Batman/Superman – World’s Finest #31

Writer – Mark Waid

Artist – Adrian Gutierrez

The first part of Saturdays and Sundays are when I get new comic books read. The first two Saturdays of September were filled with so many activities, I didn’t have time to read any recent releases. I made some time on a Friday morning during my break to get to this issue and share some thoughts about it.

Quick story – When I buy books from Eide’s Entertainment , I show my friend Adam what I purchased. He usually flips through the books and gives his pick for best cover of the week. This issue with Eclipso on the cover was his clear favorite for the week of September 18.

Many people here at the site and those I talk to in person speak highly of World’s Finest. I read and reviewed the first volume and I wanted to see what the title had to offer lately. I decided to start with last month’s issue. Issue thirty featured the first team-up of the Trinity of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. It was a really well done – done in one issue.

This month, Mark Waid gives us a tale set during the Satellite Era of the Justice League. The team has gathered together to witness a solar eclipse safely onboard the hovering craft. What no one expected was some of the team to be possessed by Eclipso. How can this be? It’s revealed that Eclipso was successfully exorcised from Dr. Bruce Gordon and returned to the Black Diamond, which is safely locked away on the satellite. This is the only plot point I’ll give away. You’ll find out how Eclipso escapes and terrorizes our beloved heroes when you read this issue.

When I started getting into comics as a pre-teen, I remember buying some of the Eclipso – The Darkness Within tie-in issues. Eclipso is an underrated villain and I have a soft spot for him. Done well, he can be terrifying. Other times, he seems like a one-note joke that is easily defeatable. Waid does a great job making him a top-tier threat once more. There are two jaw dropping moments that happen toward the end of the issue that have me excited for the next one.

Kudos also has to go to the art and coloring team of Adrian Gutierrez and Tamra Bonvillain. Their work together makes this story feel like a classic adventure from the 50s or 60s. We never get a true reveal of what period these stories take place but they feel timeless and that’s definitely what makes this series loved by so many.

Don’t make the same mistake I did – by waiting so long to check this series out.

Let’s take a look at what is in store next.

Next Issue – “ECLIPSO’S REIGN OF TERROR RAGES ON! Even the combined might of the Man of Steel and the Dark Knight Detective cannot overcome the reincarnation of the literal wrath of God… sounds like our heroes are going to need some reinforcements. It’s the World’s Finest debut of the Justice League as night falls on the DCU.” In Stores October 16th, 2024.