Well after only four issues here we are at the end of the first arc of what is essentially the New 52's version of the World's Finest. Some may indeed argue why it wasn't called the World's Finest anyway, but they would be missing a key premise of this series. Our main protagonists are young and relatively inexperienced, and though we may think they are at their finest at this point in their respective careers the world either fears or shuns them. So with that pondering aside let's crack on with the review. Jae Lee's artwork is, as it has consistently been, outstanding. Many have argued that it is completely unsuited for a title such as this. I would strongly disagree. Though at times it can be difficult to differentiate between the multiple Bat and Supermen, particularly in this issue when several panels contain the two worlds boy scout and detective squaring of against each other both physically and verbally,the unconventionality is intriguing. Lee's artwork, along with June Chung and Daniel Brown's colouring, evokes the youthful vibrancy I think this title aims for. I really would like to see Lee on a Bat title in the near future, if he hasn't done so already. Greg Pak also seems to be someone to watch since joining DC and may be the reason I start reading Action Comics again. Although at first glance we have the Earth Prime Batman and Superman interacting with their Earth 2 counterparts. Looking deeper and it is almost like we have new continuity engaging with old continuity. Nowhere more so than in this issue. Young men who barely know themselves getting many stern dressing downs by old men who have gained everything and seemingly have nothing to fear. We're meant to think it's the younger incarnations who are guilty of hubris, but knowledge of wider narrative helps us to realise it's the old guard's pride that will be their downfall. Pak really has nailed the characterisation in this series, leaving us intrigue by and sympathetic to these young inexperienced heroes. Personally there isn't enough boots and jeans Superman for me in the whole wide world so any is welcome, and young Batman is such an ass hole you have to love him. I would also like to take this opportunity to echo @
dcwomenkicknass 's request for a series based around Pak's Earth 2 Diana, Selina and Lois. If I were to have one criticism it is that the story; after two issues of introduction and one of exposition, wraps up too quickly. That being said the narrative feeds back into and informs Justice League and Earth 2 and it is strongly implied that this arc is just the beginning of something much, much bigger.