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Xtinction Agenda

Christmas with the Super-Heroes Vol. 1 #2 (1989)

·37 min·3 clips
Why does a podcast about pop culture open with a call for human extinction before discussing a 1989 Christmas comic?
The episode begins with a dark, nihilistic monologue about human extinction, setting a contrasting tone for a Christmas-themed discussion. Hosts James and James introduce 'Christmas with the Super-Heroes Vol. 1 #2', a 1989 DC comic edited by Mark Waid, which they chose after seeing it on Tom Brevoort's blog list of best comics from 1989. They note the anthology features original short stories by top creators like Paul Chadwick, Dave Gibbons, and Alan Brennert. The first story analyzed is a Superman tale by Paul Chadwick, where Superman prevents a suicide on a deserted road, leading to a debate about his moral approach and use of heat vision. Next, they cover a Batman story written as a poem by Dave Gibbons with art by Gray Morrow, discussing its symbolic portrayal of Batman and Robin. A Wonder Woman story by Eric Shanower is criticized for being preachy and emotionally shallow. The hosts then examine a silent Enemy Ace story by John Byrne and Andy Kubert, praising its artwork but noting confusion in the plot. A Green Lantern/Flash story by Bill Loebs and Colleen Doran is heavily criticized for its pro-billionaire messaging, with hosts expressing frustration over its portrayal of wealth. Finally, they highlight a Deadman story by Alan Brennert with art by Dick Giordano, which features a twist involving Supergirl and explores themes of heroism and loneliness. Throughout, the hosts compare the stories to modern interpretations, such as Grant Morrison's Superman, and reflect on the purpose of Christmas specials in comics. They conclude by sharing personal appreciation for Christmas-themed content and thanking listeners for years of support.

As heard by us

A Batman Christmas story survives blunt symbolism, crowded pages, and two hosts determined to learn why it works.

A 1989 DC holiday comic makes a persuasive case for putting real effort into seasonal superhero stories. After discussing John Woo's Silent Night, the two Jameses follow Tom Brevoort's best-comics-of-1989 list to Christmas with the Super-Heroes Vol. 1 #2.

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Why you'd press play

You'll hear two comics fans decide whether a dense, hokey Batman Christmas story somehow still works.

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