Men of Steel

Legends of Dead Earth: Supergirl with Keith Lehtinen

This week on Men of Steel, Case and Jmike are joined by Keith Lehtinen to explore the Legends of Dead Earth DC Annual featuring the memory of Supergirl. We dig into this bleak future tale, how Supergirl fits into DC's long tradition of alternate timelines, and what this story reveals about legacy when hope is in short supply. Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia Men of Steel Full Episode Originally aired: January 9, 2026 Edited by Sophia Ricciardi Scored by Geoff Moonen Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4   Outline Introduction and Context of Legends of Dead Earth Supergirl Annual (00:00 - 10:14) Introduction to the Men of Steel podcast and guest Keith Letinen, comic book expert Overview of the Legends of Dead Earth 1996 annuals by DC Comics focusing on futuristic mythologizing of modern DC characters Analysis of Chapter One: "The Surrogate" (10:14 - 19:11) Written by Chuck Dixon with artwork by Dick Giordano and George Perez (noted for quality) The story highlights hope through flashbacks to youth and idealization of Supergirl as an icon, not a specific person Analysis of Chapter Two: "Legend Lives On"/"Shootout at Ice Flats" (19:11 - 28:37) The second story (credits order error noted), written by Barbara and Carl Kesel, is a Twilight Zone-esque tale featuring space pirates who fear the myth of Supergirl, although she doesn't appear Discussion of how the story parodies and distorts superhero lore, especially with references to "The Crisis" and Supergirl's berserker phase Analysis of Chapter Three: "Shootout at Ice Flats" (28:37 - 38:03) Written by Joe Lansdale and Neil Barrett Jr., art by Robert Turkish Taranishi, the story is a sci-fi Western featuring a sheriff who resembles Supergirl The story closes with hope passing to a younger generation via the amulet's gift Overall Impressions and Discussion of the Annual (38:03 - 47:44) Hosts discuss whether the annual was worth the 1996 cover price of $2.95, agreeing that the package was fun and had variety making it worth the price Comparative recommendation: for new fans, alternative modern stories such as Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow and some Future State runs recommended instead Conclusion and Promotions (47:44 - 56:39) Guest Keith Letinen highlights his podcast We Have Issues that delivers fast, positive comic reviews especially useful for staying current with many comics out there Tease of upcoming Legends of Dead Earth issues to be discussed in future episodes  

Episode 160 - World's Finest (1999) Part 1 with Alex and Amanda Ramsey

We're joined by Alex and Amanda Ramsey from Night of the Batmen for Part 1 of a crossover discussion on the 1999 World's Finest series! We dig into Superman and Batman at the turn of the millennium, the tone of late-'90s DC, and why this era of team-ups still sparks debate. Part 2 continues on Night of the Batmen—so make sure to catch both sides of the conversation! Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia Men of Steel Full Episode Originally aired: December 19, 2025 Edited by Sophia Ricciardi Scored by Geoff Moonen Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4 PODCAST SHOWS: ▶ Men Of Steel - https://www.certainpov.com/men-of-steel​  FOLLOW US: ▶ Twitter: @certainpovmedia @menofsteelpod ▶ Instagram: @certainpovmedia Outline Introduction and Overview of 1999 World's Finest Series (00:00 - 10:30) Introduction of guests Alex and Amanda Ramsey from 'Night of the Batman' podcast. Overview of the 1999 World's Finest series by Karl Kesel with multiple pencillers. Detailed Story and Timeline Context (10:30 - 20:57) Discussion on the timeline placement post-Crisis on Infinite Earths. Comments on character design consistency, particularly Lex Luthor's unusual white hair color. Character Dynamics in Early Story Arc (20:57 - 31:44) Breakdown of the opening issue where twin criminals, each matched with one hero. Exploration of 1990s Batman's mystique as an urban legend. ️ Political Themes and Writing Style (31:44 - 41:58) The politically nuanced yet awkward portrayal of villains such as Eric Stang. Discussion of Bruce Wayne's wealth and its narrative challenge. Arkham Asylum Story and Supporting Cast Developments (41:58 - 52:29) Examination of the second issue where Superman infiltrates Arkham Asylum. Introduction of supporting characters such as Batgirl and a vigilante called Thorn. Inner Gang Story and Cadmus Mention (52:29 - 01:02:43) Discussion of Intergang's involvement and its footing in Superman's rogues gallery. The unveiling of Cadmus as a covert organization investigated by Batman. ‍‍ Depth in Supporting Cast and Justice League Context (01:02:43 - 01:13:20) Acknowledge that Dick Grayson as Robin is established. Commentary on the limited but effective use of Alfred as Bruce Wayne's humanizing influence. Reception and Art Appreciation (01:13:20 - 01:23:39) Positive response towards art style, particularly Dave Taylor's pencils. Reflections on corporate influences on DC comics continuity and storytelling quality. Final Reflections on First Five Issues (01:23:39 - 01:34:06) Amanda's reception: lower enthusiasm for first two issues, appreciation for character development. J. Mike's reception: Enjoys dynamic between Batman and Superman. Wrap-Up and Show Promotion (01:34:06 - 01:53:35) Encouragement to listen to the back five issues discussion on 'Night of the Batman' podcast. Promotion of social media, Discord server, and Patreon.

Episode 159 - World's Finest (1990) with Kris Ingersoll

This week on Men of Steel, Case and Jmike are joined by Kris Ingersoll (Media/Lit, Batman By The Numbers) to talk about the 1990 World's Finest miniseries! We dig into how this story redefined the dynamic between Superman and Batman, the tone of early '90s DC, and why this team-up still holds up decades later. #MenOfSteelPod #WorldsFinest #Superman #Batman #DCComics #ComicsPodcast #KrisIngersoll Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia Men of Steel Full Episode Originally aired: December 5, 2025 Edited by Sophia Ricciardi Scored by Geoff Moonen Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4 PODCAST SHOWS: ▶ Men Of Steel - https://www.certainpov.com/men-of-steel​  FOLLOW US: ▶ Twitter: @certainpovmedia @menofsteelpod ▶ Instagram: @certainpovmedia Outline ️ Introduction to Podcast and Guests (00:00 - 02:51) Hosts Case Aiken and Jmike Folson introduce the episode and guest Kris Ingersoll, who runs a Batman podcast and co-hosts Media Lit podcast. Topic: The 1990 DC Comics miniseries World's Finest by Dave Gibbons and Steve Rood. Contextual Background of the 1990 World's Finest (02:51 - 05:34) The miniseries releases shortly after Crisis on Infinite Earths and John Byrne's Man of Steel reboot (1986). Post-Dark Knight Returns, Batman and Superman's relationship had changed, characterized by distance rather than camaraderie. ️ Plot Overview (05:34 - 08:14) Lex Luthor and Joker team up to take over Gotham and Metropolis with intertwined but largely separate schemes. Batman and Superman investigate, culminating in events involving an orphanage, a nuclear reactor, and city-wide explosions. Decompression and Story Structure Critique (08:14 - 11:34) Discussion of story pacing issues: The narrative is elongated with side elements (e.g., orphan kids) that do not cohesively tie in. Emphasis on character moments over tight plotting. Initial Impressions and Artistic Elements (11:34 - 17:59) Chris praises the visual storytelling and art, referencing the use of parallel imagery and distinctive flashback watercolor style. Noted the deliberate design choices to echo Silver Age and Max Fleischer era Superman and early Batman. ‍️ Characterization of Villains and Supporting Cast (17:59 - 30:39) Joker portrayed in a "zany," less menacing mode, more a prankster than murderously malicious. Lex Luthor features a robotic hand and operates like a mob boss, balancing businessman and villain traits. Character Dynamics and Relationships (30:39 - 40:21) Lois Lane and Bruce Wayne's interactions highlight mutual suspicion and gradual respect. Batman and Superman's knowledge of each other's secret identities is subtle initially, revealed more overtly in third issue. ️ Themes and Continuity Notes (40:21 - 50:27) Orphanage is a thematic midpoint between Gotham and Metropolis, symbolizing shared orphan backgrounds of Batman, Superman, and villain. The book emphasizes orphans and legacy but does not fully develop these thematic elements. Technical and Artistic Praise (50:27 - 52:58) Art and character design praised for classic yet fresh look; great use of tableau pages showing Gotham and Metropolis. Noted the Batmobile's stylish design and Batman's athletic, sleek physique. Character in Action: Batman and Superman (52:58 - 59:55) Batman characterized as efficient, brutal, and action-focused. His use of Batarangs and disguises recognized as authentic. Superman rendered as powerful but more grounded Burn era 'cop,' balancing investigative journalism and heroic strength. Artistic and Thematic Highlights (59:55 - 01:09:46) Memorable moments include Superman carrying a nuclear reactor into space to save Metropolis. Subtle details such as Clark Kent's mannerisms and investigative approach noted. Overall Assessment and Legacy (01:09:46 - 01:14:36) The miniseries serves as a valuable snapshot of Batman and Superman dynamics post-Crisis and pre-mid-90s crossovers. While the narrative is considered "vibes-over-story," the series offers essential character moments, iconic imagery, and era-specific continuity. Conclusion and Promotions (01:14:36 - 01:19:44) Guests share social media handles and podcast info. Hosts plug "Trade School" podcast and Certain POV Discord for further comic discussions.

Episode 158 - Naomi

No guests this time — just Case and Jmike diving into Naomi, both the first comic volume by Brian Michael Bendis, David F. Walker, and Jamal Campbell, and the CW pilot it inspired! We unpack her origins, the themes of identity and legacy, and how this new hero fits into the Superman-adjacent universe. Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia Men of Steel Full Episode Originally aired: November 21, 2025 Edited by Sophia Ricciardi Scored by Geoff Moonen Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4 PODCAST SHOWS: ▶ Men Of Steel - https://www.certainpov.com/men-of-steel​  FOLLOW US: ▶ Twitter: @certainpovmedia @menofsteelpod ▶ Instagram: @certainpovmedia  Outline ️ Introduction and Topic Setup (00:00 - 10:36) Discussion opens with commentary on a break-in scenario as a humorous analogy. Hosts introduce the podcast episode focused on Naomi, a comic series and its TV adaptation. Comic Book Deep Dive, Part 1 (10:38 - 20:37) Case shares his late discovery of Naomi via Superman comics. Discussion of typical Brian Michael Bendis storytelling traits and Naomi's origin story. Comic Book Deep Dive, Part 2 (20:37 - 29:58) Discussion of the comic's minimal action narrative; Naomi only fights once near the end. Critique of the pacing and suggestions for narrative recap. TV Show Critique, Part 1 (29:58 - 39:35) Hosts express strong disappointment with the Naomi TV series. Exploration of key changes from comic to show, including character depth. TV Show Critique, Part 2 (39:36 - 49:32) Further criticism of the TV show's deviation from comic lore. Exploration of Naomi's 'Mary Sue' characterization and visual production issues. TV Show Critique, Part 3 and General Reflection (49:32 - 58:53) Frustration with the show's pacing and poor adaptation of comic's style. Suggestions for animated series instead of live action. Comparative Analysis and Storytelling Challenges (58:53 - 01:08:51) Reflection on comic's pacing translating into TV episodic structure. Challenges of stretching limited content to a full season. Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up (01:08:52 - 01:19:00) Overall enjoyment of the comic despite flaws and disapproval of the TV show. Hope for future projects that better capture the comic's qualities. Closing Remarks and Promotional Segment (01:19:03 - 01:27:09) Hosts encourage listeners to read the comic and promote Patreon. Plug for Case's new podcast project Trade School.

Episode 157 - Supreme: The Return with Logan Crowley

This week on Men of Steel, Case and Jmike are joined once again by Logan Crowley to dive into the back half of Alan Moore's Supreme saga — Supreme: The Return! We explore how Moore redefined heroism through metafiction, nostalgia, and some of the boldest Superman-adjacent storytelling of the '90s. Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia Men of Steel Full Episode Originally aired: November 8, 2025 Edited by Sophia Ricciardi Scored by Geoff Moonen Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4 PODCAST SHOWS: ▶ Men Of Steel - https://www.certainpov.com/men-of-steel​ FOLLOW US: ▶ Twitter: @certainpovmedia @menofsteelpod ▶ Instagram: @certainpovmedia Outline Introduction and Context Setting on Supreme Comic Series (00:00 - 10:00) Discussed the Alan Moore run on Supreme comics, focusing on the second volume, Supreme: The Return and its relation to the initial story, Supreme: The Story of the Year. Introduced guest Logan Crowley and recapped the original Story of the Year to bring listeners up to speed. Detailed Issue-by-Issue Breakdown and Analysis (10:18 - 01:56:09) Explored themes, characters, and narrative arcs of Supreme: The Return in granular detail. Noted meta-narrative techniques, cultural references, inconsistencies, tonal shifts, and artistic variations issue by issue. Art and Production Quality Discussions (15:36 - 01:24:50) Critiqued the inconsistent artwork across different issues and artists including Rick Veitch, Chris Sprouse, Jim Starlin, Ian Churchill, and Matt Smith. Noted the impact of publisher issues and artist changes on overall series cohesion and visual storytelling. Cultural and Social Commentary in the Comic (38:45 - 57:22) Discussed controversial storylines such as the Confederacy winning the Civil War due to Wild Bill Hickok's actions and its culturally sensitive implications. Analyzed dated humor and some problematic depictions reflecting 1990s sensibilities. Narrative and Thematic Observations (47:00 - 01:50:56) Discussed thematic motifs like closed time loops, meta-fictional elements, homage to classic Silver Age Superman narratives, and the contrast with other Alan Moore works like Tom Strong. Explored the balance between classic superhero optimism vs. cynicism leaking through the narrative. Discussion on Supporting Characters and Legacy (25:00 - 01:40:16) Elaborated on the roles of various supporting characters enhancing the Supreme mythos like Judy Jordan, Diana Dane, and Radar the canine hero. Highlighted the influence on later comics and the impact on the Superman archetype and analog characters. Guest Insights and Personal Reflections (00:00 - 02:30:00) Logan Crowley shared fresh perspectives, especially on the nostalgic value and unique features of Supreme. J. Mike and Case Aiken reflected on the series' strengths and weaknesses as longtime fans and comic enthusiasts. Promotions and Related Projects (02:28:00 - 02:36:00) Promoted related podcasts like Single Bound and Trade School and thanked Patreon supporters. Encouraged listeners to engage with the content and share their thoughts.