REVIEW: ‘Batman/Superman: World’s Finest’ Issue 38

Batman/Superman World’s Finest Issue 38 is published by DC Comics. Written by Mark Waid, art by Clayton Henry, colors by Tamra Bonvillain, and letters by Steve Wands.

This starts the “We Are Yesterday” crossover between Batman/Superman: World’s Finest and Justice League Unlimited. Gorilla Grodd and Gorilla City declare war on the human race, causing Batman and Superman to enlist the help of the Flash.

The start of a new crossover begins like a reset. The world that Batman/Superman World’s Finest Issue 38 takes place in an earlier time, so this is the first time many of the heroes involved have encountered the huge telepathic gorilla. As a first chapter in a crossover, the comic is very self-contained, making it easy for newcomers to step into. The opening is bold and loud, forcing the heroes into action to protect one of their own.

The pace is constantly moving forward and filled with action. The plot has a classic feel, with minimal baggage or expectation to know any history. Yet, it is connected to the flagship title of Justice League Unlimited, which is only made clear by the final page. The battles are exciting and enthralling, with a concept that feels perfectly at home within a classic superhero setting.

The characters all feel genuine and natural. The alliances between the key members of the DC Universe are so strong, especially when written by Waid. He understands the heroes’ personalities and how they respond to each other. It’s not just Clark and Bruce inside Batman/Superman World’s Finest Issue 38; the Flash and Hal Jordan are also present. Flash is a key figure, considering Grodd is his villain. There is a terrific sense of both humor and drama. Grodd is a menacing, melodramatic villain who is always terrifying. He is powerful and has the ability to cause pain and terror. Even a figure like Superman is seen struggling against Grodd’s master plan.

The art is a phenomenal bundle of fun, capturing all of the best elements of the situation. The gorillas look big and scary, with snarling faces and a sense of danger even against elite superheroes. The fight scenes are full of movement, strength, and superpowers. The physicality of this issue is terrific, mainly due to Henry’s variation in line weights.

They are bold and thick around the edges of the characters. This bulks out their muscles and solidifies them. But they are small and delicate around the faces of figures, brilliant for comedic reactions and pinpoint accuracy. The majesty of Gorilla City and the war tearing it apart are also captured in fantastic detail. Henry knows when to add lines and when to allow for space.

The colors are incredible, full of vibrancy and clarity. The heroes’ costumes are abundant in red, blue, and yellow. Around them is a lot of plush green, representing the luscious nature that is being turned into a turf war. The lettering is clear and easy to read.

Batman/Superman World’s Finest Issue 38 is a fun opening to the crossover. The classic feel of the comic instantly ignites the energy and makes it effortless to start reading. It’s an old-school battle that has lasting ramifications in the present day. The World’s Finest world has always felt so separate from the central universe, but Mark Waid opens up a direct connection that will create a partnership within DC’s two biggest books.

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest Issue 38 is available where comics are sold.