“Impossible” – Part Three
Writer: Mark Waid
Artists: Dan Mora, Travis Mercer
Color Artist: Tamra Bonvillain
Letterer: Steve Wands
Review by Bryant Lucas
In this month’s Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #28, the Imp Killer chooses to face the greatest of Earth’s heroes in combat… Jimmy Olsen?!?
The murderous, giant cosmic imp hater from the 6th Dimension has come to Earth to test Earth’s strongest heroes in hopes of finding one worthy of combat. After all of the dust has settled, the villain picks none other than Superman’s Pal, Jimmy Olsen.
Yes, Jimmy Olsen the red-headed photographer from the Daily Planet; a man who has a history of transforming into random things such as the Human Porcupine, Elastic Lad, and Turtle Man… Needless to say the DCU is doomed!
However, our heroes aren’t going down without a fight. Mr. Myxzptlk has graced Jimmy with the powers of a 5th dimensional Imp in preparation for battle. Meanwhile, Superman and Batman traverse multiple higher and lower dimensions as Bat-Mite attempts to bring them back home for the fight.
The Secret Sauce of Superhero Stories
After years of consuming superhero content across various media, I’ve concluded that a successful superhero narrative hinges on three key elements: Heart, Humor, and Spectacle. Audiences generally expect stories to offer emotional resonance, comedy, and bombast. If a writer can tick these boxes, the masses will generally embrace the story. Mark Waid’s a master of this trifecta, and Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #28 is a prime example.
Regarding heart, look no further than Batman’s interaction with Bat-Mite. The two share an endearing moment towards the end of the issue as Batman attempts to dispel Bat-Mite’s misguided notions about the Caped Crusader. Humor is abundant as well, particularly when Jimmy Olsen transforms into a 5th-dimensional imp. Finally, Olsen’s battle with the Imp Killer is brimming with spectacle and shenanigans, delighting even the most cold-hearted readers. Overall, the story is pitch-perfect.
Mora Across the Dimensions
One of the most impressive visual elements of the issue is Dan Mora’s depiction of each dimension. Throughout the book, Batman, Superman, and Bat-Mite journey from the 6th dimension down to the 1st, with each universe boasting its own unique aesthetic.
Tamra Bonvillain also excels in this issue, establishing a distinct color palette for each. Despite the abstract nature of these concepts, both artists succeed in bringing them to life. As usual, the artwork in World’s Finest is superb, even when the story’s content is complex
Conclusion
World’s Finest #28 is another excellent installment in a fantastic arc. Waid’s imagination appears limitless in his ability to generate creative stories. Mora and Bonvillain have the uncanny ability to visualize Waid’s ideas and then bring them to life on paper. The book is just as good as ever.
Final Verdict: Bring on the 5th Dimensional Madness!
Images Courtesy of DC Entertainment
