Superboy #201
Published and © by DC, March-April 1974
Title: “The Betrayer From Beyond”
Synopsis: The Legion holds tryouts for new members, but it’s a former applicant – Erg-1 – who arrives to save the day.
Writer: Cary Bates
Artist: Dave Cockrum
Review: Erg-1 – an energy being better known as Wildfire – returns from the grave as a deus ex machina device. But Cary Bates uses it to deliver a solid story, one that brings an exciting new Legionnaire into the fold. Art wise, Dave Cockrum continues to put his stamp on the Legion.
•••
Title: “The Silent Death”
Synopsis: Dream Girl is certain a Legionnaire will die in the club’s Monitor Room, but her vision isn’t sure exactly who.
Writer: Cary Bates
Artist: Dave Cockrum
Review: A slight story illustrating how each Legionnaire is important. Kudos to Dave Cockrum for making Karate Kid actually look Asian.
Grade (for the entire issue): B+
Second opinion: “Some pyrotechnic Dave Cockrum action.” – Martin Lock, Comic Media News #12, March 1974 … “Very pleasant.” – Howard Stangroom, Comics Unlimited #39, September 1976 … Recommended by The Slings & Arrows Comic Guide (second edition), 2003.
Cool factor: Hey there, Wildfire. Welcome to the Legion!
Not-so-cool factor: Infectious Lass. Porcupine Pete. Oh, those silly Subs.
Notable: Wildfire joins the Legion.
Collector’s note: According to MyComicShop.com, there is a Mark Jewelers variant of this issue.
Character quotable: “All my life, I’ve dreamed of being a Legionnaire!” – Infectious Lass (you go, girl – keep that dream alive!)
Editor’s note: This review was originally published by Comics Bronze Age on Jan. 15, 2010.
