In Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2024 Annual, readers are treated to four comic stories that are somewhat disconnected from the main storyline of the title. The annual features various writers, artists, and colorists who bring their unique styles to each story. The first story, titled “IMPeriled,” written by Mark Waid and Cullen Bunn, and illustrated by Edwin Galmon, takes place in the fifth dimension where Mr. Mxyzptlk and Bat-Mite try to organize a meeting of the “Just-Us League” but chaos ensues when the imps start battling each other. As the fight escalates, Mr. Mxyzptlk realizes that a dark storm is approaching, but it’s too late to warn the other imps. The story ends with a cliffhanger, indicating that it will continue in Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #25. The art starts off light and cute but becomes more action-packed as the battle unfolds.
The second story, titled “The Ties That Bind,” written by Dennis Culver and illustrated by Travis Mercer, follows Metamorpho as he embarks on a mission to Markovia to retrieve the “Hammer of Vulcan” from a hidden temple. It is revealed that Metamorpho’s father, Montana Mason, is also in the temple and wants to prevent the hammer from falling into the wrong hands. The story ends with Metamorpho allowing his father to take the hammer, much to the dismay of Simon Stagg. The story feels rushed, and the art, particularly Metamorpho’s design, is a bit disappointing.
The third story, titled “Sting like a Bee,” written by Stephanie Williams and illustrated by Rosi Kampe, focuses on Bumblebee’s efforts to expose a local company’s harmful practices. Bumblebee discovers that the company is spying on residents and creating dangerous products. She takes this information to the media, and justice is served. The story serves as an introduction to Bumblebee and is nicely paced with beautiful coloring.
The fourth and final story, titled “Time Check,” written by Christopher Cantwell and illustrated by Jorge Fornes, features the Challengers of the Unknown investigating a secret facility. The story revolves around the concept of time and the characters being trapped in a loop, reliving their deaths. The psychedelic art adds to the sense of unease and uncertainty. This story may not resonate with all readers.
Overall, Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2024 Annual offers a mix of different stories with varying degrees of success.
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