"You Have To Be Born To Be Superman." - Superman. Before I continue there will be stuff that is explained in this issue that might give you some questions to ask. Before reading Superman/Batman Annual #4, you are going to want to pick up War Of The Superman #4, and watch a episode in Batman Beyond called, The Call Part 1 and 2. Doing this will answer most questions that will be asked. Writer Paul Levitz is joined by artist Renato Guedes on a story about Batman of the Future and Superman. This story takes place years after Terry McGinnis' encounter with the Justice League (as seen in Bruce Timm's Batman Beyond Tv Show). Metropolis is becoming crime-free, as someone is getting rid of criminal scum permanently. A preview for Red Hood: The Lost Days is also added to this issue.
The Good
Bruce Timm's Batman Beyond has been a key element in this issue. From bringing up Starro that controlled Superman in the episode, to the story of War Of The Supermen. This has truly been a thrill for anyone who reads this comic. How the characters react to each thing, has been enjoyable. While reading this issue, the reader will find out that Lois died while Superman was still under Starro's command. Lex Luthor took over Metropolis, and is now making the city less bright and happy. Renato's artwork for this issue worked well with this one-shot story. The every page for this issue was always something new and unexpected. Mon-El and Zod was a good tie-in. Showing that Batman Beyond's universe might have had some "main" stories from the current Comic Book lines. Stanley Lau better known as "Artgerm", did a awesome job at the cover for Superman/Batman 4th annual issue. Showing the reflection of Clark & Bruce on the screen was a great add.
The Bad
Metallo was cool to see in this issue, however he could have been left out. It was good to see that Superman still has enemies in his past, however he just had about 4 panels then disappeared after being thrown into a river. He was drawn a little weird too, his head was drawn really big in this comic.
The Verdict
Batman Beyond was a good tie-in for Superman/Batman 4th Annual. Bringing Bruce Timm's Batman Beyond episode to new heights. Creating eventual stories that will be greater than this issue. Hopefully, Superman and Terry will team-up again. Who Knows? Overall this is a 5 out of 5.
The Batman of tomorrow finally makes its way into mainstream comics (aside from the Batman Beyond comic, and some neat cameos in Superman/Batman.). I won't take the time to explain the setting, if you've seen Batman Beyond then an explanation would be redundant, unless you haven't but lets pretend you did. Paul Levitz does an excellent job of taking up from the original series, referencing the starro episode, and even takes time to explain what happened in a brief summary. This issue actually de...
The announcement of Dan DiDio bringing back Terry McGinnis, the brainchild of Paul Dini and Bruce Timm into the spotlight after years of fans clamoring for his return since 52 was met with open arms by many who grew up watching Batman Beyond. From being featured in this annual issue to having a mini-series, it seems like the Batman of the Future may have a home in the DCU. And after reading this issue, not only he has a home, he's set to be a long-time resident. Terry McGinnis, welcome home. And...
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