At different points throughout its future, humanity recalls legends of Superman, champion of “truth, justice and the American way.” This anniversary issues – featuring an all-star cast of artists and several strong short stories from Elliot S. Maggin – earns a rare A+ grade.
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When the ancient evil of Kulan Gath is unleashed in modern New York, Red Sonja and Spidey must team to stop him. An outstanding done-in-one outing from the classic X-team of Chris Claremont, John Byrne and Terry Austin.
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A mysterious government agent enlists Spider-Man’s help in solving a murder while Spidey also pursues Doctor Octopus. This annual features top-shelf art from John Byrne and Terry Austin but the story, by Marv Wolfman, leaves questions unanswered.
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This Charlton house magazine from Bob Layton’s CPL/Gang Publications features The Question by Roger Stern, Michael Uslan and Alex Toth, and Doomsday +1 from John Byrne. If only Charlton’s regular lineup was that good!
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When the Justice League’s very first foes reappear, new Leaguers must battle original members before the team can stand united against the threat. Gerry Conway’s story does its job, but the real treat here is the art of George Pérez, Jim Aparo, Joe Kubert and others.
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Topo the octopus runs off with Aquababy; Aquaman pursues, but winds up battling Starro the Conqueror instead. Weak villains bring down the story, written by David Michelinie, but the art by Jim Aparo is strong. (The J’onn J’onzz backup feature, drawn by Mike Netzer and Terry Austin, is pretty, too.)
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The Weather Wizard steals an experimental “vibrojector” to use against the Flash, but ends up battling Aquaman instead. David Michelinie comes onboard as writer, but Jim Aparo’s art (as well as Mike Netzer and Terry Austin’s art on the J’onn J’onzz backup feature) is the real draw here.
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Aquaman must stop the Marine Marauder, a “lowly marine biologist” who uses air-breathing sea creatures to steal swine-flu vaccine. Steve Skeates story is pretty silly, but Jim Aparo’s art is excellent as usual. Throw in a well-drawn backup story by Mike Nasser and Terry Austin (written by Denny O'Neil) and this is one to pick up for the art.
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Rom continues to search out Dire Wraiths on Earth – and uncovers a plot to free his mortal enemies from Limbo! Despite a new character who is a bit unbelievable, this third issue from the team of Bill Mantlo and Sal Buscema is another solid offering.
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Spider-Man joins Doctor Strange and Ms. Marvel in an effort to save Clea’s soul. Chris Claremont and an odd assortment of artists (including Howard Chaykin) turn in a rather run-of-the-mill mystical adventure.
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