DC Comic properties might not be doing well in theaters, but it looks like they’ll have better success on the small screen. Their latest series, the animated My Adventures with Superman, is a fun and youthful take on the iconic Man of Steel.
The show takes place at the start of Clark Kent’s journalistic career as an intern with his best friend Jimmy Olsen. Lois Lane has seniority over the pair and together they look to make a name for themselves as reporters. At the same time, Clark always knew he was different, but he begins to familiarize himself with his powers and become the hero the city needs. His private and professional lives overlap when Superman becomes the big story the trio want to break.
The dynamic between the three main characters is what carries My Adventures with Superman. You really feel their closeness, and voice actors Jack Quaid, Alice Lee, and Ishmel Sahid bring a fresh energy. Clark, Lois, and Jimmy all feel like bright eyed and lively go-getting young adults ready to change the world. There’s a playful vibe between them that doesn’t deter the more serious moments as they hit rough patches as well as the budding romance between Clark and Lois. They all are so wholesome and adorable and it’s a joy watching them grow up through the season.
Storywise, it’s a nice slow burn gradually revealing pieces to the overarching narrative related to Clark and his ties to the main conflict. My Adventures with Superman perfectly balances the villain of the week with long form storytelling. It helps keep you in the moment while also building to the bigger picture. Purists might not like the takes on the different characters, but it all adds to the originality of the series. For the most part, it does retain the spirit of these heroes and villains.
The action sequences are beautifully animated, smooth, and exciting. Who doesn’t want to see Superman tangle with giant robots or supervillains. Furthermore, the series really knows how to build the suspense when its hero is trying to save the everyday citizens. You’ll be on the edge of your seat at times even if you know the outcome. What elevates all the scenes to another level is the accompanying orchestral score. It provides a cinematic feel while also enhancing the appropriate emotions of the moment. The music helps create an immersive experience.
During the early part of My Adventures with Superman, I didn’t think Quaid was the best choice for the lead. Based off of his previous roles in The Boys and Star Trek: Lower Decks, he could nail the dorky and awkward side of a young Clark, but I had reservations on whether he could pull off the Man of Steel.
However, as the season progressed, like Clark on the series, the actor grew into becoming a superhero. He embodies the boy scout side of Superman, and even when the opposing characters make it difficult, Superman still always makes the morally right decision. To a lesser extent, I felt the same way with Chris Parnell voicing Agent Slade Wilson, but the character doesn’t have as much screen time.
Overall, My Adventures with Superman is a fresh and youthful take on the character that effectively blends levity, character development, and action.
The two-episode series premiere of My Adventures with Superman airs Thursday, June 6, at midnight on Adult Swim.
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