My Adventures With Superman gives us an anime Clark Kent who can flirt

Superman, as a comic book character, is virtually indestructible. The last child of Krypton’s doomed world, he was raised by two farmers who worked hard in Smallville. Then he went to Metropolis and became a reporter, using his special powers for humanity’s good. It’s easy to forget about Superman when he has such a solid foundation. Superman is a very good person. This has always been his main attraction, even when we think of the best on-screen portrayal of the character (that by Christopher Reeve from the 1978 Richard Donner original film). Why wouldn’t we like him? He’s… nice.

But just “being a good guy” does not make for an interesting character, something that even Reeve knew as he imbued the Man of Steel with a cheeky sense of charm. And it’s something that the creators behind My Adventures With Superman, a new animated show on Adult Swim that streams on Max seems to have the same knowledge. The blueprint for Superman has existed for nearly 90 years. It’s a little harder to create a Superman who is actually a great character.

The series takes place in the early years of Clark Kent — he’s a new intern at the Daily Planet with his pal Jimmy Olsen. In the series, they still live in the same apartment in their 20s as a result of the poor pay that is inherent in even fictional media industries. In this essay, I will…) He’s getting used to life in Metropolis and also life as a guy who wants to help people while wearing a primary-colored costume. Lois Lane meets him on the way to her first day at work. This is both a fateful meeting and a cute encounter that will shape their whole relationship. Their connection is one of the most energetic aspects of the show, and it’s where the vibrant take on the Superman character begins.

Warner Media

Lois Lane’s budding relationship with Clark Kent/Superman has taken a variety of forms over the years. Lois Lane was intrigued by Clark in the 1978 movie, but instantly smitten by Superman. In the DC Animated Universe, which has loomed over every other attempt at superhero animation made since, Lois was befuddled by Clark’s infallible amiability and fascinated by Superman, the “Nietzschean fantasy ideal all wrapped up in a red cape.” Inevitably, she grows to love both sides, but My Adventures With Superman opts to skip past the will-they-won’t-they and makes it clear from the beginning: These two kids have a crush on one another.

Superman’s new-found feelings towards Lois make him more human. This take on Clark can be fairly buffoonish — he breaks alarm clocks and tears door handles off, the masterpiece of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster reimagined in pure himbo style. It’s a great contrast to see his clumsiness magnified by trying to impress the cute girl. What is his drive to save humanity? That’s perhaps his most natural instinct. It’s his desire to get into a serious relationship. That’s It’s a bit complicated.

Warner Media

Warner Media

From the outset, it’s clear that the show is anime-inspired, from the action sequences (fast-paced and well-choreographed, they remind me of some Naruto ShippudenCharacter expressions (fights) are a great way to add realism and character. Lois and Clark’s blushing is a staple of anime. It’s honestly hard to think of another Clark Kent (outside of perhaps the one in Smallville) that’s been this devoted to the little joys of puppy love. His character is easy to cheer for in both these situations and later when he’s off on a battle.

That’s not to say that Clark is defined solely by his aw-shucks smiles and heroics. It’s clear that, even as he works through the various overarching plots of the show (“Where did I come from and where are all of these villains coming from?” being the main two) that he’s quite inquisitive as both a hero and journalist. He’s not quite the gentle genius found in Grant Morrison’s All-Star Superman comics, but he’ll get there. And while he’s often the most stable of his pals, he still slips up in his friendships and his emotional reactions. Eventually, he will come to inspire the world, but for right now, he’s often a little perturbed when others don’t adhere to what he thinks is important.

Overall, My Adventures With SupermanThere is a Clark Kent in the film that has more to offer than his dedication to heroism. Much of it has to do with his age and his need to learn to be the Superman that he’s gonna be (it’s closest cartoon compatriot is The Spectacular Spider-Man, a series constructed under the mantra of “the education of Peter Parker”), but it’s a well-rounded and thoughtful approach. A man is already believed to be able to fly. What’s far more concerning is if he can flirt.