Superman / Madman Hullabaloo!

Rating:
Summary: Any chance of Allred writing Superman again...
Review: ...either in the monthly Superman comics on a regular basis or even writing the screenplay for the next SUPERMAN movie, since he's dabbled in independent filmmaking? I'm serious. This book has a light, easy feel to the scripting that fits the character of Superman perfectly. I agree with the previous reviewer that Allred's portrayal of Superman as a confident, wise figure is on target. This is more or less what Superman should be (although the current writers on the Superman books seem to be steering Superman more in this direction--surely a good sign). Everything in the story, from the rampaging building to the health food fight to the zombie beatniks, ends up having a energetic charm instead of coming off as ridiculous (which would have been the case in the hands of a lesser writer). And the conversation Superman and Madman have about God is great. What a lovely insight into Superman's character. This was also my first exposure to Madman...and I have say, I like him. He's a cool guy. And the art is fine, too. Classic and quirky all at once, it fits the tale perfectly.

All in all, a great introduction to the Madman continuity, and a worthy addition to the Superman canon. Now if only we could get that proposed meeting of Superman and Madman's pals as hinted at on the last page....

Rating:
Summary: Great Fun!
Review: Superhero Comics the way they were meant to be. Allred'scharming writing and art make this one of the funner books of the 90'sera when every superhero had to be nastier and more bad...than all the rest. Allred's Madman character is one the most original superheroes in a long time, mostly due to the fact that Allred doesn't write him as a superhero character but as a real person. Madman's naive nature and sweetness is what makes him so charming and his bold visual is what makes him so memorable. Allred's handle on Superman is also well-done. Rather than the 90's version of the characetr which is unsure and unknowing, Allred hits Superman right on the head--confident, wise, and inteligent with a strong compassionate nature. The characters come to life because each has his own distinct personality rather than a team of tough guys. The book is delivered without a hint of cynicism and Allred has captured what makes Superheroes so fun--that wide-eyed, innocent, and uplifting feeling you got when you were a kid. END