James Gunn vs. Matt Reeves, Plus Superman Mailbag | The Midnight Boys

Jimmy Corrigan: The Smartest Kid on Earth is a deeply personal and emotionally charged graphic novel by Chris Ware. The story intertwines two main narratives: one follows Jimmy Corrigan, a middle-aged man who travels across America to meet the father he has never known, while the other recounts the life of his grandfather, Jimmy Corrigan, growing up in late 19th-century Chicago under the abusive care of a single father. The book is praised for its intricate and innovative graphic design, its exploration of themes such as alienation, family history, and the interplay between memory and imagination. Ware's work is often compared to literary modernism, particularly the works of James Joyce, and is celebrated for its detailed and poignant portrayal of human suffering and the search for connection.

Frank Miller's "The Dark Knight Returns" is a seminal graphic novel that reimagines Batman as an older, more brutal vigilante. The story explores themes of aging, violence, and the nature of heroism in a decaying urban landscape. Miller's gritty style and mature themes challenged the conventions of superhero comics, influencing subsequent interpretations of the character. The novel's impact on the superhero genre is undeniable, shaping how Batman and other characters are portrayed in subsequent works. Its exploration of violence and the moral ambiguities of heroism continues to resonate with readers.