Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #39 review

The crossover with Justice League Unlimited continues apace, via a fun-filled time-twisting caper. Last month’s World’s Finest Annual ended with original Robin Dick Grayson zapped from a years-ago encounter with the Legion of Doom’s Scarecrow to the present day. He finds himself in the JLA Watchtower, and very confused.

Older Dick, Nightwing, has no memory of this moment, leading Superman and Batman to theorise that time is broken. Cue the walls of reality falling for a moment.

Seconds later, the two Dicks introduce themselves.

And with that, Superman, Batman and Nightwing are despatched to the past, where they start searching for a way home.

And that era’s Batman and Superman have joined Robin in 2025, in Metropolis, where they have a brief encounter with Lois Lane, current Superwoman.

I said this was fun. Writer Mark Waid manages to keep this World’s Finest chapter of his summer mini-event firmly focused on Clark, Dick and Bruce. And Clark, Dick and Bruce. The only Justice Leaguer who shows up is Black Canary, who appears for a single panel. And aside from Scarecrow and and Sinestro, the Legion of Doom are seen only on the credits spread.

Seriously, why isn’t Clayton Henry considered a superstar? His storytelling is superb, his character work is brilliant, the pages are packed with fun but never claustrophobic. He pulls off everything he’s asked to do and makes it look so easy – he’s apparently a natural artist who works very, very hard and he should be treasured. That page of Super-Lois leaving the past World’s Finest trio utterly bemused is a sharp, clever piece of work. And usually I rail against repeated panels but here they’re perfect for the comedic beat. Plus, an emotional scene in the Batcave is pulled off with sensitivity and style.

Tamra Bonvillain colours! Steve Wands letters! What more need I say, these two creators always give their best.

Dan Mora’s cover illustration, executed in colour, is a feast for the eyes, a winner despite featuring The Batman Who Bores and his pals. That’s talent.

World’s Finest #39 is a typical middle-of-event storyline in that it’s not giving us a big opening or amazing close; but neither is it treading water… the story chugs along in a hugely entertaining way, and I love it.