Men of Steel: Superman: Secret Origin with Alex McConnell

It’s time to look at what just might be technically the current origin of Superman, Geoff Johns and Gary Frank’s Secret Origin miniseries! Alex McConnell joins Case and Jmike to look at this retro reboot of the Man of Tomorrow’s earliest adventures!

Find Alex: www.ADMcConnell.com

Men of Steel Full Episode

Originally aired: October 18, 2024

Edited and Scored by Sophia Ricciardi

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Overview

In the latest episode of the podcast, the hosts delve into the intricate world of Superman through a detailed discussion of the "Secret Origins" comic, featuring a guest expert, Alex McConnell. They explore the nuances of Superman's character evolution, particularly how Geoff Johns tends to revert heroes to their classic Silver and Bronze Age personas, and they critically examine Gary Frank’s artistic style. The hosts debate various iterations of Superman's origin stories, alongside the significance of his relationships with characters like Lana Lang and Lois Lane. They also analyze the portrayals of villains such as Lex Luthor and Metallo, emphasizing the impact of Metropolis' development and the role of media as embodied by the Daily Planet. Additionally, they touch upon themes of continuity, the shifting canon within DC Comics, and the story's broader cultural implications, including discussions on media ethics and public perception. Ultimately, the episode offers profound insights into the entwined relationships and symbolism within Superman's narrative and its portrayal of superhero culture.

Notes

Superman Origins Discussion (00:00 - 10:25)

Discussing Superman's Secret Origins comic

Geoff Johns' tendency to revert characters to Silver/Bronze Age versions

Comparison of Gary Frank's art style over time

Introduction of guest Alex McConnell

Comic Book History and Context (10:25 - 22:50)

Discussion of Legion of Superheroes storylines and continuity

Comparison of different Superman origin stories

Debate on bringing back classic elements vs. new interpretations

Analysis of post-crisis Superman and its impact

Art and Character Design (22:50 - 33:25)

Critique of Gary Frank's art style in Secret Origins

Discussion of Clark Kent's personality and relationships

Analysis of Lex Luthor's character development

Comparison to other Superman media adaptations

‍♀️ Character Relationships and Development (33:25 - 43:29)

Exploration of Clark's relationships with Lana Lang and Lois Lane

Discussion of Superman's powers and their manifestation

Analysis of the Kent family dynamics

Debate on the portrayal of Metropolis and its citizens

Villains and Supporting Characters (43:29 - 53:25)

Introduction and analysis of Rudy Jones/Parasite

Discussion of John Corbin/Metallo's origin

Exploration of Lex Luthor's role in Metropolis

Analysis of military and government involvement in the story

Metropolis and World-Building (53:25 - 01:05:00)

Discussion of Metropolis' portrayal before and after Superman's arrival

Analysis of Lex Luthor's influence on the city

Exploration of the Daily Planet's role in the story

Debate on the military's portrayal and xenophobia themes

Action Sequences and Power Usage (01:05:00 - 01:15:07)

Analysis of Superman's fight with Metallo

Discussion of creative power usage in combat

Exploration of kryptonite's effects and portrayal

Debate on the pacing and timeline of events in the story

Media and Public Perception (01:15:07 - 01:24:21)

Discussion of the Daily Planet's role in shaping public opinion

Analysis of Lois Lane's character and journalism style

Exploration of Superman's impact on Metropolis culture

Debate on the story's portrayal of media ethics and responsibility

Continuity and Canon Discussion (01:24:21 - 01:33:16)

Analysis of Secret Origins' place in Superman canon

Discussion of DC Comics' reboots and timeline changes

Comparison to other Superman origin stories and adaptations

Final thoughts on the comic's strengths and weaknesses

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