Loeb Discusses Recent “Superman/Batman: Public Enemies” Animated Feature Release
The World’s Finest caught up with famed comic and television writer Jeph Loeb for a quick Q & A to share his thoughts on the recent direct-to-video Superman/Batman: Public Enemies animated feature released under the DC Universe Animated Original Movie banner by Warner Home Video. The Superman/Batman: Public Enemies animated feature arrived on home video in September 2009. The animated feature adapted the six-issue story arc of the same name, originally written by Loeb, from the Superman/Batman comic series currently published by DC Comics. The story features Superman and Batman facing off against Lex Luthor, now President of the United States.
The Worlds Finest: First up, what are your thoughts on the finished product?
Jeph Loeb: I thought it was great. Any time we can get our stories out there beyond comics is awesome.
WF: What did you think of the changes made, such as the new explanation for the bounty on Superman’s head, or the altered ending (I.E., no more “There will be a crisis..”), etc? Any alterations you disagree with?
JL: I think it helps that I work in television and film already. I understand the challenges of making a story accessible to an audience that isn’t reading comics. Things like “There will be a crisis” is super cool for the comic book reader, but how would that translate to everyone else. So it was all good.
WF: What about the art-style? Did you find it faithful, and that it translated the visuals successfully?
JL: Its always a challenge to take something that is 2-D and animate it. Both Ed [McGuinness] and I were thrilled with the end vision.
WF: Based on the impressive debut for the title, Warner Home Video has greenlit a second Superman/Batman movie. Which other story Superman/Batman story that you penned would you like to see adapted. Why?
JL: I hear rumors that they are doing Superman/Batman: Supergirl which introduces Supergirl to the DCU. It has a great cast, including Wonder Woman and and the villain Darkseid, and as written, a true origin story for Supergirl. All that and Michael Turner’s astonishing artwork. Go for it!
WF: Do you have any last thoughts on the title? Good? Bad? Do you hope you’ll see more of your work animated?
JL: I’d love to see more of it and if I have the time, be able to do the adaptation myself!
WF: To wrap up, what projects do you have on your plate right now?
JL: I’m about to begin this giant epic adventure over in Hulk revealing all the secrets of the Red Hulk starting in January. In February, a new project called Ultimate X with beautiful illustrations by Arthur Adams. And in March, I’ve got New Ultimates coming out with extraordinary artwork by Frank Cho. I’m very proud of what’s to come in 2010!
The World’s Finest would like to thank Jeph Loeb for his participation!
A co-production of Warner Premiere, DC Comics and Warner Bros. Animation, Superman/Batman: Public Enemies is now available to own on DVD and Blu-ray disc. The next title under the DC Universe Animated Original Movie banner, the direct-to-video Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths animated feature, debuts February 23rd, 2010 on DVD and Blu-ray disc.
Stay tuned for further Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths updates, including exclusive content and more.
Discuss this in The DC Animation Forum!