The Man of Steel takes a tour of America

"Superman" No. 701 marks J. Michael Straczynski's first full issue on the book and as Superman begins his walk across America, all indications here point toward it being a memorable journey.

While many immediately dismissed the story once it was announced, it is clear from this issue that JMS has a plan for the Man of Steel and is executing it brilliantly.

One of the criticisms of the story line is that people are not really that different in Chicago or Seattle. But what makes the book compelling is Straczynski's reinforcing the idea that there are universal aspects to the human condition, but there are also different cultures in cities like Philadelphia and Boston-things that make them unique.

Issue No. 701 is extra special because it has the Man of Steel beginning his journey in Philly.

While there are the expected confrontations with drug dealers for example, Straczynski excels at depicting Superman in quieter moments.

Of course, he has to order a cheesesteak which brings up how he really needs someplace to store money on his costume. Straczynski takes a moment that could have been tired and corny and makes it memorable.

There are many other small moments sprinkled throughout and they are a refreshing change from "slugfest-of-the-month" stories. They each reveal a Superman who is strong, confident, noble and unmistakably American.

Straczynski's approach is both appropriate and funny.

That anyone would criticize his Superman as "out of character," lends credence to the writer's assertion that DC's icons have been "concretized" by fans and creators to the point where people are afraid to do anything fresh with them.

As this issue shows, Straczynski is not. He has the symbol for "The American Way" speaking philosophically and talking about historic figures like Henry Thoreau. It is different but in the end it not only fits the character but makes him more interesting.

Comics Guy will be following every step on this road trip.

A Cross Gen comeback

Comics Guy speculated months ago that Disney's acquisition of Marvel meant there was a real possibility that some beloved concepts from now-defunct Cross Gen-which Disney had snapped up years ago-would once again see the light of day in comics form.

Well, last month at Comic-Con, one of the more overlooked announcements was Marvel announcing they will do just that.

While Marvel's Arune Singh stated "it's a bit too early to talk about specific series right now" it has been made clear the only questions regarding the Cross Gen properties are "When?" and "Which titles?" and no longer "If?"

Comics Guy is personally hoping to see "Kiss Kiss Bang Bang" again-and will keep you updated as more details emerge.

'Fathom' to tackle oil spill

Since the ocean is so central to the world of "Fathom," publisher Aspen felt it could not ignore the Gulf Oil spill-and is releasing a 10-page digital comic to deal with it creatively and raise funds to benefit the clean-up.

"Like everyone else, we saw what was happening with the Gulf of Mexico, and since Fathom is based in an underwater world, it seemed like a perfect fit for us," said Aspen editor-in-chief Vince Hernandez in a statement. "We wanted to not only talk about the disaster in the comic, but we wanted to benefit the cause. So all proceeds raised by Aspen with this digital comic will go to the National Wildlife Federation."

"Without giving away too much of the story, it will center on the wildlife affected by the spill," he said. "Aspen Matthews, the main Fathom hero, shows up and takes action when she sees what's happening."

"I really wanted it to be a story that not only comic fans would like, but even people who don't know the property could check it out and figure out what's going on. It's very reader friendly," Hernandez said. "I wanted to focus on more on the recovery efforts, even with how we're using the money it raises. I didn't want to get into any of the controversy, but instead tell a story that's more about empowerment and helping the effort. I wanted to make sure all the sales go to a cause that's worthy."

'Ultimate' indeed

"Ultimate Spider-Man" will be hitting screens soon as the latest animated TV incarnation of everyone's favorite Web-Head.

Yet the talent already assembled makes it obvious Marvel is trying to have their new series live up to it's title.

As if having Brian Michael Bendis, the lone voice behind "Ultimate Spider-Man" on board wasn't enough to get fans excited, word came this week that Paul Dini, who worked on "Batman" The Animated Series," is on board.

Toss in other talented members of the creative team like comic super scrbes Joe Kelly, Joe Casey and Steven Seagle, and it is looking virtually impossible for this series to be anything but awesome.

Latino Review has confirmed rumors Comics Guy first disclosed months ago - Warner Bros. is so confident in the success of next year's "Green Lantern" that two sequels are already in development.

The plan is to release one film next year, one in 2012 and one in 2013, meaning a "Lord of the Rings"-esque pace of three films over three years. This has fans excited since Warner Bros. is obviously confident in what they have. It also means there should be a chance to explore new and numerous members of the Green Lantern universe onscreen and that they will be explored in depth.

Comics Guy feel this is is nothing but good news and is excited for it all to start. "Green Lantern" is scheduled to hit screens on June 17, 2011.

E-mail comicsguy@phillynews.com.