Superman: What's So Funny About Truth, Justice and the American Way?

[@aracus]

The irony of the animated version of this comic coming out only a few months before man of steel can never be overstated

[@WannabeWryter]

Oh that's delightful and delicious.

[@ijl007]

WOW I never realized that. That's brilliant and wonderful🤣🤣🤣

[@alexsilva28]

Huh I guess someone at DC saw an early screening of MoS and decided to put something out to counter balance it

[@Powerhaus88]

@@alexsilva28 No point really, Man of Steel is beautiful and perfect, minus the romance, Amy Adams is not my first pick for Lois, and the romance wasn't necessary, but other than that, MoS is perfection, especially compared to every single Marvel movie. It's the story of a Kryptonian baby sent to our, very real and grounded world, and what that would look like, not goofy like Christopher Reeve's, or soapy like Smallville.

[@nick_j3831]

@@Powerhaus88 no its trash and zack snyder has no idea how to make charectors how they are

[@Just_Some_Guy_with_a_Mustache]

*Batman (feet up, sipping on tea, raises it to screen):* "Nicely played, Clark." _Five minutes earlier..._ *Batman:* _running around, rummaging through every drawer and safe in the Batcave while swearing like a sailor_

[@SpiralSine6]

*oh god oh god oh god it’s happening*

[@alexsilva28]

@@SpiralSine6 LMAO it would've been great to see a panel of Clark calling Bruce before the final confrontation and being like "Ok so I'm about to do this bit... "

[@Maskedmenace8267]

Bruce was fr saying: oh boy oh boy oh boy its time

[@thread6971]

It's insane how Superman is simultaneously both the most overrated and underrated Superhero of all time. Too many people just see the surface of the character. He's so much more and there's a reason he stands the test of time even if most comic "fans" hate him because "Batman is cool and he beats superman." It's annoying as hell and more people should be reading comics like this, birthright and allstar Superman. Thank you for doing this issue cause it's still super important.

[@greyborg3846]

I actually do love Superman for his character and for everything that he stands for. But, I generally find him to be largely boring as a hero because he is so powerful that he makes most challenges nearly obsolete.

[@joshuanelson6795]

Which is funny because Batman actually has nothing but respect and admiration for Superman. Bruce Wayne has even admitted that Clark Kent is a better man than him.

[@thedukeofchutney468]

In my (admittedly unpopular) opinion Superman is a far cooler and more complex character than Batman.

[@someonewhocommentsonyoutub3779]

@@thedukeofchutney468 I used to prefer Batman but as I've gotten older I've been getting a lot more mileage out of characters who just do good because they're good people and it's the right thing to do, it's pretty refreshing after all the morally gray anti heroes we've gotten over the past 30 years.

[@umbrellaphantom]

I think when it comes to DC they make the best graphic novels, like superman for all seasons, superman secret identity are examples of this.

[@jermox]

The title is a reference to a song called "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love And Understanding". It is still a random reference though.

[@Ohmargod]

Great cover from A Perfect Circle!

[@karl_alan]

@@Ohmargod Agreed! As soon as I saw the title, I thought of their cover.

[@jermox]

I think I always preferred Nick Lowe's version.

[@breakuprecordsandtapes]

@@pauljohnson271 yes but written by nick lowe! One of my musical heroes :)

[@toddklein77]

thank you. came here to say the same.

[@comicpop]

There WAS a new attempt to do this recently in the Black Label series Superman vs Lobo! I forgot because I hate it so much.

[@joeclarke7982]

Ya but....we don't need to talk about that book

[@Martin_TheCollector]

😁

[@mickeyveach3612]

Bought the first issue because i liked the cover design but the writing was a bit odd.

[@forgetit9421]

People nowadays think that "being a flawed realistic human" means "being a asshole or having questionable morality". This mentality is really present in, for example, the ultimates. Super man shows that despite being an alien, he's more human than many of us, cause despite his flaws, he sticks up to his good morals, which is extremely inspiring.

[@warlord8106]

what flaws does superman have?

[@forgetit9421]

@@warlord8106 His flaws shine more while he is clark kent, he is timid, a bit clumsy and gullible. He doesn't even really like being the most powerful creature in earth cause he feels less human because of them and that affects him. While being superman, he has more power weaknesses than just magic and kryptonite, and many attributes from clark are still present in super. He doesn't have "asshole faults" like selfishness of course(good parenting does wonders) and that's part of his character

[@abrashio]

@@warlord8106 some would say that it is his belief that everyone has good in them and can change for the better. For the most part that is 98% of his rogues gallery are redeemable with only those who are literally evil incarnate being the exceptions. It is one of the reasons he his so against killing as it robs the killed the chance of redemption. Which can actually happen if a writer decides to do so. Also there is the trust he puts in people to do good. He trusts his friends like Diana and Bruce to always do the right thing which is why he can be blind sided by them.

[@mr.goblin6039]

That Back to the Future 3 rant was the funniest thing I’ve heard in a long time. This whole episode was good, but that part just sent my sides into orbit. Also, Ending Battle, the sequel to this, is a HUGE middle finger to every “what if Superman went evil cause Lois died” story out there. Every time someone says “he only cares about Lois”, I bring up that story and go “read this, and stop thinking Superman is some detached weirdo who’s only connection to humanity and sanity is his gf dying”.

[@The_Blue_Otaku]

Yeah dude that Back to the Future 3 rant made me laughing my ass off

[@granaff]

Yeah, I'm glad they didn't cut it out.

[@alexsilva28]

Another iconic Sal Rant ™️

[@halfmettlealchemist8076]

I love this story because it’s basically a gigantic middle finger to the “evil Superman” trope. Why doesn’t Superman kill or become corrupt, when he could easily do so with all of his godlike power? Because for all that power, he’s still human at his core, and that humanity shines through in his idealism and kindness. Superman isn’t a god or a paragon for us to worship - he’s a symbol of everything humanity can and should be. A symbol of hope. Edit: Say what you will about Jon as Superman, the current PKJ Action Comics run where Clark Kent is on Warworld is legitimately one of the best Superman stories in years. I’d love for the ComicPop guys to talk about it once it’s finished.

[@datguyking6000]

So a human can't be corrupt? Humans are the most flawed beings. 🤔

[@Just_Some_Guy_with_a_Mustache]

@@datguyking6000 Yes, but don't take that sentiment in a cynical way like so many works tend to do. At least not with Superman. If that's your thesis, you might as well do that with another character. Or have it in a much more nuanced way for the story that goes beyond JUST that as a message.

[@Peecamarke]

@@datguyking6000 I agree, there’s a certain beauty with imperfection and that doesn’t mean a hero has to be a evil tyrant either just not super perfect incorruptible but I’m assuming the goal of Superman’s creation was to be super perfect incorruptible just wish if that was the case he wasn’t the only one.

[@halfmettlealchemist8076]

@@datguyking6000 That’s not what I’m saying. Humans are flawed, yes, and in worst-case scenarios they can even be truly evil. But Superman is meant to show us an alternative: that despite our flaws, despite our capacity for bad, there is an equal (or perhaps even greater) capacity for good. The point of Superman is that it’s ok to not be perfect - you don’t have to be perfect to be worthy of kindness, or to display kindness in turn.

[@NihilisticBallman]

I always thought the reason why Superman wasn't evil is because he wasn't human. If a human had Supermans powers, they would be evil, but Superman isn't human, he's better than that.

[@That1DogGuy]

Superman vs The Elite is actually the story that finally changed my mind on Superman and made me love and respect him. Finally realized he is so much more than I had originally thought.

[@alexsilva28]

I always liked the character but always preferred Batman cuz he's "cooler and badass" but that movie made me actually get Superman as a concept. Brilliant film

[@thedukeofchutney468]

I’m so glad you guys are doing a Superman story. Clark doesn’t get nearly enough respect or coverage these days.

[@ณชพลพูลทอง-ฐ3ช]

⁠@@joshuataylor7443I feel the same way.

[@MrPink-qf1xi]

When I watched Superman vs. The Elite and read Kingdom Come, I finally understood Superman and accepted his character for what it is. I believe no matter the times we live in, Truth, Justice and the American Way(I am from Turkey btw and don't care about the phrase American Way, I get what it means.) must be in character of Superman, because those values are universal and always relevant. I hate to be that guy but that is why I fucking hate Snyder's version of DC universe.

[@AlSidre]

I think a while ago it changed to Truth Justice and a Better Tomorrow and Clark's son changed it again. Oh ya I hate Snyder's version of Sups, he s just is out of character. someone completely missed what makes superman great. Greetings from a Germany Turkey s a beautiful country and I would love to visit again. Ps: Someone please give John Kent some decent story lines

[@MrPink-qf1xi]

@@AlSidre Thank you for your kind words friend, I hope you will have great time when you hopefully get to visit our country again

[@alexsilva28]

Amen. I watched Sups vs The Elite first and that just made me go "Oh damn, I get it now... " and would be my go to piece of media to convert any Superman deniers

[@rayvenkman2087]

Superman is like Bret Hart. You don’t truly appreciate the finer aspects til you actually pay attention to him and his body of work.

[@jesserandle3519]

So Sal roasting Doc Brown for several minutes had me crying laughing. I love it when he just disagrees so heavily on something.

[@undead923]

Grant basically agreed to write the Superman book just to make sure Didio DOESN’T DESTROY Superman. That is amazing.

[@halfmettlealchemist8076]

God bless Grant Morrison. I can’t blame them for bowing out of the mainstream comics industry, but I’ll always have immense respect for their work and their adoration for the superhero genre.

[@rayvenkman2087]

Didio still destroyed Superman. Bendis is coming!

[@Tamaki742]

​@@rayvenkman2087 And there he came.

[@andrepaul3483]

Superman Vs The Elite is a god tier film. Easily my fav Superman film. Also,George Newbern NAILED the ICONIC speech that originated from this comic.

[@YaBoiChipsAhoy]

I think Up In The Sky is the closest we've got to a new "here's why Superman is relevant story" because it has the *perfect* answer to all the dissenting, condescending questions: Because he's Superman. "Why doesn't he kill?" Because he's Superman. "Why is he a good person?" Because he's Superman. The chapter where Clark Kent splits from Superman almost feels like a take down of Injustice Superman where hes basically making Utilitarian arguments, but Clark still has the very important moral high ground of "while you're maximizing the number of people you save, that one little girl is still in danger, waiting for you to save her".

[@vfxninja5503]

I like how all the arguments for Superman to become a killer are actually arguments for Batman to become a killer. -"He'll just escape again and kill more!" -Joker -Zsasz

[@comicscinemaothermedia9247]

Yeah, the Movie definitely corrected that with the reoccurring threat of Atomic Skull.

[@TheBroken_King]

This story, and when superman fought Darkseid in Superman: TAS are two of my favorite stories and ones I use to explain why Superman is my favorite. He does the best he can to help those he can, but he still wants ppl to be people. He believes that people can do better without being forced, and the amount of restraint he shows everyday is insane. Its less about all he can do, and more about how much he doesn't.

[@wdcain1]

I cannot wrap my head around the idea that Superman is too outdated or far-fetched. He's a good person raised by kind people who taught him to do right by others. What is so difficult about this?!?!

[@halfmettlealchemist8076]

But dude, kindness is, like, totally lame and stuff, he should laser people’s faces off instead because that’s what the kids want, right??? (I’d put /s here but I’m not a fucking Redditor)

[@skankalank2000]

It's honestly because of Frank Miller's Batman. After the dark knight series all comics had to be "dark and gritty and edgy" So when you have Superman, who is none of those things, casual movie only comic book perusers think he's less cool

[@ComicCrossing]

Youre talking to a generation raised on Breaking Bad or Game of Thrones where being a good guy gets you killed. People want their expectations subverted. They dont want to be told that being a good person is a good thing. They want to be shown that people are as flawed as they are.

[@halfmettlealchemist8076]

@@skankalank2000 I’d argue Watchmen was the real point of divergence. Which makes it even worse, because Watchmen was supposed to be a deconstruction of the mainstream comic industry, until it got so popular that it _became_ part of the mainstream, at which point all of the other comic publishers decided to deconstruct their own comics to compete with Watchmen. Except that didn’t work, because the stuff they did was exactly the kind of thing Watchmen was critiquing. It’s basically the equivalent of a stuntman doing something absurdly dangerous and then saying, “Don’t try this at home,” and then everyone tried it at home.

[@alexandredesbiens-brassard9109]

@@halfmettlealchemist8076 Comic-book historian usually credit the shift to darker stories, aka the beginning of the "Iron Age", to both Watchmen and Dark Knight Returns, in equal parts. It's really the combination of both that made it possible for the push to happen, with the help of some precursors like Squadron Supreme and some other non-comic works like Terminator, Die Hard, and the Burton's Batman movie.

[@ridge825]

We need Superman more than ever

[@thedukeofchutney468]

Yeah, we need someone to stand for truth, justice, and the American way; cause Uncle Sam sure as heck ain’t doin it!

[@NihilisticBallman]

@@thedukeofchutney468 He never did.

[@Grievousish]

The animated adaptation of this is definitely my all time favorite Superman movie

[@Adam_K14]

whats the flim called ...please

[@Grievousish]

@@Adam_K14 Superman vs The Elite

[@VerticlSpoon]

I might rewatch it eventually

[@ThatKevinBravo]

I think Morrison mentioned once that the true power of superman is his kindness and his belief on second chances

[@rayvenkman2087]

In the DC Tarots, he’s represented as the Hierophant. A teacher/mentor and a follower of the beliefs.

[@GambeTama]

@@rayvenkman2087 Which version of the deck was this? The only one I could find shows Superman as the representative of the Sun arcana (though admittedly that might be even more fitting, if not also very pun-y)

[@rayvenkman2087]

@@GambeTama Might be the newer ones. The ones actually realised as a Tarot set.

[@DazzlingMrScratch]

This would literally be a perfect comic to adapt into a live action movie.

[@jacobramos3473]

Isn't it an animated movie?

[@Beliasa01]

Aye, its Superman vs. The Elite iirc?

[@revolutionarydragon1123]

Or it can be a season of Superman and Lois

[@Yojimbo16]

@@revolutionarydragon1123 No it was an animated movie.

[@revolutionarydragon1123]

@@Yojimbo16 what

[@geoffpursinger938]

I freaking love that this story about Manchester Black includes a 5 minute tangent about Back to the Future III.

[@NovastarDoughnut]

When I watched MOS and BVS I was reminded of this book and what it was saying. When the director litterally said "you're living in a f***ing dream world" on heroes killing in his films, I was reminded even further. Such a poignant story. Good stuff

[@davidmeloche3563]

Superman II.

[@DomovoiJr]

This title is exactly the way I describe this book to others and why I always recommend it so strongly. Thanks for doing it guys!

[@julianemmaus9381]

"Your DAD is not that good!" Fucking savage. Give me that shirt.

[@nickolasramirez]

Love the conclusion about Superman being the one superhero, if there could only be one, to not compromise and that’s what makes him special. I think people who defend the end of Man of Steel don’t see that. If SUPERMAN has to make excuses and compromise his ideals sometimes, that just gives people who look up to him the leeway to do the same. People who look up to him can say, “Well Superman has to make compromises so I can compromise sometimes too.” When really it should be, “Superman would stick by what he knows is right no matter what. So I need to find the strength within myself to do what I know is right too.”

[@friedfrog5447]

That's just ignoring that sometimes there is no way or right answer and things are sometimes more complicated. Man of Steel was definitely going in the right direction, but the writing could have been better.

[@nickolasramirez]

​@@friedfrog5447 Admitting that Superman has to make compromises is admitting that optimism is futile. Some people are too cynical to see the beauty of what Superman represents on a metatextual level.

[@friedfrog5447]

@@nickolasramirez So you're saying that all those people and loved ones who are in danger every week because of Atomic Skull killing people and rampaging are cynical because they think its necessary for Superman to use lethal force? *Admitting that Superman has to make compromises is admitting that optimism is futile.* So if Man of Steel had to kill Zod in order to save the planet and billions of innocents, that, to you, means optimism is futile? Captain America has killed, and he's still a symbol of optimism, so have many heroes. *Some people are too cynical to see the beauty of what Superman represents on a metatextual level.* What he represents is someone who ignores the complexity of certain situations and just keeps preaching about 'being better' and "believing". He cares about the glory and status of being called a hero and a symbol first, protecting life is secondary. He doesn't prove the Elite wrong or present any solution, he doesn't engage with *why* people are fed up and believe his way doesn't work. All he does is scare the world into agreeing with him and beat up the Elite, proving his might makes right. It's not a story that presents the other side honestly, it's purely an attack piece from Kelly to people who liked the Authority. If the Elite were portrayed as good people who just felt sometimes killing is necessary, instead of cheap strawmen just to prop up superman, Superman's whole argument would just fall apart.

[@carlosasepulveda8270]

the fact that right now there are no major movie projects for superman and he only got a non voice cameo in peacemaker should tell how important he is in the eyes of warner/dc

[@codystork3008]

Add to that the superman cameo in Shazam and you definetly have a point.

[@mitchellregan21]

Thankfully they're making a Superman movie now.

[@eduardoflores1503]

Suprised Sal didn't mention when Manchester Black tells Supes he's living in a dream world (which leads to the dream speech) and how Zack Snyder unironiclly quoted him saying the same words.

[@daraghokane4236]

Zack snyder should have made superma nvs the elite live action movie he would have got Blacks personality down. Imagine flyping it the elite are the protaganists and superman is the moral busybody that is like don't kill people or say rude words

[@eduardoflores1503]

@@daraghokane4236 god no.

[@mcstrategist]

One nailed character does not make a movie.

[@Kekkersboy]

Zach Snyder: " We'll kill Lois and show how that's what will turn Superman evil. Comics : I don't think so.

[@juelgrace]

Is that what happened? I always thought it was that he was at his most lowest when Lois died and he used that to infect him with the anti life equation.

[@Kekkersboy]

@@juelgrace well that and finding out Bruce got Lois pregnant. Was in Snyder's script

[@Zynirel]

Yoooo, what's up, I'm in comic explain discord server with you

[@Kekkersboy]

@@Zynirel Heh good. Didn't expect a response to a 2 yea old post

[@Zynirel]

@@Kekkersboy can you guess who I am tho?

[@samwise419]

That Doc Brown tangent was legendary

[@joshheralal8758]

I fucking love this story! Shows why traditional superheroes and morality will always be the best.

[@Depthcharge2030]

The animated adaptation of this probably has to be my favorite Superman film

[@ItsTheFizz]

It's amazing how many people don't grasp that Superman's greatest superpower is restraint

[@batfreeze56]

One of the best episodes of Back Issues. Can't wait to rewatch this one like, a million times. Thanks for being the uncompromising optimists of comic book KZbin.

[@saracohle]

The Back to the Future conversation is gold.

[@godzy323]

We totally agree that we need like, once every few years...a Superman book that handles the state of the current world. It really helps give me some hope that the world will find a better way aside from being depressed with the constant state of horrible incidents we constantly hear.

[@WannabeWryter]

Son of Kal-el is trying and failing, is lacks alot of of things. I think we need a story now that show that you can still use the iconic paragons of the Justice League that have existed for decades today while at the same time embracing new ideas and characters of the future instead of replacing them with Legacy OCs and Dark crisis's. Have the established characters help and mentor the young heroes who are completely different OC from the JL but still want to be heroes.

[@spacepenguins8939]

@@WannabeWryter I think the current action run is close to some of that, it’s about Clark sticking to hope and showing how it’ll always triumph over tyranny (it’s certainly better than Son of kal-el)

[@jonsmith9838]

couldn't superman just saying "Even if your for killing bad guys, if you cant do it with out killing tons of innocent people, you suck at this". I mean you don't see Punisher shootings 100's randos to kill his bad guys

[@Eques_Umbra]

Or better yet, "Can you do it without killing *any* innocents?"

[@natedog2821]

Like all Superman fans, I love this story. Glad you’re finally covering it

[@tdtellem]

50:18 The story they're referencing is called The Ending Battle. I think it's still available in trades. Pretty good story actually. Manchester pretty much sends Superman through a gauntlet of his worst enemies and circumstances. The first part where Superman starts to solo the bad guys in the end is one of my favorite moments in Superman comics.

[@kittomaddrell8990]

Hey so I've never been one to comment on KZbin videos, is a bit anxiety inducing. Only did it once to support a friend's channel. But I wanted to say I've been watching your stuff for a year now and love it. And it was really cool to hear you mention Grant Morrison's pronouns and "I'm working on it" - probably seems like a small thing, but meant a lot. You guys are great! You got me back into comics and writing my own now.

[@majorsmind]

35:06 Best. In-episode. Rant. Ever.

[@cactusblack5993]

We need this story in print again. Been searching for years. What a missed opportunity by DC not putting this in Superman 80th anniversary hardcover.

[@catlawyerwilldefendfortrea6038]

I love that in the movie he talks to his dad. It’s the antithesis to the Pa Kent scene in Man of steel

[@kosta1613]

I feel like doomsday clock kind of has the same messaging as this. I dunno if it does it as well though. Like instead of the Elite and image comics, the watchmen universe and the kind of grim dark tone that comics take is what Superman and hope pushes against in doomsday clock

[@allendrake6960]

I got the same impression from Doomsday Clock too! It felt especially relevant given that New 52 made some changes that felt very "overly gritty 90s" to me. Doomsday Clock wasn't perfect by any means, and I personally dislike the concept of Watchmen and DC explicitly crossing over in general (Manhattan not being the only superhero fundamentally changes the entire premise of the character, and expanding his powerset to absurd levels doesn't help with that either), *but,* I do think that the concept they went with for it was genuinely interesting and seemed to have the level of "meta" to the event that I love.

[@zaphero5518]

Oh I just realized, I think we *did* get a modern comic take on why Superman doesn't do this 3 years ago! Even down to it terrifying people and becoming fascist "I have all the power and all the judgement to make the world better than it deserves because you wouldn't change without it". It was called *Tales from the Dark Multiverse: The Death of Superman*

[@bigboychris446]

LOVE this storyline. Wish we could see it in Live Action someday.

[@rhysholdaway]

This channel got me back into reading comics and graphic novels after a long hiatus. I'm looking forward to Sal giving us "the gift" of Hercules Prince of Power. 😁

[@ToonGal12]

That whole rant about Back to the Future is why I love this channel. XD Also, congrats to you guys on 100k subscribers! You deserve every one.

[@gregmckeon745]

Recent “why Superman matters” story: SUPERMAN: UP IN THE SKY

[@cubencis]

I watched the Superman vs Elite film which in thought was very good. Tons of bells going off when you said they are based on the Authority

[@DCPatrol]

The title is a reference to an Elvis Costello Song; "What's so funny about Peace Love and Understanding". Great song. Fun episode!

[@cmmosher8035]

Its actually written by Nick Lowe and the Costello version is one the all-time best cover songs.

[@TevyaSmolka]

I love Superman vs the elite such a amazing story and personally in my opinion this story proves Superman is relevant and we need him now more then ever in my book.

[@eamonndeane587]

And have less people hyping up Jackasses like Manchester Black as the kind of Hero the world needs.

[@LtDragonfruit]

I can just imagine Lex Luther in the white House shitting bricks when he sees supes let go, cuz ye realises he'll never be able to stop that

[@kazual6149]

Amazing choice, absolutely brilliant book. This comic got me to start reading superman. It's also the prime example I always point to when arguing that single issue comics should be brought back. I've really been trying to get people to read it these past few years as it's still just a culturally relevant as ever so I'm very glad your putting a spot light on it! P.s. sorry for the rant lol

[@timothyperez6099]

That hilarious and entertaining tangent on a classic movie was well needed! Another awesome episode of Back Issues and still hoping for y'all to cover The Just Imagine series with Stan Lee's take one the DC heroes!

[@Martin_TheCollector]

Oh wow, I don't recall ever reading this issue. Kinda weird since I used to read a crap ton of Supes' tales. Joe Kelly is way too awesome. My favorite Deadpool writer!

[@Neyebureturns]

I really like this book. Zack Snyder and his fans need to read it, specially the dream speech, because Zack said “You are dreaming of you think your heroes don’t kill”. And I love the tangent about “Back to the future 3”

[@halfmettlealchemist8076]

Oh shit yeah, do you mean that one interview where Zack Snyder basically quoted Manchester Black word-for-word by accident, except he clearly didn’t read the book because Superman’s response is basically a deconstruction of that entire idea? Because I read the transcript of that and I felt like I was losing my goddamn mind

[@Neyebureturns]

@@halfmettlealchemist8076 yes, that interview showed once more that he hasn't read a lot of Superman's comics.

[@ridge825]

@@halfmettlealchemist8076 and that's why he shouldn't be bought back to the DCEU

[@halfmettlealchemist8076]

@@ridge825 Admittedly, the way DC editorial basically unofficially blacklisted Snyder was really shitty, and I am in support of him making more movies if he wants to. I just think that, if he does, he should just keep it within his own separate continuity, and let someone else oversee the main DCEU. That way, everybody wins.

[@ridge825]

@@halfmettlealchemist8076 But that sucks there's already too many universes at this point the entire dceu continuity is in the shitter hope flashpoint fixes a lot of the mistakes

[@MrBromansa]

Sal mentions the Authority during one of my favourite Superman stories, I'm already invested - give me 100 of your Planetary stock!

[@Gronmin]

One of the best comic pop episodes, just because of the conversation about it and the added context for what is going on around the comic adds so much

[@komickid833]

This is one of my favorite Superman stories and really captures the essence of his character and why he is what he is and does what he does. Although I have to say, I like the animated adaptation a little better. While as a fan of Wild Storm, I'm irritated that Mark Miller portrayed the authorities as a bunch of jerks when they were simply the league of their universe.Great job, guys. 😊

[@panthergod]

Uh.. Warren Ellis made them jerks. They were self righteous left wing Authoritarians. That's the point. And always was.

[@komickid833]

@@panthergod That was still Millar. Up to that point, the authority was having big sci-fi adventures, so when Milar took over, it was Tonal Whiplash Issue 13, the beginning of Milar's run, They killed the figurehead of a southeast Asian country, dropped him into a cart of dead bodies and let his people kill him. The beginning of Eilis's run starts with two magic assholes pointing a dome over Japan and wanting to take over the world. They weren't self-righteous left-wing Authoritarians. Milar rolled that ball down the hill as soon as he got the chance.

[@panthergod]

@@komickid833 .. read Ellis Stormwatch. When Ellis gas Jenny Sparks say, " Behave.", that was Authoritarian tendencies of the Left on display. Ellis himself acknowledged his interpretation was a benevolent Fascism on display. Power does not mean you are fit to rule. The Authority where an extention and continuation of the Changers from change or die in Stormwatch, itself a tribute and critique of early politically radical Golden Age superhero/pulp hero ethics in the post Watchmen era. Stormwatch were a critique of UN stormtroopers of the Establishment New World Order globalist Western elite. Autjority were represebting the ideals of left activists corrupted by Black Ops military conditioning. Ellis whole point both in Stormwatch, Authority and Planetary is that today's revolutionaries usually become tomorrow's tyrants despite initial good intentions because Power without checks and balances almost always Corrupts.

[@komickid833]

@@panthergod late reply. You raised an extremely valid point about the authority, Stormwatch, planetary, and when I said that it's different from Ellis to Miller, it's more like Ellis handled the benevolent fascism with what could be called subtlety. Miller approached it the way you would use a cudgel.

[@Animalfriend777]

This was one of the first Superman stories I ever read, part of an omnibus of best Superman stories I got as a kid. Still one of my favs

[@pedrosantos3877]

Thank you for doing more Superman. I know it doesn't get as much views as other characters but I love a good story about the man of steel. Keep up the good work!

[@Pikepaw]

It has been watching Back Issues over the years that made me appreciate who Superman truly is rather than his image in the popular consciousness. I used to just think he was boringly overpowered…but the point is his character and his morals. Superman still isn’t my favourite, but I see his value

[@ultimate_lance]

35:05 I’m laughing like a maniac just from this rant

[@michaelscottfuku]

The animated version of this is really good. Just found out it was based on a comic. Very cool.

[@nemesis3587]

I watched animation version before and it was terrific. That just made me respect Superman so much. There was a time when many people was teenager, they think Superman is a lame hero but after maturing, people understands Superman's morals and importance. This story is one of the best story ever written. Both version have their own charm. Whenever I see some idiots rambling about Superman who are not know anything about him, I always points out this story. I really appreciate this story and its critisism of so called morally grey heroes. How DC still makes idiotic injustice Superman clones is unbeliable. For Autority, it is actually a really good book. Even Mark Millar run is pretty enjoyable. But it is completely different universe. That kind of anti-heroism only works that kind of seperate universes. In a giant universes like main DC and Marvel universes, that kind of stupid anti-heroism not works. And I don't wanna start with early Image comics. How that horrible things worked and inflenced others is beyond belief.

[@grey011680]

The title is also a play on the title of an Elvis Castello song, "What's so funny about Peace, Love, and Understanding"

[@thewilhelmscream7912]

I just really enjoyed this entire episode, you guys did a great job encapsulating the single issue, explained what is so good about Superman and also just had fun doing it, fantastic job guys!!! :)

[@ftfasttalkfoodreviewsyt]

Sal at the end explains the superman going ballistic. All I can hear is the movie.

[@LogantheSloth]

Superman vs The Elite NEEDS to be adapted for the next Superman live action film if WB ever decides to actually respect the character.

[@marianfranklin8383]

Sadly that's not going to happen, a straight white man beating up a black guy, a Hispanic woman, Chinese guy and some hate America guy. Imagine the tweeter and the internet response.

[@mr.goblin6039]

@@marianfranklin8383 Who gives a fuck about Twitter?

[@fastfreeze0183]

@@marianfranklin8383 Superman isnt white he isnt even human

[@marianfranklin8383]

@@mr.goblin6039 Every corporation that doesn't what woke jerks marching in front of their building screaming there are racist.

[@marianfranklin8383]

@@fastfreeze0183 He looks white and was raised in Kansas. Woke jerks will say he's white.

[@JuneTheeQueen]

Oh my god. This is my favorite single issue, I'm so glad they are finally doing it!

[@cozen_kevalas]

...smothered in doritos dust and oreo crumbles, flanked by a massive cup emblazoned with golden arches filled to the brim with high fructose corn syrup in a field of various types of plastic packaging from sea to shining sea! *tears in eyes*, *eagle wrongly given a hawk cry in the background*

[@DonniedrakoE]

Considering this is one of my favorite Superman comics im glad that you guys covered it. Loved this event.

[@chrisdaily2077]

The Superman story with a title longer than the book itself.

[@TheClitCommander530]

Wow! What a great book. I used to hate on Superman when I was younger, but as I've gotten older I've come to really appreciate Superman for the ideals that the character upholds. Thanks again ComicPop for putting me up on an amazing book that I otherwise wouldn't have read. You guys are the best:)

[@InsaneLeader]

The rant about Back to The Future was hilarious.

[@Larryboy2701]

The Back to the Future 3 tangent is my favorite tangent of all time.

[@kstark321]

Ironically, that dude on the left pretty much confirms why the world needs Superman

[@thetizic]

Totally agree that the movie version lands better for me. Watched that before seeing this Back Issues and was hoping the source material might even be better so that's a little disappointing. But still nice to see a movie adaptation improve the concept. Also crazy that's it's one issue!

[@mcstrategist]

Same writer so he could make adjustments he had thought about between creations.

[@ramohnfisher3654]

I've adored this book and the movie particularly for a long time. I just don't think DC are capable of doing anything this good with superman as they are now.

[@jessegonzalez6982]

Hey Sal I guess you can say that superman is killable but is truly unbreakable. Gotta say you seemed very passionate about this particular superman story what a great episode

[@HollowGolem]

Oh yeah, Action #775! Can't wait to get home and watch this bad boy. I loved this comic (and the movie did a great job of adapting it)

[@Legozachk]

This is my favorite single issue of all comics. I’m so glad you guys covered it!

[@ironline6830]

This is a great story in it's own right and as a statement to people who think everyone in fiction has to be some kind of Batman,Goku, Punisher,Hulk,or Deadpool knockoff i love 2 of these characters but I don't want superman to be anything other than who he's always been even if I'm not a reader of his if the character who is probably the most upfront and honest can't be understood for what he is then how do you understand any character

[@samshaw3657]

thanks for doing one of my fave superman stories. Stories attacking his morals and not his strength are always good.

[@lazarussolomon3541]

"The authority of the American Values are to never Be questioned. The authority of the American government is to ALWAYS be questioned" my kindergarten teacher and a proud Native American. Thats the American way that Superman stands for

[@TrackMaster844]

One of my favorite Superman stories!! So glad you guys are covering it!

[@flywheelshyster]

I had to finish it this morning, that Back to the Future 3 rant mid episode is the best thing, damn that doc brown!

[@loganthomas2421]

One of my favorite single issues of all time. Also, the story where Manchester Black “kills” Lois is part of Superman ending battle which is great and I’d love to see on backissues

[@rulebook6836]

Man I always love hearing people talk about this amazing story.

[@berke_karaca]

This is one of my favorite superman books of all time. Cuz people my age (or those that I know) all mock superman and his ideals. Saying that he is too naive and boring because he is a goodie goodie two shoes and don't believe someone so powerful could also be someone so gentle at the same time. Funny enough, I convinced one of my friends (one of the guys I mentioned above) to watch the film adaption recently. Hopefully he'll change his mind and start the see superman the same way I see him. Again thanks for great video guys keep up the great work 👍.

[@the_rose_garden01]

I don't understand how people can accept Superman can fly, hold up the earth, shoot lasers out of his eyes, etc. but not that he's morally incorruptible

[@thegloriouswizard5270]

Srsly.

[@NoBody-lj5xh]

I think it's telling of the human condition. People can see literal fucking GODS and the thing that makes them question what they're seeing is that those Gods are helping people.

[@marianfranklin8383]

@@NoBody-lj5xh Humans have learned people lie and hide stuff, so what are those gods hiding or lying about.

[@the_rose_garden01]

@@marianfranklin8383 Superman isn't human, though

[@NoBody-lj5xh]

@@the_rose_garden01 Read it again, slowly.

[@kazen16]

i like it, the idea of you dont have to re invent Superman to be more modern or edgy is a cool concept! i love sals take on hes fictional therefore he can be perfect, he doesnt have to flawed.

[@StareachValcin]

I definitely enjoyed the Superman comic story "what's so funny about truth, justice, and the American way " because it is one of the best stories that shows who Superman is as a person and a hero, why he's the hero he is with morals and restraints, how terrifying it would be if Superman acted without his morality and humanity, as well as how Superman's values and morality are relevant and make him human. The animated movie adaptation Superman vs the elite is also good.

[@mr.master2017]

I really love it when you guys cover Superman stories on the channel and I hope you do it more often! Was wondering if you would cover secret identity or Superman and the Legion of Superheroes next. The latter would especially be fun as, to my knowledge, there’s never been a legion-centric story on the couch and it would be interesting to see what Ben and Ethan make of them.

[@Crimsonknight700]

This is one of my favorite Superman comics. Thanks for another great episode of Back Issues.

[@ChristopherZubin]

Another one of the seminal works in the Superman mythos. It'd be interesting to see Sal do a follow up with Morrison's, Superman and the Authority comic. Especially as more comes out about 5G, like in Morrison's substack.

[@GothamKnight-hsw4vx526430]

WOO!!! Oh, BOY was I so stoked to see this in my notifications! Surprised you hadn't covered this issue before, it's my absolute favourite Superman issue and probably story overall. It really understands and embodies the character in a single issue. Well written, tight, cohesive package in one book, I always recommend this book to everyone. Also to who wants to read Superman, or who knock him as a character so they see what we see and why he's beloved. Thank you guys a ton for covering it I loved this episode!!! Also, the Back to the Future 3 rant was fuckin hilarious LMFAO great shit!

[@paulkokorotsis8215]

The animated adaptation of this story is the best Superman animated movie in my opinion.