Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #40: Monster Mash

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest has had an incredible run so far with no sign of slowing down. One aspect that makes this so impressive is that Mark Waid has written every main issue. Waid seems to have a limitless amount of great ideas, with Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #40 being one of them. The elevator pitch to this issue would be something like “A kaiju attacks Metropolis, and Superman and Batman in a giant mech fight it.” Most readers would be sold just on that concept alone, but Waid weaves together a fascinating subplot that feels especially relevant. The issue begins with Commissioner Gordon and Perry White being interviewed by a “Dude-bro” podcaster. Waid wastes no time getting to the good stuff, with a giant monster appearing and Batman and Superman jumping into action. 

The series is at a point where the creative team can take some big swings. Adrián Gutiérrez has been on the series for a while now, and his style fits perfectly with this issue. Gutiérrez captures an impressive sense of scale and memorable designs for the monster and Batmech. The action in this issue is explosive and massive, with an interesting dynamic between Batman piloting the mech and Superman. This issue’s colors are done by Matt Herms, who does an incredible job with Gutiérrez’s work. Regular colorist Tamra Bonvillain’s signature style that has been a mainstay on this series is missed but Herms’ work has its feel but captures so much charm that the series has fostered.