Posted in: Comics, NYCC | Tagged: Comics, dc, doug mahnke, entertainment, NYCC, peter tomasi, phil jimenez, steve orlando, superman

The Superman Family Gathers At NYCC'16

By Octavio Karbank

DC Comics has been doing a marvelous job with their Superman line. From Action Comics and Superman, to Superwoman and Supergirl, a restored and animated energy flows out of these books. It doesn't matter if you've been a Superman fan for fifty years, or if it's your first time picking up a comic book; these stories have a little something for everyone.

Appearing on stage at this year's New York Comic Con Superman comics panel were creators Doug Mahnke, Peter Tomasi, Steve Orlando, and Phil Jimenez. Introductions were quickly made, before each creator explained the books they were working on, revealing nothing substantial, but obviously enjoying talking about everyone's favorite Kryptonian and his friends.

Peter Tomasi discussed his upcoming Superman arc:

– Beginning in Superman #8, which will feature Superman and son who, through various comic book shenanigans, end up fighting dinosaurs.
– This new arc is a tip of the hat to legendary creator Darwyn Cooke.
– While some of the stories, especially those involving dinosaurs, might at first appear all over the place, they will eventually all tie back together.
– In Superman #10, the issue will showcase Superman and Batman's parenting skills as their sons finally meet.

Doug Mahnke added a few comments of his own:

– The stories are fun and drawing Superman punching dinosaurs is also great.
– Mr. Mahnke noted the difference between Superman before and after he's become a father. Now that he's a dad, he's grown especially protective.

Phil Jimenez was up next and took a minute to give his thoughts on Superwoman. While it was mainly exposition about previous issues, there were a couple notable moments:
– Mr. Jimenez described Superwoman as a book about women helping each other and other people. It's also about people finding the best in each other.
– While multiple characters like Lana, Lois, and Steel all wear the "S", it means something different to each of them. Even though they are all heroes and had their lives deeply impacted by Superman, the way they each choose to honor his memory is unique and personal.

Finally Steve Orlando talked his Supergirl

– This Supergirl comic is an opportunity to show what she means and represents to so many. Mr. Orlando himself believes the actual character represents compassion.
– Kara's first villain is her father, which is an interesting counterpart to Superman and his father.
– In discussing Cyborg Superman, Mr. Orlando made it clear he doesn't feel like this is your average villain. Rather, Cyborg Superman is a complicated and multi-layered individual with a tragic pathos.
– Despite being the bad guy, Cyborg Superman is still Kara's father and ultimately wants the best for her. Unfortunately, since he's the villain, his concern doesn't come across as warm or cuddly.

The Superman family is made up of larger than life characters. These heroes offer us courage and inspire the best in us. With so many comics to choose from these days, it's oftentimes difficult to know what to read. That said, it's a pretty safe bet to pick up one of the Superman titles. With wonderful creators providing fantastic stories and artwork, you might find yourself missing out, should you choose to pass on Superman and his super friends.

Octavio Karbank is a writer and bona fide Whovian. Living in Massachusetts, you can find him on Twitter @TymeHunter and his blog www.cozmicventures.com

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