DC Comics Presents #34
Published and © by DC, June 1981
Title: “The Beast-Man That Shouted ‘Hate’ at the Heart of the U.N.”
Synopsis: When villains from different universes team up, Superman and Captain Marvel require an assist from the extended Marvel Family.
Writer (plot assist): Gerry Conway
Writer: Roy Thomas
Penciler: Rich Buckler
Inker: Dick Giordano
Review: When reading Roy Thomas’ stories during the Bronze Age, it could sometimes feel as though he was more interested in writing for Little Him than Little Me. The writer’s love of all things Golden Age is legendary, and he’s clearly enjoying getting to play with the Marvel Family characters here. But, much as with DC Comics Presents #33 (see review), this issue offers little in the way of modern tone or serious stakes. Silliness abounds: Mr. Mind, “the world’s wickedest worm”? The powerless Uncle Marvel? Captain Marvel Bunny? It’s almost enough to make readers root for King Kull!
Grade: C
Second opinion: “An inventive, energetic exploration.” – Dale Luciano, The Comics Journal #64, July 1981
Cool factor: Rick Buckler turns in another inspired art job, and his pencils pair nicely with Dick Giordano’s inks.
Not-so-cool factor: The return of Hoppy the Marvel Bunny. Really?
Collector’s note: According to the Grand Comics Database, there is a Mark Jewelers variant of this issue.
Character quotable: “This ‘Big Red Cheese’ is feeling downright frisky!” – Captain Marvel (umm, eww)
Editor’s note: This review was written Oct. 4, 2023.
