Back Issue #22 June 2007 (magazine review).
This issue of ‘Back Issue’ from 16 years ago delves into the theme of ‘dynamic duos’, extending beyond its cover star. Let’s highlight some key features.
Writer Michael Kronenberg explores the 1969 storyline where Dick Grayson, old enough for college, parted ways with his mentor, Bruce Wayne (Batman). This shift, orchestrated by editor Julius Schwartz, aimed to refresh Batman’s direction and give Robin independent adventures. Mike Friedrich, a young writer closer to Grayson’s age, was brought on board, leading to campus-centered stories that strayed from conventional villain battles.
Jennifer M. Contino comments on the brief romantic link between Robin and Batgirl, suggesting their age difference wasn’t properly considered. I believe it was more about returning Robin to his sidekick role.
Christopher Irving shifts focus to the creative partnership of British writer Alan Grant (1949-2022) and American artist Norm Greyfogle (1960-2018) on Batman titles. These early issues, particularly notable for interviews with creators who have since passed, are worth seeking out. The issue also includes a ‘Greyfogle Portfolio’ showcasing some of his work.
On the topic of character partnerships, Michael Aushenker reviews the joint career of Captain America and the Falcon. Revealing Sam Wilson’s criminal past was a bit muddled, and it might have been better if he simply chose to fight crime traditionally.
Philip Schweier’s interview with Paul Levitz (1956- ) and Keith Giffin (1952-2023) about their time on the Legion Of Super-Heroes highlights the challenges of handling a title with numerous characters and extensive backstory. Despite many reboots in the DC Universe, their work, especially ‘The Great Darkness Saga’ featuring Darkseid in the 30th century, remains iconic. Levitz and Giffin note the creative freedom they enjoyed, detached from contemporary continuity.
Al Nickerson covers ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’, interviewing creators Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. He discusses the comic’s humble beginnings and its evolution into a significant franchise, also touching on the plethora of unsuccessful imitations it spawned. For fans, there’s a unique opportunity to see the pencilled panels before inking, though the final inked versions may appear overly dark.
Editor Michael Eury’s interview with Mike Richardson and Randy Stradley from Dark Horse Comics reveals their journey in the industry, particularly their innovative approach to securing film licenses. Their success came from being at the right place at the right time, unlike the major companies who viewed such ventures primarily as profit-making.
Alex Boney examines the partnership of Blue Beetle and Booster Gold under J.M. DeMatteis and Keith Giffin. During a period dominated by darker narratives like ‘Watchmen’ and ‘The Dark Knight’, their take on ‘Justice League Of America’ in the 1980s offered a comedic contrast. The unusual team dynamics, including Guy Gardner’s role as the comedic foil, provided a welcome relief from the prevalent darker themes in other titles. This approach serves as a lesson that comedy in storytelling depends heavily on the writer’s ability to effectively convey humor, a skill not all modern writers possess or are allowed to exercise.
Overall, this 2007 ‘Back Issue’ offers a plethora of surprising and insightful content for comic enthusiasts.
GF Willmetts
November 2023
(pub: TwoMorrows Publishing. 100 page illustrated magazine. Price: varies. ISSN: 1932-6904. Direct from them, you can get it digitally for $ 4.99 (US))
check out websites: www.TwoMorrows.com and https://twomorrows.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=98_54&products_id=546
