The Way of Perfect Superhero TV: Looking back on one of Superman’s best adventures

The Way of Perfect Superhero TV: Looking back on one of Superman's best adventures

As a seasoned gamer and ardent fan of Superman: The Animated Series, I can confidently say that “The Way of All Flesh” is undoubtedly one of the most gripping episodes in the series. The intricate narrative weaving around Lex Luthor, John Corben (Metallo), and the invincible Superman makes for a captivating watch that truly showcases the strength of these characters.


“In the seventh episode of the inaugural season of ‘Superman: The Animated Series’, titled ‘The Way of All Flesh’, Superman confronts familiar adversaries, Lex Luthor and John Corben. This particular storyline revolves around John Corben’s transformation into Metallo, a cyborg powered by Kryptonite and harboring a deep-seated desire to eliminate Superman and retaliate against Lex Luthor for his metamorphosis.”

Initially, Corben functioned as a hired gun working under the command of Lex Luthor. However, Luthor conducted an experiment on him that transformed him into a character resembling the Terminator’s villainous role. Metallo stands out among other villains due to his dual enmity towards Superman and Luthor

Superman: The Animated Series showcases Metallo’s strength as a villain

“What makes ‘The Way Of All Flesh’ an engaging TV episode is that Superman encounters an adversary capable of causing his demise – Metallo, whose Kryptonite heart poses a genuine danger to the hero. Unlike foes like Bizarro or Lobo, Metallo cannot be defeated through sheer physical strength. This necessitates a different strategy from Superman, as he must find alternative methods to counter this opponent.”

In a rare predicament, Lex Luthor stands as the grand antagonist while simultaneously being Metallo’s potential target for revenge. Superman cannot definitively prove his role in creating Metallo, leaving Luthor unpunished, yet exposed to Metallo’s fury directly

Without a doubt, Metallo stands out as the pivotal development in this episode. He made subsequent appearances throughout the series, testing Superman and his companions with innovative challenges. The character grapples with the notion of losing his human identity, which becomes particularly evident when he transforms into a cyborg. This change robbed him of his senses, leaving him incapable of touch, smell, or taste, ultimately driving him mad

Metallo serves as a pitiful character, battling not only Superman, but also his inner turmoil. His inability to regain humanity persists throughout the series, and he remains an artificial being. Contrary to popular belief, even though Superman hails from Krypton, he demonstrates more human qualities than either Luthor or Metallo. This is evident when he rescues Luthor from Metallo, showcasing his altruistic nature that solidifies his status as a revered and adored hero

Regardless of the type of superhero tale you’re seeking, you can expect to discover it within “The Way of All Flesh.”

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2024-09-04 20:08

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