Superman on Television

Legion of Super Heroes: Episode Reviews

Season 1 - Episode 1: "Man of Tomorrow"

I didn't know what to expect with this show, but I was pleasantly surprised. The animation was fun and energetic, almost kinetic. But certainly what impressed me most was the story.

Granted there were only 22 minutes or so to tell the story, and so it had to be done quickly, but it's very much a story about a young Clark Kent trying to figure out who he is and what his place in the world is. If that's the general tone the show will be taking through the course of the stories, Superman fans should be incredibly pleased.

Frankly, that aspect of it is what I've wished all along "Smallville" would have been (even without the costume itself). But I'm not here to review "Smallville", so we'll stick to "Legion".

The other Legion members are certainly present, with Brainiac 5, Saturn Girl and Bouncing Boy getting the most face time. And mark my words, the latter is already well on his way to becoming a fan favorite.

Other members making notable appearances were Lightning Lad, Phantom Girl and Triplicate Girl, the latter of which they did some truly innovative things with during the battle (and I like the costume-color changes that happen when she splits, it's very cool and makes it stand out more).

Other notable Legion members got mentioned by name as well, so we can expect to see them in the future (most notably Colossal Boy, Cosmic Boy and Shrinking Violet).

Some changes were made to some of the characters, such as Brainiac 5 seeming to be an android of sorts, which some Legion purists are probably going to have a problem with. Frankly it didn't bother me at all, but then I'm a much bigger Superman fan and he was just as you'd want him to be.

On the whole it was light-hearted and fun, Superman's role was treated properly and with respect and, based on this episode, I'm really looking forward to what they might have in store. Quite entertaining for both kids and adults, and I can absolutely see tons of kids falling in love with the vast array of Legion members in brightly colored outfits and crazy powers that the show is sure to trot out in the future.

I think we've got a winner on our hands.

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