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Superman is one of the most iconic and enduring characters in the world of comics, and there are countless graphic novels that feature the Man of Steel in all his glory. He is the ultimate symbol of hope and justice, and his stories have been captivating readers for generations. From his humble beginnings on the planet Krypton to his adventures in the city of Metropolis, Superman has been at the forefront of the superhero genre for over 80 years. With his incredible abilities, including super strength, speed, and the power of flight, he has saved the world countless times, always standing up for truth, justice, and the American way.

Here are five of the best Superman graphic novels that are must-reads for fans of the character:

"Superman: Red Son" by Mark Millar and Dave Johnson: This graphic novel tells an alternate history of Superman in which he lands in Soviet Russia instead of Smallville, Kansas. The story explores the idea of what would happen if Superman became a tool of the Soviet state and how it would affect the world at large. The story is set in the Cold War era where Superman is being used as a propaganda tool by the Soviet Union and how he deals with the moral dilemma.

"The Death of Superman" by Dan Jurgens, Jerry Ordway, Louise Simonson, and Roger Stern: This graphic novel tells the story of the iconic storyline in which Superman confronts the monstrous Doomsday and sacrifices himself to save the world. It's a powerful and emotional story that explores the impact of Superman's death on the people of Metropolis and the world at large.

"All-Star Superman" by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely: This graphic novel is a loving tribute to the Silver Age version of Superman, and it explores the character's heroic qualities and his timeless appeal. The story is a fun and imaginative take on the Man of Steel, showcasing his strength, wisdom, and compassion.

"Superman: For All Seasons" by Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale: This graphic novel is a character-driven story that explores the different aspects of Superman's life and personality, from his humble beginnings in Smallville to his adventures in Metropolis. The story is a touching and personal look at the character, showcasing his humanity and his determination to do what's right.

"Kingdom Come" by Mark Waid and Alex Ross: This graphic novel is set in the future of the DC Universe and tells the story of a world that has lost its way and the heroes who must come together to save it. The story features a memorable version of an older Superman, who must choose between his idealism and his duty to protect the world.

These are just a few of the many great Superman graphic novels that have been published over the years. Each of these stories offers a different perspective on the character, showcasing his incredible abilities, his unwavering moral compass, and his timeless appeal. Whether you're a lifelong fan of the Man of Steel or just discovering him for the first time, these graphic novels are sure to provide you with hours of entertainment and inspiration

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Alan Moore is widely regarded as one of the greatest comic book writers of all time, and his contributions to the medium have been immense. From his groundbreaking work on characters like Swamp Thing, Batman, and Superman, to his groundbreaking graphic novels like Watchmen and V for Vendetta, Moore has had a huge impact on the world of comics. Here are ten of his most acclaimed graphic novels that every comic book fan should check out:

1. Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons: This is arguably Moore's most famous work and is considered a classic in the comic book industry. The story takes place in an alternate history where superheroes exist, and it explores the consequences of their actions and the psychological toll it takes on them.

2. V for Vendetta by Alan Moore and David Lloyd: This graphic novel is set in a dystopian future where a masked vigilante known as V fights against a fascist government. The story is a powerful commentary on fascism, totalitarianism, and the importance of individuality and freedom.

3. The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen by Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill: This graphic novel is an epic adventure that brings together some of the greatest characters from Victorian-era literature, including Allan Quatermain, Captain Nemo, and the Invisible Man. The story is a thrilling blend of action, mystery, and history.

4. From Hell by Alan Moore and Eddie Campbell: This is a meticulous and haunting investigation of the Jack the Ripper murders, weaving a web of conspiracy and intrigue that stretches from the slums of Whitechapel to the highest levels of power in Victorian England.

5. Swamp Thing by Alan Moore and Steve Bissette: Moore's run on Swamp Thing is considered one of the greatest in the character's history. He transformed the character from a traditional monster comic into a sophisticated meditation on the nature of life, death, and the environment.

6. Promethea by Alan Moore and J.H. Williams III: This is a magical and mystical journey through the Imaginal realms of the mind and the soul, following the adventures of a young woman named Sophie Bangs who becomes the latest incarnation of the mythic warrior Promethea.

7. Batman: The Killing Joke by Alan Moore and Brian Bolland: This graphic novel is a dark and psychological examination of the relationship between Batman and the Joker, exploring the nature of their conflict and the madness that drives the Joker's actions.

8. The Miracles of God by Alan Moore and Mitch Jenkins: This is a series of short stories that explores the supernatural, the miraculous, and the mysterious, touching on themes of faith, wonder, and the unknown.

9. Neonomicon by Alan Moore and Jacen Burrows: This is a horror story that explores the limits of the human mind and the dangers of knowledge and obsession. The story is a continuation of the themes and characters first introduced in Moore's acclaimed series, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.

10. The Courtyard by Alan Moore and Jacen Burrows: This is a noir-style horror story that explores the horrors of addiction and the dark places to which it can lead. The story is a vivid and unsettling look at the dark side of human nature.

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Happy Birthday Stan Lee! 100 years old and still inspiring.

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Solid read for the timing of events that led to Henry Cavill‘s rehiring, and then firing of his role as Superman.

I would emphasize The Rocks attempt to use social media to change the narrative on the performance of Black Adam.Invoking Captain America; The First Avenger, is not accurate.

I won’t digress too much here, but I would add one thing. We have to go back all the way to Christopher Nolan‘s The Dark Knight Trilogy with Christian Bale. After the release of The Dark Knight, studio execs at WB wanted everything to be grim and gritty and realistic.

Superheroes are not that, at least not most of them. You can get away with gritty with certain characters, like Batman, but not all of them. Yes, superheroes can have character flaws. Yes, they can be written more realistic, but the reality is the Snyder directed DC films in many respects were not that fun. If you want to compare the MCU and the DCEU, Marvel Studios make fun films. 

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So The Rock decided it’s best to not have Black Adam in Shazam 1.

Pushed for his own movie to only bomb in the box office and mail the final nail in the coffin of DC Films.

Then turns down cameo in Shazam 2.

His ego is not helping his cause.

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With James Gunn potentially rebooting DCEU as new head of DC Studios, neither Batman would be ideal for the new-ish universe.

If DC Moved to a soft reboot, for example keeping Henry Cavill as Superman, a new Batman closer Cavil’s age makes the most sense as they can grow together and be true partners. Affleck is too old and may be on the fence to continually reprise the role.

I do agree that Matt Reeves and Todd Philips Batman’s and Joker films would be better off separate from DCEU. They are too profitable for WB to pass up.

Let’s introduce the new DCEU Batman down the road.

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I feel as though I’m at an age where my comic heroes are now dying. 2022 is a sad comic creator year. Yes, I know Mr Conroy did not create comics, but his affect on Batman is undeniable.

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Along with this Podcast, follow my blog over at www.alewar.com for the latest on the comic industry.

Coronavirus & the Affect On Local Comic Shops

Wow! I get it. It’s a bit of a click baity headline. However, we’re living in a moment that I never thought we see. 

At nearly 40 years old, I expected to see another war, another Recession/Depression, environmental erosion, but not a pandemic. I really thought we were beyond that with our healthcare system and advanced medicine. Boy I was wrong.

So, here we are. In the middle of a pandemic facing a recession. Not to minimize those who are sick or have passed, I can’t help to think about one of the things I’ve been passionate about. Yup, comics and the comics industry.

I think most people may argue or even take offense as to why I would even think about a “hobby” or niche market against a back drop that’s taking a tole on humanity. My answer to that is simple. People’s lives are being affected, even if their life is a part or central to geek culture. Look, comic book retailers are small business owners. These business are not known to have a high margin. They are on a month to month lifespan. 

Comic book artist (pencilers, colorists, inkers, letterers, etc.) and writers are largely either on contract work or self published. Many of the names that grace the covers on comics may not receive any real benefits. 

In the face of a recession & unemployment, the quarantining of society coupled with the rise of digital distribution and competing entertainment paths (movies, video games, streaming) this may well be the end of the local comic shop and maybe even comics as a whole. 

I know that sounds gloomy, but someone has to document it. Right now, I don’t see a lot of people commenting or writing about it. Maybe, just maybe it’s up to me and whoever wants to join in. 

My intention is to research articles, contact as many people as I can and shine some light on this industry that I love.

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