Episode 134 - Superman: Secret Origin with Alex McConnell

Men of Steel

It’s time to look at what just might be technically the current origin of Superman, Geoff Johns and Gary Frank’s Secret Origin miniseries! Alex McConnell joins Case and Jmike to look at this retro reboot of the Man of Tomorrow’s earliest adventures!

Find Alex: ADMcConnell.com

Overview

In the latest episode of the podcast, the hosts delve into the intricate world of Superman through a detailed discussion of the "Secret Origins" comic, featuring a guest expert, Alex McConnell. They explore the nuances of Superman's character evolution, particularly how Geoff Johns tends to revert heroes to their classic Silver and Bronze Age personas, and they critically examine Gary Frank’s artistic style. The hosts debate various iterations of Superman's origin stories, alongside the significance of his relationships with characters like Lana Lang and Lois Lane. They also analyze the portrayals of villains such as Lex Luthor and Metallo, emphasizing the impact of Metropolis' development and the role of media as embodied by the Daily Planet. Additionally, they touch upon themes of continuity, the shifting canon within DC Comics, and the story's broader cultural implications, including discussions on media ethics and public perception. Ultimately, the episode offers profound insights into the entwined relationships and symbolism within Superman's narrative and its portrayal of superhero culture.

Notes

Superman Origins Discussion (00:00 - 10:25)

• Discussing Superman's Secret Origins comic

• Geoff Johns' tendency to revert characters to Silver/Bronze Age versions

• Comparison of Gary Frank's art style over time

• Introduction of guest Alex McConnell

Comic Book History and Context (10:25 - 22:50)

• Discussion of Legion of Superheroes storylines and continuity

• Comparison of different Superman origin stories

• Debate on bringing back classic elements vs. new interpretations

• Analysis of post-crisis Superman and its impact

Art and Character Design (22:50 - 33:25)

• Critique of Gary Frank's art style in Secret Origins

• Discussion of Clark Kent's personality and relationships

• Analysis of Lex Luthor's character development

• Comparison to other Superman media adaptations

‍♀️ Character Relationships and Development (33:25 - 43:29)

• Exploration of Clark's relationships with Lana Lang and Lois Lane

• Discussion of Superman's powers and their manifestation

• Analysis of the Kent family dynamics

• Debate on the portrayal of Metropolis and its citizens

Villains and Supporting Characters (43:29 - 53:25)

• Introduction and analysis of Rudy Jones/Parasite

• Discussion of John Corbin/Metallo's origin

• Exploration of Lex Luthor's role in Metropolis

• Analysis of military and government involvement in the story

Metropolis and World-Building (53:25 - 01:05:00)

• Discussion of Metropolis' portrayal before and after Superman's arrival

• Analysis of Lex Luthor's influence on the city

• Exploration of the Daily Planet's role in the story

• Debate on the military's portrayal and xenophobia themes

Action Sequences and Power Usage (01:05:00 - 01:15:07)

• Analysis of Superman's fight with Metallo

• Discussion of creative power usage in combat

• Exploration of kryptonite's effects and portrayal

• Debate on the pacing and timeline of events in the story

Media and Public Perception (01:15:07 - 01:24:21)

• Discussion of the Daily Planet's role in shaping public opinion

• Analysis of Lois Lane's character and journalism style

• Exploration of Superman's impact on Metropolis culture

• Debate on the story's portrayal of media ethics and responsibility

Continuity and Canon Discussion (01:24:21 - 01:33:16)

• Analysis of Secret Origins' place in Superman canon

• Discussion of DC Comics' reboots and timeline changes

• Comparison to other Superman origin stories and adaptations

• Final thoughts on the comic's strengths and weaknesses