Written by Scott McCloud
Penciled by Bret Blevins
Inked by Terry Austin
Colored by Marie Severin
So, what’s the story?
A comatose Livewire is transferred from S.T.A.R. Labs to a hospital. The staff foolishly allows her access to a radio. She hears a talk show concerning women’s rights and the angry men that want to keep women down. The radio gives her the spark she needs to power up and attract a lightning bolt for a full recharge. Moments later, Livewire appears at the Daily Planet, having traveled through the power lines and Lois’ computer. Livewire tells Lois she’s going to do something about the imbalance of power between the sexes in the world, and disappears. Moments later, all the TVs and monitors switch to static. By the next morning, the world has learned that only content produced by women is being broadcast. Even print stories by male reporters are being deleted from computers. After discussing the situation with Lois, Superman heads to a power plant to intercept Livewire while she recharges. She’s too fast for him, though, and she escapes. Frustrated, Superman turns to Lex Luthor for help, knowing Luthor has some prototype weapons that might be able to help catch Livewire. Superman explains his plan of containment, and Lex agrees to help. Lois sets the bait, informing Livewire that Superman has challenged her to a duel. Livewire shows up at the appointed time and place, and she and Superman engage in combat. Lex sets up his weapon, but instead of simply containing Livewire, he takes her down directly. She appears to be in a coma again.
This is one of those rare stories that could have really benefitted from a longer format. There’s a lot of commentary regarding a patriarchal society, and the imbalance of power between men and women. Most of the characters agree Livewire must be stopped, but they don’t necessarily disagree with her goals. For a kid’s “cartoon” book, it’s fairly heavy stuff.
How’s the Art?
Not bad. A little loose in places. Livewire has some great facial expressions.
Any continuity issues?
Not really. Livewire starts and ends in a coma, so it could happen after her debut episode, but before her team-up with Parasite.
Anything of interest to customizers or cosplayers?
Not this time.
Is this issue worth my precious time?
Yes, indeed.
Leave a Comment
