DC Comics 4/22/26 – JLU 18, Absolute Wonder Woman 19

Superman/Spider-Man 1

This special is worth picking up for the main story from writer Brad Meltzer, artist Pepe Larraz, colorist Matthew Wilson and letter Clayton Cowles alone. It’s a terrific story that beautifully honors both characters playing up their unique strengths while celebrating the vulnerabilities that truly make them heroes.

Meltzer goes big time with the villains as Lex Luthor and Green Goblin team up to go after the two icons and have them in a trap. This allows for some quality bonding and gives Meltzer a chance to show how  naturally he captures their voices.

Larraz also flexes with his incredible ability to go all-in with the large scale action sequences and the calmer, quieter moments. The final few pages are so heartfelt that longtime comic fans might find themselves getting emotional.

Another really strong story in an issue from the Geiger team of writer Geoff Johns, artist Gary Frank and colorist Brad Anderson with letterer Joe Carmagna. This one doesn’t lean as heavily into the Superman/Spider-Man dynamic as Superman, Stargirl (naturally) and Hal Jordan team with Captain America, She-Hulk and The Thing to reverse a rage infection sparked by Mysterio and Saturn Queen that was amplified by The Hulk. It’s a tremendous Superman and Thing story with the kind of character development DC fans would expect from Johns with Frank’s usual highly detailed art style and Anderson’s rich color work.

Thor and Steel have a fun team-up against Hobgoblin in a story from Louise Simonson, artist Todd Nauck and colorist Rachelle Rosenberg. This special has a little something for everyone from a team-up with Jane Foster and Wonder Woman to Miles Morales and Superman. Of the various modern DC/Marvel team-ups this is arguably the best yet.

Rating: 10 out of 10

Photo Credit: DC