“Good Boys”
Writer: Mark Waid
Artist: Fran Galán
Colors: Tamra Bonvillain
Letterer: Steve Wands
Review by: Bryant Lucas
With Batman and Superman missing, Batgirl and Jimmy Olsen team up for a cosmic romp in this month’s Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #34.
In this delightful standalone issue, Batgirl and Jimmy Olsen step into the spotlight, investigating a cosmic conspiracy that ties back to Gotham’s criminal underbelly. With Krypto and Ace loyally by their side, the unlikely duo unravels secrets hinting at greater dangers looming on the horizon, all while searching for the absent Batman and Superman. The story reads exactly as the cover promises – a fun and quirky Silver Age-inspired mashup, blending superhero action with Scooby-Doo-like mystery.
Scripted Smiles
Mark Waid crafts a playful tone that leans into the Silver Age zaniness, blending space-bound mischief with grounded Gotham flair. Focusing on character dynamics, Waid effortlessly blends the comedic awkwardness of Jimmy Olsen with Batgirl’s tactical precision. The banter between the two leads creates enjoyable moments that keep the narrative from feeling stale, even if the overarching plot is light on substance. Waid’s strength lies in his ability to channel nostalgia, and World’s Finest #34 is no exception, feeling like a throwback to the Silver Age era while still anchoring itself in the modern world.
That said, some may find this levity ineffective. While I appreciate the issue’s lighter tone, the script’s plot lacked depth or significant character progression. This low-stakes narrative might not resonate with readers expecting high-tension storytelling, but for those seeking a break from Gotham’s perpetual gloom, this issue offers a refreshing change of pace.
Galán’s Galaxy
Fran Galán’s artwork is bold, colorful, and unapologetically playful. His expressive character designs and cosmic landscapes evoke a nostalgic, Silver Age vibe that complements the issue’s lighthearted tone. The vibrant color palette, courtesy of Tamra Bonvillain, injects life into every panel, reinforcing the energetic, cartoonish atmosphere of the story.
However, the artistic style has proven divisive. Galán experiments with form and color and thereby features exaggerated anatomy and loose linework. Plus Tamra Bonvillain’s watercolor approach adds a dreamlike quality, but its lack of precision occasionally muddles action sequences. This stands in stark contrast to the title’s original artist: the great Dan Mora, whose work is crisp and precise. Nevertheless, Galán’s succeeds in aligning with the story’s whimsical spirit, even if it won’t be to everyone’s taste.
Conclusion
Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #34 is a charming diversion that embraces the sillier side of superhero storytelling. Mark Waid and Fran Galán craft a fun, intermission-style tale that lets supporting characters take center stage, even if the issue doesn’t deliver earth-shattering revelations. The dynamic between Batgirl, Jimmy Olsen, and their canine companions injects levity into the series, making this a delightful, if not essential, read for fans looking for something lighter. While not without its flaws, World’s Finest #34 is a love letter to the playfulness of DC’s past.
Final Verdict: Bust out the Scooby Snacks, as we have a fun little mystery on our hands here.
Images Courtesy of DC Entertainment
