Superman: The Complete Animated Series (DVD)

Superman is truly one of the greatest superheroes ever to bear the title. He also happens to be one of the most maligned. There's even an entire website dedicated to proving he's a jerk. Few things make a mean-spirited comic geek smile more then seeing The Man of Steel getting his rear end handed to him. Some of the reasons for this are innate to the nature of the character, and some are based on the way the character has been handled by writers in the past (what with the racist WWII propaganda and all). Supe's reputation as "The Big Blue Boy Scout" makes him a fairly lame goody-two-shoes kind of hero, which is really hard to get away from without changing the character entirely. Modern sensibilities prefer darker heroes like Batman. Also, the fact that Superman is ridiculously overpowered makes him hard to root for. We like underdogs. Underdogs generally aren't invincible with superspeed, heat beams, x-ray vision, plus immortal with infinite strength. Most great heroes are flawed and are often at a disadvantage against their villains, but Superman was always portrayed as flawless and indomitable. Unless you had a green rock that is. That's what we call an uninteresting weakness. Also, Supes has become a massively utilized deus ex machina device for DC comic writers. Write yourself into an impossible situation in a Green Arrow story? No worries, Ollie can just shout Clark's name and all's taken care of. Ugh. But when you get down to it, we all grew up with him and we all love him. He's as American as apple pie and 10 times more iconic. He's also one of those characters whose moral compass is always clean. It may make him boring, but it also makes him a perfect hero. After the massive success that was Batman: The Animated Series , where else would DC's amazing animation team go? And they did an amazing job with a hero whose kiddie comic legacy gave them little to work with. Here's the textbook for writing great Superman stories, right here. Now, Supe's God complex was the first thing that needed to go. No turning back time at light speed or moving planets out of orbit for this Superman. This is a powered down version of the character who retains all of his powers from the comics, but has them amped down just enough to make him vulnerable and more relatable. He regularly has to use his brain to outwit villains, which is great. Second, the characters needed work. The shallowness of The Man of Steel's rogues gallery is legendary. Plus his legacy is layered with more cheese then a Chicago-style pizza. While there are numerous winks and references to the old school (Krypto and Bepto even get nods), this iteration really brought a hipper attitude and presentation of the denizens of Metropolis while walking the line between respect to the source material and updating outmoded devices flawlessly. This show is quite simply the definitive Superman. It pays tribute to the Golden Age with a sly sense of humor, but makes bold strokes to set itself apart from every past version of the character and the result should please all fans old and new. Pretty much the entire "Batman" team returned for this show, which accounts for the quality, and the voice acting was again as impressive as the fluid animation and great character designs. Dana Delaney is the perfect Lois Lane. She plays the character as cynical and snarky but lovable and entirely fearless. It's still annoying to me that the best reporter on the planet can't figure out that her closest co-worker is Superman with glasses on, Especially considering she finds out who Batman is in a day or two. I'd prefer that relationship just be out in the open already. Suspension of disbelief only goes so far. Other awesome contributions to the show include Michael Ironside as planet conquering overlord Darkseid, the fantastic Malcolm McDowell as kryptonite-fueled terminator Metallo, Lori Petty as Livewire (who was created for this series and proved to be one of the more memorable villains), and Brad Garrett as The Main Man himself, Lobo. A great cast goes a long way to making a good animated endeavor an unforgettable one. Like "Batman" the show also featured episodes co-starring many other DC regulars including Steel, Dr. Fate, Aquaman, The Flash (who challenges Supes to a footrace), Green Lantern, and others. The centerpiece of the series is an epic three episode arc teaming up The Dark Knight and The Man of Steel in a perfect melding of the two series. Bruce Wayne sweeps Lois off of her feet, Harley Quinn has a catfight with Lex Luthor's bodyguard Mercy Graves (another of several character created for the show that ended up being adapted to the comics), The Joker owns Supey and Luthor alike; the whole thing screams "WE LOVE YOU!" to fans of both shows. It was the first time they would cross over, but not the last. Eventually the entire DCAU would be united in the flawless Justice League series as a result. While "Superman: The Animated Series" is not as good as the Batman and JLA series, the difference in quality is negligible. This is a remarkable cartoon show that is probably even more enjoyable for adults then it is for children due to the sly humor and occasional darkness that marks this as the best adaptation of the character ever. Obnoxious interdimensional imp Mr. Mxyzptlk (voiced by Gilbert Goddfried, no less) being outwitted in seconds (he has to say his own name backwards to be sent back to his own dimension) by Clark and then spending 3 months plotting his next scheme while ignoring his Jessica Rabbit-looking sexpot of a wife only to be outsmarted in seconds again is too funny. And the evil irony of a murderer deducing Superman's secret identity exactly one second before he is executed is black comedy at it's finest. And let me tell you, the final arc shows us a seriously dark side to the Kryptonian boy scout. However, I honestly find it hard to believe that they went three full seasons without General Zod and his crew. They had a pair of Kryptonian criminals that were similar, but I think it's safe to say we would have rather seen updated versions of the villains from The best Superman film . While the cynic in me still likes to see Supes get owned now and again, this show made me realize just he much fondness I still have for the character and what he stands for. He holds a unique role as the prototypical American superhero who was and is the ideal champion to children everywhere. The 70's films with Christopher Reeve will remain cherished classics for generations to come. Big Blue deserves his props and this is where he really got it outside of comics it for the first time since Reeve wore the cape and refused to kneel before Zod. Fans of "Batman: The Animated Series" or comic book superheroes in general need to check this out. This is how you adapt The Man of Steel. 4 1/2 stars, rounded up for degree of difficulty.

When the critically-acclaimed "Batman - the Animated Series" premiered on Fox in the early 90's, it was obvious that the same production team would take a stab at DC fellow stablemate, Superman. "Superman - the Animated Series" ran on the WB from 1996-2000 and had the same top quality writing, animation, and use of top name acting talent as had its predecessor. The series is especially notable for assembling some of the best "voices" for any animated series. Dana Delaney is great as Lois Lane while David Kaufman perfectly assays the role of Jimmy Olsen. Just like Kevin Conroy is the definite Batman/Bruce Wayne, appearing in five episodes of the show, Clancy Brown is perfection as Superman's nemesis, Lex Luthor. The last, but certainly not least of the main characters, is Superman/Clark Kent, voiced by Tim Daly. The former "Wings" star does a good job of bringing "Ole Blue" to life. However, it is the actor's turn as Bizarro in three installments that is a treat for the ears. It's hard to imagine that Daly voices both Superman and his not-too-bright Doppelganger. That is a testament to Daly's skills as an actor. In addition to the main characters, recurring and guest villains are also brilliantly portrayed by the likes of Mike Farrell and real-life wife Shelley Fabares (Pa and Ma Kent), Malcolm McDowell (Metallo in 4 instalments), Brad Garrett (Bibbo and Lobo),Corey Burton (Braniac), Gilbert Gottfried (Mr. Mxyzptlk), Michael Dorn (Kalibak and John Steel), Ed Asner as the deliciously wicked Granny Goodness, and Michael Ironside as the despot Darkseid, just to cite a few. Speaking of the latter two, Asner and Ironside appear as their respective characters in the best episodes of the series, which include "Little Girl Lost,Parts I and II," "Apokolips, Parts I and II," and "Legacy, Parts I and II." These installments not only are inspired by legendary Jack Kirby's Fourth World series but demonstrate a more intense look at the Man of Steel as he faces what is arguably his greatest foe in the form of Darkseid. "Apokolips, Part II" also features one of the most surprising deaths of ANY television series, bar none. In addition to the series 54 episodes, this compilation has some really good audio commentary on several episodes, interesting looks at the myth of Superman, and a short piece on Darkseid. While some may decry the fact that there are some double-sided discs in the set, the bargain price makes up for the packaging issue.

We all know that Superman has been around longer than most of us can actually remember. Over the years, various individuals have created the character for comics, radio shows, television, and movies. In the 1990s, another such attempt was made, bringing us Tim Daly as the voice of an animated Man of Steel who kept the world safe from the likes of Lex Luthor and other nefarious foes. Their effort was well worth it as this series and Tim Daly's voice talent as the leading man brought us a Superman that fans old and new can enjoy. This series' terrific voice cast includes Dana Delany as Lois Lane, Clancy Brown as Lex Luthor, David Kaufman as Jimmy Olsen, Michael Ironside as Darkseid, Corey Burton as Brainiac and many more wonderful actors who brought a breath of fresh air to these classic characters. And what is a new incarnation without new characters? Lisa Edelstein and Lori Petty bring new creations Mercy Graves and Livewire respectively to the screen and both characters later earned a well-deserved transfer to the comics' cannon. And let's not forget the special appearances made by the Dark Knight and the Clown Prince of Crime. Yes, the three-part episode "World's Finest" can now be considered one of the greatest works within the DC Animated Universe. That's not to say that Batgirl's later appearance to help Supergirl foil Poison Ivy, Livewire, and Harley Quinn wasn't great as well...that was an episode that showed women who could hold their own. Personally, my favorite episode of this series will always be "The Late Mr. Kent" but I won't say more on that...you'll just have to watch and see why. I will say that this episode can be considered "the best of the best" as this series was amazing from pilot to finale. Enjoy.

I found this series to be a great addition to the realm of Superman entertainment. This series treats audiences to Kal-El/Superman and a great list of memorable villains like Brainic, Lex Luthor, Parasite, Metallo, and Darkseid. What I truly enjoyed about these 3 seasons is that while Superman is a powerful hero, he still struggles against his enemies in this series. Of course, epic and great villains such as Brainiac and Darkseid, challenge Superman to his ultimate limits. However, even the lower tier villain’s challenge him such as Parasite, Livewire, and Metallo. I was also thrilled at the fact that Superman had to use his intellect (brains) to overcome a number of his adversaries. It's fun to see Superman his brains over his enemies brawn. Superman: The Animate Series also does a fantastic job with showcasing the humanity and compassion of Superman, which are qualities that are quintessential to the character. Lastly, I want to mention that the voice actors are superb. Tim Daly is wonderful as Superman/Clark Kent, Clancy Brown is an excellent Lex Luthor and Dana Delaney makes for a great Lois Lane. Michael Ironside is also awesome as Darkseid. If there is any complaint that I have for this series is that the writers did not give Superman his power of freeze breath. It’s one of my favorite powers of Superman, yet he never uses it once in this animated series. However, overall this is a great series that is a classic. It definitely set a standard for future Superman series to come.

This is, by far, the very best screen version of Superman ever. Instead of just punching things, he is actually a really clever detective. And he actually has real emotions. An absolutely amazing series, if you liked Batman: The Animated Series, Batman Beyond or Justice League, you will love this! My favorite episodes: The Late Mr. Kent (A really good murder mystery). Apokolips... Now! (Big, epic and emotional). Legacy (The final two episodes. Surprising, depressing, emotional, epic and completely satisfying). Highly recommended! PS: If you plan to watch the Justice League/Justice League Unlimited series (which I recommend, that you do!), watch this first. PPS: For Region 2 fans: THIS WILL PLAY ON YOUR R2 PLAYER!!! This is also a pretty good box set. It's nice to have the entire series collected in one place, it's cheaper, and you get a 7th bonus disc. This only features one small feature, though. And while the cover looks cool (The S on his chest does this awesome reflection of the light!), it still a little flimsy. It's made of thin cardboard. And the discs are the same as the individual season releases. So, if you already own the individual releases, don't buy this. If you don't own them (like me), the this the very best way to own the show.

I'm not a huge Superman fan, and am in fact probably just the opposite so don't expect me to list off the Superman universe. I purchased this item solely because I had heard many good things about it, and I do enjoy seeing a well done animation. That, and I also enjoyed Batman Beyond a lot. Needless to say, I was not let down in terms of it being a well crafted animation piece. I jumped into this series with this collection, and the series itself was very well done. Out of the 54 episodes included in this collection, I think there were maybe two or three episodes that didn't have me impressed. The voice cast was very good, and every character sounded just right. Clark sounded just right, along with Lex, Bruce, and the whole crew. There weren't any character voices that sounded out of place. Beyond that, I felt that the series did a good job portraying Superman. We see his good days, we see his not so good days as well, and everything in between. There is character development, and a sense of continuity to go along with it. It's always a treat to see characters refer to previous experiences from previous episodes. That, and there are some cameos here and there that are a treat to shake off any chance of stale feelings. However, I think the greatest thing done in this series is that Superman isn't fighting one-sided fights. It's always interesting to read how powerful of a character he is supposed to be, but that would get boring quickly. Instead, we get a Superman who has to use his wits, and at times, he does fail the first, second, and third time around. Not enough to get ridiculous though. Going beyond the actual series this collection presents there is the physical product. You get a set of seven discs which contain all of the episodes and some extras. This is where I have a slight problem, double-sided discs. There is nothing inherently wrong with them, but it doesn't "feel" like a collector's set with them. I really would have preferred single sided discs such as those found in the Batman Beyond collector's edition. Again though, there is nothing inherently wrong with them though I did end up having to insert a few of the discs twice because I put the wrong side in first. The disc information is in small font, and only the "B" side is labelled. However, don't let this be the reason to not buy this collection. Overall, if you enjoy good old fashion American cartoons, then Superman: The Complete Animated Series shouldn't be too far off your list. Great animation, great characters, and great value.

Thank you!

I love the Superman Series. But, the quality of the DVD's themselves is crap! So far there are at least 3 episodes that won't play normally. They freeze for minutes, and then skip minutes. One episode I only saw about 5 minutes. (These are supposed to be new, by the way.) Then, when I went online to get a replacement, Amazon kept taking me in circles. Basically, it would say "Click here for returns and replacements", but when you get to the page, there are no selections to further the process. I know I was past the 30 days, but how do you watch an entire series in 30 days? And, at the very least, if the 30 day limit was the problem, why not just say so!