Countdown to BvS: 6 iconic covers of Batman and Superman

From the golden age to the modern age of comics, Batman and Superman has shared the limelight on the covers of our favorite titles. To hype it up for all of you, we’re 6 days away from the worldwide theatrical release of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and the boys of The Dark Knight Ph have gathered 6 of the most iconic comic book covers featuring our favorite Boy Scout and Caped Crusader.

Note: We did not include the BvS variants.

6. Dark Knight III: The Master Race #1 (Midtown Comics Variant by Greg Capullo)

Right in the face! This cover is a remake of one of the most legendary fights in comic book history. As you may all know, the basis for this piece came from the fight scene in The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller. The unforgettable dialogue of Batman, while kicking Superman’s butt, is truly one of those moments that would run a tingle down your spine. Greg Capullo did not disappoint with his own version of “the boot to the face.” This was released last November 2015, released exclusively by Midtown Comics. Look ma, Superman bleeds.

5. Batman/Superman #1 by Jae Lee (New 52)

Talk about Dawn of Justice right here, man! This cover has a bit of Gothic into it, perfect for the setting of Gotham City, and the towering Supes on top with the blue sky background complimented the, otherwise, dark and gritty Batman and his posse of robotic heads. The story shows how Batman and Superman first met….again. Jae Lee impressed all of us with his interior art on this issue. You have to get it to see. ;) This was released last June 2013.

4. Batman #612 by Jim Lee

“Deep down, Clark is essentially a good person…and deep down, I’m not.” –Batman

This infamous cover by the one and only Jim Lee, shows a mind controlled Superman tripping on Batman. Haha! Coming from Part 5 of the revolutionary “Hush” storyline, this cover is among the ones that show Batman is still a man, or rather, a speck in Superman’s godliness. God vs Man, Day vs Night, blah blah blah! This was first published on February 2003.

3. Batman #608b and Superman #204 by Jim Lee

This is another one from Jim Lee. One of the best connecting covers there is, sort. These covers are 2 years apart. Batman 608b (For those who asks what the “b” stands for, this is the second cover of this issue. A variant, if you will), is the first part of the Hush storyline; Superman 204 is part one of the “For Tomorrow” storyline. Day vs Night anyone?

Batman 608b was first published on October 2002; Superman 204 was on June 2004.

2. Superman #76 by Curt Swan

From the year 1952 comes the first ever team-up of Batman and Superman. Can you believe it? People from that era are probably going nuts seeing these 2 heroes share a story in a comic book. This was the first of many stories featuring our favorite heroes. Fun Fact: In this story, Batman and Superman uncover each others secret identity, and the rest, as they say, is history. First published on May 1952. (64 years later, they will share the silver screen, oh glory days!)

1.The Dark Knight Returns #4: The Dark Knight Falls by Frank Miller

Of course, our list wouldn’t be complete without this iconic cover from one of the most important Batman story in history, The Dark Knight Returns #4. From the man himself, Frank Miller, we get to see an armored Batman taking on Superman. Need I say more on why this made the top list? The hype is real, ladies and gents! Batman vs Superman is happening!

It’s finally happening. What was once just a comic book cover of Batman and Superman fighting is now a reality for all fanboys out there! On March 26, 2016, see history unfold and bask in the glory of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice!

Hit the comments for your favorite covers featuring Batman and Superman.

Batman v. Superman spread by James Raiz

James Raiz, known as The Box Office Artist in social network communities, came up with this amazing spread in anticipation of Batman v. Superman. This artwork was traditionally drawn and was  colored digitally. This glorious depiction of the greatest gladiator match in the history of the world culminates the excitement for DC fanboys here in the Philippines. Just as we have thought that our excitement reached plateau, James releases this image.

For those who would want to watch James' time-lapse video drawing, click here to direct you to his Youtube page. Also, please don't forget to click the subscribe button. James has a lot of awesome videos and we're pretty sure there will be more! But for the convenience of everyone, here's an embedded video of his work. Enjoy! :)

Hey, James, thanks for the special mention :)

Countdown to BvS: 7 Batman v Superman must-have toys

One cannot deny the impact of having toy lines that intertwine with a movie’s imminent release. As far as Batman v Superman is concerned, toy companies did not hesitate to acquire rights to release their own versions of the 2 iconic heroes.

We are 7 days away from the release of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. So, The Dark Knight Ph gives you the TOP 7 Batman v Superman Toys you must have:

7. Funko Pop Movies: Batman v Superman

The Funko craze is real and DC Comics is caught in it. This Batman v Superman 2-pack Funko Pop was released at the San Diego Comic Con 2015. Lucky fans were able to bag this beauty for only $25 at the con. However, having only released a limited number of these bad boys as a SDCC 2015 Exclusive, at the same day of its release the price skyrocketed (and literally, at that) to around $150-$200 (that’s roughly about Php7,500 – Php10,000). Luckily, Toys R’ Us released their own version of the 2-pack exclusive with a Metallic Variant, then later Funko Pop released the whole BvS line in single boxes for their original SRP $10 (Php450 – Php550).

6. Multiverse Batman

Mattel has been releasing a Multiverse line for DC Comics in recent years and Batman v Superman is no exception. Releasing these 6” figures of our favorite Trinity in the upcoming movie. Batman has 2 versions of this figure, a normal Batsuit and the Armored Batman. Amazon will be releasing an exclusive wherein the Armored Batman has glow-in-the-dark chest, right hand and eyes (Kryptonite, anyone?). The Amazon Exclusive would coust around $30 + shipping (Roughly, Php1500 + shipping) and the normal variants would cost around $15 (Php800).

5. Lego Batman v Superman sets

In December 2015, Lego announced 3 new sets for their Batman v Superman line. 

The first set, The Sky-High Battle, features the Batwing, Lex Luthor’s LexCorp helicopter, along with Lois Lane, Lex Luthor, Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman. The 516-piece set will cost $49.99. 

 *photo from Wall Street Journal

The Clash of the Heroes set includes Superman, Batman, a Kryptonite bazooka, and a rotating, exploding Bat-Signal. The 90-piece set will cost $12.99. 

                                                    *photo from Wall Street Journal

The Kryptonite Interception set features Batman, two LexCorp henchmen, a forklift for Kryptonite, and the Batmobile. The 300-piece set will cost $29.99.

 *photo from Wall Street Journal

4. Cosbaby Figures Batman v Superman

Coming from the infamous toy line from our neighbors in Hong Kong comes this new babies (see what I did there?) that packs a punch almost as hard as their 1/6 scale counterparts….the COSBABY Figurines have arrived! These cute little collectibles stands at 3.75”, has no articulation at all, but who cares? They’re compact, they’re cute, and they’re babies doing Cosplay. What more can you ask for? These babies comes in a number of variants, as well. They will also release an Angry Red Eyed Superman, a Grimacing Armored Batman and an Armored Batman that lights up.

The Cosbaby BvS line comprises of a total of 6 figures: Superman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Batman, Armored Batman and Knightmare Batman. Priced at around $100 per set (Php5,000, more or less).

3. Rock ‘em Sock ‘em Robots

If you’re feeling nostalgic, then this classic from Mattel might do the job. Rock ‘em Sock ‘em Batman v Superman may just be one of those underhyped toys in the market right now. The premise of the toy is simple, press the buttons until one of them gets knocked off the platform. Play best out of 3 and find out #WhoWillWin.

Priced at Php1,300 – Php1,500.

2. Air Hogs Batmobile

Your dreams of driving a Batmobile is now within reach. Well, sort of. Air Hogs, the leading company that brings your remote controlled cars, has just released their first ever Batmobile, with none other than the Batmobile from Batman v Superman. The metal brush finish on this bad boy brings an authentic look to it, like it just burst out of the screen, with LED head lights and tail lights that fire up every time you throttle. One of the best features of this Batmobile would be its USB rechargeable feature, so say bye bye to buying separate batteries. It comes with a simple remote that makes “driving” easier. Priced at $60 (Php2,600 – Php3,000).

1.Hot Toys BvS Line

Hot Toys has been on the lead for a quite number of years now. Their take on the authentic and realistic look of their collection would, without a doubt, put it on anyone’s top list of BvS toys. From the smallest detail to the costume and articulation, Hot Toys has really perfected and changed the landscape of toy collecting everywhere. So far, we’ve seen photos of Armored Batman, Superman, Batman, Knightmare Batman and Wonder Woman in 1/6 scales.

Priced at around $250 - $350, these are just speculation as there’s no announcement from Hot Toys about the price for this series.

Special Mentions:

Jada Metals Batman v Superman (Batmobile and 4-pack)

We just couldn’t get enough of this new Batmobile. Jada Metals released a BvS line of their own. The Batmobile Model Die Cast Kit is really impressive when it comes to details. Some assembly is required, but that just adds to the fun of owning this brilliant piece. Jada Metals also released 4-inch die cast figures of Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, Knightmare Batman, Unmasked Batman and a Batman with removable Armor.

Batman Voice Changer Helmet

Another one from Mattel would be this Batman helmet from his Armor that actually changes your voice! Need I say more?! IT’S A FREAKIN’ BATMAN HELMET WITH VOICE CHANGER! You could say “Do you bleed?” on days on end without tiring of this, man. Seriously! Price at around Php900 - Php1,100.

Countdown to BvS: 8 Times They Couldn't Get Along

Its a fact that Batffleck and Supervill will slug it out in the movie. But this is not new for the World's Finest! These two love birds have been throwing jabs at each other in the comicbooks ever since time and immemorial. Yes, you also get the occasional haymakers, but at the end of the day neither can pull the trigger and kill the other.

Their team-ups are considered to be extraordinary but deep down, their principles are conflicting. This strife between the Day and Night is the usual cause of their scuffle. Over the years, there are tons of epic fights between the two. Here's another countdown for you, Bat-fanatics! The greatest gladiator match in the history of comicbooks!

8. Superman: Red Son

 

This is an elseworld story where a Russian Batman trapped a Soviet-influenced Superman in a room filled with solar lamps which is identical to the radiation of Krypton's Red Sun. Superman was baffled. He thought Batman grew stronger. He didn't know that the radiation was making him weak. Then Boom-Pow-Biff! He kicked him right in his balls!

7. Justice League: Origins (new 52)

Years from now, people are going to talk about this encounter. Depends on how the movie is going to pull it off (since Snyder is very vocal that he took some fight scenes from this book), this can probably be one of those comicbooks that will appreciate in value. The fight between the two is a little one-sided. Batman tried every trick under his sleeve, but it doesn't seem to affect Superman.

6. Batman: Endgame

This isn't really a Batman vs Superman match up per se but this is a very brutal match between The Justice Buster and the Joker-infected Superman. Snyder and Capullo payed a lot of homages in this fight scene--from Red Son, to Luthor, to The Dark Knight Rises. This is one of those fights that people will remember forever.

5. Batman: Hush

This is probably the most iconic Batman vs Superman battle in the history of comicbooks. Every fan knows this panel. Its one of those "I always have a plan" moments for Batman. Seeing that Superman is under Ivy's spell, Bats lured him in a place where he set up to defeat Superman.

4. Luthor: Man of Steel

One of the reasons why Batman is still alive is because Superman lets him. Com'on lets be true here, guys. Superman can easily break Batman into pieces. It is respect for Batman and his humanity which prevents him from doing so. But just in case you're wondering how Batman will fair in a fight against a no holds barred match against Superman, this is the book for you!

3. Superman: Sacrifice (Countdown to Infinite Crisis)

Ow man, this will be brutal for Batman fans. I can't believe I'm actually putting this here. More so at #3! But yeah, impartiality calls for it. Superman's sanity has been questioned by Lois Lane and the League. In his vision, he sees Darkseid threatening Lois. At this instant, he brutally beat "Darkseid". Unfortunately, Superman's vision of "Darkseid" is actually Batman. To make matters worse, this was one of those rare moments where Batman was caught off guard in his Batcave.

2. The Dark Knight Strikes Again

You think the last one was bad? Don't worry. The Dark Knight got his revenge in TDKSA. Somehow, Batman was able to lure Superman into the Batcave. And in that encounter, Batman released a barrage of tricks against the Man of Steel. Again, as a Batman fan, this is one of those moments where you'll feel bad for the Big Blue. And that line at the end is savage: "I'm done talking, get out of my cave."

1. The Dark Knight Returns

No words are needed here. Let me just quote a couple of lines from the book.

"I want you to remember, Clark... in all the years to come... in your most private moments... I want you to remember... my hand... at your throat... I want you to remember... the one man who beat you."

Countdown to BvS: 9 Licensed Merchandise to Collect

It's quite amusing that its not just the geek community who's excited for Batman v. Superman. For the past few weeks, we've been seeing local corporations jumping into the hype with the release of their BvS licensed products. Every new advertisement surely made us more excited for the movie release. From radio stations to billboards along highways, it is evident that everyone is all in with BvS. It is to no surprise that these local corporations (or locally operated corporations) are giving us the merchandises that the fandom deserves. So without further a do, here are some of things you can buy to help the local economy (well... not really hehe but its still a good way to support these corporations who made us smile with their promotions).

1. Honey Star cereals BvS Family Game

They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. These Honey Star cereals from Nestle will surely instill family values to the kid and at the same time, you enjoy a great cup of cereal in the morning. Start your day right, get your Honey Stars!

  

2. Petron Gadget Collection

Before going to the mall, make sure to gas up at Petron stations. For every P500 worth of gas purchase, you can get any of the gadget collection for P200. You have 4 toys to choose from. The armored Batman is a night lamp, Batffleck is a USB hub, Superman a digital clock, and Wonder Woman a multi-charger. These are probably the most famous local merchandise among fans.

3. KFC Bucket Meal BvS Tumblers

For only P620 you get the Batman-Superman face-off bucket. And if you just add P35, you get the limited edition BvS tumbler. The bucket meal comes with 8 pieces of chicken, 4 rice, 4 drinks, 2 spaghetti, and a big bowl of the good ol' gravy! If you ask me, the food alone is worth that money. The BvS merchandise is the consolation prize (or is it the other way around?).

4. B'lue flavored water

These bottles are awesome to collect. Probably after eating in KFC, you'd like to drink some flavored water, then B'lue is probably for you. Their BvS line comes with 3 flavors: Calamansi, Lychee, and Orange. The flavors are in no way describes the characters but for P25, not only do you feel fully alive, you will also feel like a hero.

5. SM Cinema hexagon toy collection

Remember to buy your movie tickets at SM cinema houses. You can purchase these hexagon toys when you purchase a snack-merchandise combo meal. Heck, you're probably still full from your lunch, but you probably wouldn't mind eating that hotdog for these babies.

6. Filbar's BvS shirts

While you're already at the mall, you probably would want to check these BvS shirts from Filbar's. And yes, these are licensed materials. Also, make sure to ask the sales ladies regarding their other BvS related toys and comics. They have tons of awesome merchandise.

7. SM Teen's shirts

Also drop by SM Department store. They have licensed BvS shirts which were designed by the team of Yanna Tan (the girlfriend of Peejay Catacutan, one of our favorite local artists).

8. Penshoppe shirts

This is probably one of the best collaborations for BvS. Their wide variety of style makes these BvS shirts amazing. From flipflops to Jackets, they have it!

9. Axis watches

These watches are a good alternative to the expensive BvS Police watches. For P4995, you can get any of these awesome timepiece from Axis! This watch is probably for you! Get them and start your own countdown to BvS!