Johns and JMS Tackle Superman and Batman
DC kicks off a week of huge announcements, starting with Geoff Johns and J. Michael Straczynski.
by Richard George
From the sound of things, this week is going to be packed with major DC announcements. Earlier this morning the publisher teased it would be laying out some of its major plans for 2010, and shortly thereafter it made good on its promise. Ready for some new projects by J. Michael Straczynski and Geoff Johns? Read on for what they're working on...
Many fans at many conventions have been asking if DC would use the original graphic novel format, or OGN, more often in its publishing agenda. Today the company has announced two new OGNs, both set on a new Earth in a new continuity.
For some time, we at IGN have speculated and questioned DC as to whether JMS would helm a Superman series. The famed writer has gone on record that he'd like to tackle stories featuring the character, and honestly his sensibilities and strengths seem perfectly fit for the Man of Steel. In 2010, JMS will finally get that opportunity.
Entitled "Superman: Earth One", JMS will team with artist Shane Davis to introduce a new Superman to a new Earth. DC provided this quote about his upcoming work:
"What I'm trying to do is to dig in to the character and look at him through modern eyes. If you were to create the Superman story today, for the first time, but keep intact all that works, what would it look like?"
Let's not forget the role of Geoff Johns in all of this. Johns will be taking care of a second OGN, and he'll be teaming with his frequent Superman partner, Gary Frank, but this time entering the world of Batman. Titled Batman: Earth One, this project will similarly introduce the Dark Knight to a new Gotham on a new Earth. It's unclear if the two projects will cross over or be related in any direct sense. We also don't know if DC plans more Earth One projects, or if any such projects would only be in OGN format. We'll just have to wait and see.
DC is taking care to avoid too many details at this time, since both projects aren't scheduled to see publication for many, many months. But that's certainly something to anticipate as we move into the new year.
