krakoa's Superman/Shazam: First Thunder #4 - Part IV: Men and Boys! Gods and Thunder! review

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    The Batson Problem

    This issue is the high point of the four part miniseries detailing the first meeting between Captain Marvel and Superman. I won't spoil, but a tragedy triggers Billy's rage and he goes on a bit of a rampage. When Superman confronts him, he is stunned to learn that this superhero whose power nearly matches his, is a child. Superman confronts the wizard Shazam and understands that he can better aid Billy as a friend than by berating Shazam. It's definitely a coming of age for young Mr. Batson and a fairly significant moment for the two heroes. It's a shame it took three mediocre issues to get to this point. Honestly, as a whole I'd say this series can be passed up by the interested potential reader. 
      The problem is, that DC has what I refer to as "the Batson Problem". Since the Golden Age lawsuit and the acquisition of the character from their former rival, DC really hasn't known what to do with this intriguing and very underrated hero. They seem to fear that if the character gets the good treatment he deserves, he may rival the success of Superman, which was a concern when both characters first came on the scene during the golden age, the result is a missed opportunity in a character that more often than not goes unseen of and unheard of. 

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