic as Christopher Reeves. There have been many since him, a few before but he is the one that stuck for many of us. Maybe because quite a few artists based their Supermen on the popular Reeves version that embedded itself in our psyche. 

This Superman in the DC Rebirth graphic novel series consists of an Action Comics run as well as one from the Superman comics of that time, and they crossover well. We can see the nod to the classic era Superman and Christppher Reeves and those earlier comics. Both merge into one narrative, well worthy of praise, but, like with all graphic novel collections, there are fillers and duller parts, but I was fascinated by how they smuggled this Superman back! 

This kryptonian is the last person you would eant to seduce your wife or girlfriend, he's got a perfect masculine form, most earth woman fall at his feet and he can fly. You can't pick a fight with him because he's stronger than anything on the planet. In new 52 there was a thing between Wonder woman, and him but that was all retconned and never happened. You see, what makes Superman so good is his high morality, his extremely selfless nature. He is unlikely to cheat on people or harm anyone. The man is a long suffering do-gooder which we need in this world. 

In the evolved story, we are essentiallly viewing the future. A future way ahead in a possible Super-Reeves story. Clark Kent and Louis Lane had lost everything, and went into hiding. After surving on an alien planet during the convergence event they finally arrived on the New 52 version of earth. It was yet another parallel world for them, not tneir own. It already had a Superman of its own! What the holy hell? Isn't that such a juicy premise? Clark remains in the shadows and focuses on his family, but made himself available to assist if needed. 

If you liked Superman as a kid, you really should read these. Admittedly, it can be a confusing story if you dont read the right material first. I recommend the New 52 death of Superman (which is a must read). However, those Iconic red trunks and all that old school hero
get-up eventually return, in the end—a nod to the character's rich historical legacy. It's different with Batman because. . . well, realistically, there has been a glut of underwear free batman movies since 1989, and the comics followed suit. This is a license, an unspoken agreement between creators and fans, a fresh tradition of no bat-pants. On the otherhand, aliens from strange planets might wear their pants on the outside or disguise themselves with glasses. 

Anyway the artwork is a real pleasure from the onset, and it's a enjoyable read, with vivid colors that vitalise the dynamic angles in various action scenes. I love how they capture the sense of height when Superman takes off. Sadly there is more than just the one artist. I read all of them, and found myself wondering how he managed to father a child with Louis Lane on the first place: a strand of this Kryptonians hair can hold a ton, his sneeze can blow over a car, when he flicks a peanut it's as deadly as gun shot, so how could he fornicate with a fragile earth woman without blowing her head off or something? He can't just turn off his super strength. 

The introduction of Mr. Oz was a bit of DC sneakery. There is a lot of that in this series. He was huge a misdirection from the upcoming Watchmen event that overshadowed every Rebirth publication. This mysterious mass manipulator from behind the scenes, was indeed, another great spoiler that has its place in Superman lore. Although he ramped up the intrigue, it did become make it clear that the rebirth of Superman was the sole purpose of the DC Rebirth initiative. 

Of course critics complained about Superman's diluted character, however, in comparison, Green Lantern's New 52 and Rebirth make this Superman look astounding! Traditionally, the man of steel is depicted as a beacon of hope and an unwavering strength who inspires the people. This Clark Kent, (in hiding as Clark White), is plagued by doubt after Convergence and witnessing the death of that worlds version of Superman; insecurity understandebly haunted him after super criminals came for his son, this all shows his human side. Relatability. Ignore the critics it's great! 

If classic Superman is the fully restored optimal version of himself, Clark White is not quite restored for much of the story. He's had to learn why his kryptonian qualities had weakened so much, and so, this gives rise to his family priorities. I tell you, I would love those powers, even though they're weaker than usual. I think he's at Homelanders level.

Bearded Clark the husband, the dad, son and friend is a richer character than the action figure he has been before. Nothing is more ideally suited than family for the Superman; that iconic and unwavering beacon of hope. Great stuff, not quite as good as Batman. 

Wonder Woman vs Aquaman

DC Rebirth: The Aquaman and Wonder woman

4 to 6 min read

I went through a massive phase of reading heroic and epic graphic novels, and when I look at my shelf I can recall every story. The full set of Aquaman, and the six or seven of Wonder woman's DC Rebirth graphic novels I have really hit the spot. I have found much to admire with the works of Dan Abnett, there were, however, some elements that fall somewhat short of the mark.

Rucka's take on Wonder woman was so welcome, a great return to the Amazon's original pre-new 52 character. In this collection, Diana struggles to figure out what is going on in her life, she is troubled, bordering on feeling mentally ill. This was a humbling read and quite relatable. Especially as so many of us will experience poor mental health at some point in our lives. Her mind, as challenged as it was, didn't slow down her protective nature which propelling her story forward. She's still a badass!

As always, heroism, girl power and honour sits at the heart of this run. Her self-discovery was the big sell for me. The spectacular art by Liam Sharp and Nicola Scott illustrates the magnificence and strength of Themyscira and its people. The likes of Wonder woman and Aquaman differ somewhat to The Flash, Cyborg, Lantern, Batman and Superman who have similarity with Hermes, Hephaestus, Hades and Zeus. (Lantern has no hellenic equivalent). However, Wonder woman and Aquaman on the other hand, are linked to these ancient cultures. Wonder woman is thousands of years old; I find this idea has a quality about it, as well as how America has taken her under it's wing. 

Disappointment lingered around the pacing of the Rebirth story, which, I agree, felt slow at times. Personally, her self-discovery warranted more drama, regaining her memory never seemed to convey how much more amazed she should have been; there was no culture shock with themescyra or a tasty climatic resolution, which I craved. The Amazon Princess has limited depth, and her relationship with Steve Trevor was a small offering. 

With Aquaman we see the writing talent of Dan Abnett, the guy who wrote Ravenor for Warhammer 40k. This was a breath of fresh air. Abnett's Arthur Curry/Aquaman, was brilliantly introduced and marketed to the reader. He re-branded those micky-taking tropes we see about Aquaman on-line and presents the reader with a plausible alternative. 

This printed version of Aquaman resembles the film, however, it is better. For instance, we see Arthur struggles to balance his kingly  duties with his loyalty to the surface world. These Rebirth publications are way more political than the Jason Momoa's and Amber Heard alternative.

However, some critics have noted that Aquaman's Rebirth series can feel overly serious at times, but I think Abnett was wise. The writer's exploration of Atlantean politics and culture made the interpersonal relationships more imersive for me, this doesn't work for everyone. As expected. We are all different. 

I suppose, while both Wonder Woman and Aquaman are enjoyable reads, they do have their flaws; many of these comic books do. If we consider that many hit the 7 out of 10 mark on goodreads, it isn't bad going!

 

The Button DC

Batman/The Flash: The Button

5 min read

The Button is a DC Rebirth graphic novel, written by Tom King. The Rebirth series follows the new 52 timeline. I recommend it, straight up. The story follows two alluring archetypes of the comicbook world, Batman and The Flash, who are investigating a strange anomaly; the smiley face Watchmen button, recovered from a wall in the Batcave! 

Two detective types who dress up to fight crime. One is super-human and the other is a resourceful, well disciplined sociopath with a sense of justice. It works! I never liked tje treadmill to be honest but this version of The Flash is the best and the artwork is a belter! Time travel and alternate universes have been done many times, but doing it well is what matters. 

 

We always compare one superhero to another, Batman and The Flash in combat would end terribly quickly—no human human can randomly defend against such speed! On the other hand, who cares? Batman comics are much better and that is where it counts! The Flash and Batman both have fantastic suites, especially in this graphic novel. Fans often like superheroes to be muscular hard men in costumes with a mask, with beautiful females scantily clad with a whip and a bursting cleavage and short skirt. 

Hades and Hermes have been transcoded into modern comic book writing. The annoying thing here is that my favourite character would be extremely hard pressed and would have to prepare way in advance to stand a chance in any altercation with most meta humans, especially The Flash, Superman or Cyborg, but also Aquaman and Wonder woman. It always comes down to the smashy smashy doesn't it? Well, it shouldn't be the case because the stories are more than that these days. This is a detective story gone mad. 

The mutual respect of both men is in their blah blah blah, shared purpose, and a bit of banter! Great. We know and expect the comradery and chemistry, which, I MUST say, is better than that dog awful flash flick where they ruined Keatons Batman. In this, both men bring their own investigative skillset to the story: a rush of comic book enthusiasts ordered this the very micro-second it was officially released purely and only, one hundred percent to see the blue Manhattan chap and the unfolding of the Doomsday Clock story. Ha! It was just a teaser! The watchmen never appeared and everyone was like: 

'Well, 'I'm sure they said we'd see the watchmen crossover, ah well. . . it was a cool run, yeah a really cool run!' 

'But it was a crossover! It featured the badge, that pin, that the comedian wore and we made a few other references, but it was really a Flash and Batman crossover: Bat-bloke Brucie and his speedy mate, Baz. Sorry.' 

'Oh. . . alright then.' 

 

The New 52 Flash

The Flash/Barry Allen has so much potential. 

5 to 7 min read

The New 52 eight graphic novel Flash set, was written by Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato. Of course, it had it's fair share of praise and criticism, but I enjoyed most of them like satisfying relieving dump of an evening—it makes you feel lighter. The art style stands out because of Manapul and Bucellato; it wasn't amazing. 

It reminded me of that bloody television show: It started out promising and I was pulled in, and it began flirting with some comic themes! Honestly, everything really was hunky-dory, until Mark Hamil rocked up, the yellow bloke returned and it gradually degraded into one of the cringiest comic-to-television disappointments I've ever seen! They destroyed Flashpoint; then the Flash movie did exactly the same. Ezra Miller doesn't even slightly resemble comic-book Barry! 

Anyway, the later Manapul & Buccellato storylines fumbled with the ball a bit, but it is no where near as bad as that televised monstrosity! That being said, for some unknown reason, I enjoyed those cheesey bad guys, The Rogues. I shouldn't have, but I did. They are god awful character designs that are so far removed from a criminal you would think they were designed by the most elite pampered person in the world who has never watched the news. Either way, these characters did fit in quite well with the spin off, the Forever Evil story which ran later. 

Yes, some of these storylines are well written and quite detailed. It would've been enjoyable to see more of Barry Allen's crime scene work and street level investigation, this stuff compliments his justice league collegue the Batman. His down-to-earth-level of superhero work is more raw and more believable than the far fetched tomfoolery of psychic gorilla's, weather rod wielding villainy and that type of tongue in cheek narrative you might find yourself forgiving as you read. However, it slightly connects to the dark world of Watchmen. 

You might like Francis Manapuls Flash. As reading goes, I recommend pretending Flashpoint is the first book, read it, and then, I would pretend the New 52 Justice League is the second book. That's before I'd start the first four or five graphic novels of the Manapul New 52 set. Once accustomed with those, I recommend exploring the first few of The Flash Rebirth volumes and conclude with Batman/Flash The Button. 

Barry Allen has his issues and a strange life, but he certainly isn't a very complex character—he's just the readers guide. Yeah, not just a protagonist. Not many Flash publications have immersed me into the main characters rich history nor put me into his life. The books have, on the other hand, taken me into his situations and conflict, I reinforce what I said: The Flash feels like a guide and pretty level headed, shallow, ready salted person I cannot resonate with much. 

If we ignore the shortcomings, he is great in the comic book Justice League. However, The New 52, Flash graphic novel set is a series that has its ups and downs. The concept of a speedster is a tricky one to wrestle with, given how unrealistically powerful this meta human must be. 

With him on the team they should never lose a fight—he's faster than light. I have to ignore the physics if I want to enjoy Flash stories. This is when we see writers act like apologetics by dulling down superhero powers to more acceptable. 

While the over all idea of The Flash is definitely not perfect, there's no denying that he's also a character worth developing properly in his own right. Batman had a scowling Michael Keaton, the brutish Ben Atflick and the husky voiced Christian Bale; all brilliant in their own way!

Barry Allen in print, is blonde haired and blue eyed, an athletic looking man. He's quite level headed given his forensic science interests and he works as a CSI to vindicate his father. Ezra Miller and John Wesley Shipp didn't come close to The Barry Allen found in our graphic novels, except, maybe for Grant Gustin. What do you think? 

Watchmen Noir

Watchmen in Black and White... 

7 to 9 min read

It's about time I wrote a little something about a graphic novel that made waves, not only in my life, but also in the entire comic book world back in the day. Obviously it's Watchmen. I built that up pointlessly didn't I? If you're not familiar with the graphic novel or the comic book genre, here's a brief overview: Watchmen was written by a wizard called Alan Moore, the legend behind swamp thing, V for Vendetta and From Hell, a beautiful read! It was illustrated by Dave Gibbons, who did Rogue Trooper and The Originals. Watchmen was originally published in 1986 and has since become iconic. 

When I was a child Watchmen would have been way too advanced for me. They looked the part, but I would never have considered them as 'proper superheroes' like Spiderman or Captain America. It's a pleasure to digest a mature themed comic book world. Trying to scrape some sort of enjoyment from modern comics when you reach your forties is like thumbing across into the meaty bits only to find it's all soft. You might try to convince yourself it's working, by appeals to the nostalgia of youth, but that never compensates for the intelligent stimulating goodies you need!

Just in case you did not know, be warned, the Watchmen universe is cynical, dark, political and very gritty. The setting of a story following a group of retired group of superheroes, whose interests unite them once again to investigate the murder of one of their own! Along the way, they uncover a conspiracy that threatens to destroy the world as they know it. A great premise and it flows well.

Watchmen Noir is only one of the many versions of Watchmen graphic novels on the market. 'Before Watchmen' came out, a prequel set of comics that telling the origins and backstories—the reviews weren't great. I never bothered to collect them. In general many spin-offs detract from a very well made original story. Sad. 

Watchmen Noir is a lovely hardcover, black and white edition, that does retain the very noir detective feel it wants. The story was a pleasure to initially read. However, without colour, I got confused once or twice with minor visual references to the plot. Watchmen is a page turner, the intrigue saturates its many characters; combine that with the heavy hardcover format, it brings substance everytime you hold its hard-edged spine.

The film version closely recreates numerous iconic images and panels from the graphic novel, but it goes its own way with other areas such as its different ending, slightly different characters but the graphic novel holds it's own with that dark atmosphere and feeling of threat. 

I was so excited with the big HBO Watchmen Show they announced years ago. All the right words like 'critically acclaimed' were said so I watched it and I was totally confused. It was supposed to be a sequel to the original comic, no, I can't accept nothing but the doomsday clock as the sequal to the original comic. As always, the comic was a hundred times better! As I said: a spin-off that detracted. 

Doomsday clock was the cherry on this cake. It was great to see the Flash, Batman and Superman, part of something with the likes of Dr Manhattan, Rorschach and Ozymandias. I am biased, a fan. 

If you want start enjoying graphic novels then I do – as you might have noticed – recommend reading Watchmen. It's a decent starting point, if you like it, try DC rebirth or DC Black Label. If that's not your thing, explore non-superhero stuff like Preacher, Transmetropolitan, Maus or Sandman. 

 

Is The Supernatural Real? Are Spirits Around Us?

Invisible Spirit and the Empty Room

Have Ghosts Stopped Wearing Sheets Now? 

6 min read 

What’s the difference between an invisible, intelligent, non-material, non-verifiable presence, and an invisible, intelligent, non-material, non-verifiable presence that has decided to pop out for a bit of fresh air? Nothing, they are indistinguishable to us. 

Identify the Problem

There could be something beyond our human scope, but no human could detect this type of presence anyway, right? People do aimlessly debate the claims of such invisible, undetectable, non-material presences until the cows come home—there’s no proof, they’re undetectable! Undetectable, indeed; until the gifted or the ordained claim to see the presences, which nullifies what the spirit is supposed to be! Any analytical atheist would agree, that the simplest explanation is most likely the case, as with Ockham's Razor. Why bother trying to communicate with an empty room?

Taking The Jungian Perspective 

What authority has set the invisible, intelligent, non-material, non-verifiable presence, 'breed standard'? The answer needs no mentioning. This spirit in the room resonates with Carl Jungs archetypes of both the Shadow and the Anima/Animus, the latter emerges in dreams, visions, or inner experiences influencing perceptions, taking on an almost 'other' quality​. Similarly, the Shadow is repressed within all of us, we have our own. A dark influencing force, almost ghostly or paranormal that also provides that sense of 'other' that we can't fully explain. Now, we should consider what paranormal activity everyday people have claimed to have experienced.

Anecdotal Reports

People have been experiencing strange presences, ghosts, elves and poltergeists (that we often call the paranormal now) since the dawn of history—in doing so, suggests these presences cannot be invisible, intelligent, non-material, and non-verifiable. Only a week ago, my boy said the rocking chair started rocking by itself, so he filmed it. The kitchen is a tad odd during the evenings; we have no idea why things have unnaturaly fallen off the kitchen surface or what makes noise in there.

The Mechanics Behind The Moans

In other parts of the house, family members have seen strange shadow people, and shadow insects, that bear no religious or spiritual significance to anything. As well as that, we’ve noticed unexpected smells of tobacco and aftershave—we don’t smoke. I won't get into the ghost stories told by the extended family about their houses. Many of us tend to rationalise a creepy incident away as an over active imagination or we ignore it, because these things don't follow logic. My point is; any moaning ghost will need a voice box to moan, just as our rocking chair poltergeist will require both energy and matter to rock it—the breed standard is all wrong!

Science and the Paranormal 

The absence of scientific evidence for a spirit signifies very little; every culture across the globe has its own criteria for what their spooks are supposed to be, a djinn, a fetch, a banshee, poltergeist or a dybbuk—Japan and China have countless types of ghosts!

Phenomenal Relativity of Interpretation

When dogmas emerge, people start to expect their spirits to behave like a class X, Y or Z, but the paranormal isn’t like that, it’s defined as unexpected, not predictable or explainable. There is no stream of constant paranormal evidence that science can readily study. You can’t do it. These weird happenings aren't timetabled like the number nine bus. It's similar to ball lightning or England winning the world cup.

How We See Things

Stephen Hawking could not see his black holes; a problem with detectability existed for him. Perhaps a similar situation exists with spirits; you see, in the end, Hawking saw the gravitational effect of a black hole moving the cosmic bodies that surrounded them, maybe occultists do something similar with presences? Like the cosmic community, many people have been affected by unseen forces of a paranormal kind.

Any discrepancies between an invisible, intelligent, non-material, non-verifiable presence, and one that has buggered off somewhere, comes down to choice; self trickery, possibly a deliberate decision to join a collective of believers. 

To Wrap it Up

Now, on the other hand: what is the difference between an invisible, intelligent, non-material, non-verifiable presence, and a direct experience of an unexplained phenomena shared with a co-worker? Witness accounts often involve seeing, hearing, smelling, as well as feeling presences or ghosts, a physicalism, which not always invisible, can they hold a substantial presence. The spirit in the room is the most compelling character of all! 

The New 52 Batman