There is a danger inherent in adapting a story from one medium to another. That danger is doubled when the adaptation itself is readapted. This process has played out repeatedly with shows, games, and movies based on comics, leading to comics based on the shows, games, and movies. Oftentimes, these tie-in books are produced as quick cash-grabs, with little craft or care. Thankfully, that is not the case with My Adventures With Superman #1.
Based on the hit animated series, My Adventures with Superman sports the same anime-inspired aesthetic as the show. Despite the art style, however, the heart of the Man of Steel and his supporting cast remains untouched. Superman is still an idealist who wants to be everybody’s friend. Lois Lane is still an aggressive reporter, with tsundere tendencies. And Jimmy Olsen is still an excitable fanboy, albeit one with a second-life as a conspiracy theorist with a streaming show.
Set after the first season of My Adventures With Superman, this first issue finds Jimmy and Lois planning a special Christmas vacation for Clark Kent. This is due to it being his first time spending the holidays away from Smallville. Naturally, the plans have to be put on hold, due to complications involving an apparent supervillain and a government plot.
My Adventures With Superman Comic a Perfect Tie-In
The script by Josie Campbell perfectly captures the characters from the show. More, it subtly reveals the differences between this reality and the standard Superman comics, for the benefit of readers who might not have seen the show. Chief among these is the fact that this Jimmy Olsen is aware of Clark’s double-life. The artwork by Pablo M. Collar likewise mimics the animated series’ art style, with each panel looking like stills from the show.
My Adventures With Superman #1 is not likely to win over those unwilling to give a Superman manga a try. However, open-minded fans will appreciate how the comic, like the animated series, showcases how universal the themes and characters of Superman truly are. Fans of the show will likewise be satisfied with how the comic continues the series’ storyline.
Grade: 5/5.
My Adventures With Superman #1 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
