“Batman/Superman” #31 is not only the next chapter in an eight-part emotional rollercoaster featuring the Man of Steel’s last days, it’s also evidence of writer Peter J. Tomasi’s exceptional storytelling skills, matched with the equally simple and straightforward style of the issue’s artistic talent.
Written by Peter J. Tomasi
Illustrated by Doug MahnkeIn part two of “Super League,” Superman enlists Batman’s aid in seeking out people that can help form his new super-league. A shocking discovery is made about a new super-being no one knew existed, and something is beginning to stalk Superman…
From the gorgeous opening page, with Superman flying through a smoky Bat-silhouette, the promise of the world’s finest teaming up is fulfilled with this effective visual. Writer Peter J. Tomasi and Doug Mahnke satisfy with a heartfelt issue that demonstrates the affection these characters have for one another. This is just the second part of an eight part, two month-long storyline with Tomasi as sole scribe on every Super-book. After the opening salvo of last week’s mysterious installment in “Superman” #51, “Batman/Superman” #31 has mostly heart mixed in with Doug Mahnke’s singular visuals. We also get some surprising developments that are sure to be explored in the announced “Rebirth” titles. However, as a team-up between the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel, it stands firmly on its own as a natural distillation of the two heroes’ unlikely relationship.
Like Tomasi did during his run with Patrick Gleason on their phenomenal “Batman and Robin”, Tomasi allows Mahnke to evoke powerful moments through visuals alone. A smiling Clark as he looks upon furry friends is a heartbreaking moment. We cannot fathom how calm he is with death looming over him. Mahnke’s powerful pencils, paired with Jaime Mendoza’s inks, give us a Superman who truly deserves the moniker. We also get to see how Superman expresses his swirl of anger and sadness during moments in the Batcave. Mahnke, with Tomasi’s guidance, clearly explores the complexity of these characters by using few knowing words and impactful body language.
Wil Quintana’s color palette impressively mixes the darker hues associated with Batman and the lighter tone of Superman. A remarkable example of this comes early on in the issue when Superman appears before Batman and the villain Tusk. Batman’s back is toward us and shrouded in black and gray while facing us is the blue, red, and yellow of Superman’s outfit in all its epic glory. The painted, otherworldly backdrop is a swirl of purple and red that signify the melding of both the light and the dark. Quintana’s use of teal in the scene within the Batcave brings a significant power to the surroundings and renders a glow that is almost tactile. The coloring gives the scene a sense of intimacy and warmth despite the setting and the situation.
“Batman/Superman” #31 is not just exquisitely drawn and colored. The words that Tomasi puts in Bruce and Clark’s mouth are at times humorous and affectionate. When Superman repeats a piece of joking banter that Batman had used on him earlier in the issue, it shows the bond between them is one of both trust and understanding. They listen to each other in a way that is different than their other compatriots. During his final hours, Clark goes to Bruce asking him to use his superior detective skills. If anyone is loyal and focused on a mission without the addition of emotion getting in their way, then it has to be Batman. Superman knows this to be true. Tomasi shows us the small cracks in Batman’s tough hide, yet also gives us two empathetic characters who are true comrades.
Unlike “Superman” #51, there is an urgency to “Batman/Superman” #51 that becomes truly palpable as the issue progresses. The stakes are higher and the reveal at the end compels us to see what will transpire with this certain individual. Mahnke utilizes close-ups in powerful ways, whether it’s a battle with mysterious monsters or a panel that is simply focused on Superman’s green eyes and furrowed brow.
There is only one confusing moment in the issue that was clearly meant to be followed up in the next chapters of “The Final Days of Superman.” Tomasi and the art team keep us guessing and wanting to read this serialized journey. There is a number on the issue that indicates it is a second part of the story, which makes this child of the ‘90s crack a smile. Tomasi is having fun with writing the remaining Super-books of the New 52 and obviously relishes the responsibility for telling what may be this Superman’s “final” story.
Final Verdict: 8.5 – “Batman/Superman” #31 is an exquisite distillation of Batman and Superman’s complex relationship while, at the same time, advancing a story that is guaranteed to have an impact on the Man of Steel in June.
