On the minuscule chance any of our readers aren’t aware, we’re less than three months until the release of the new the new Superman movie coming out in July. So it’s not at all surprising that DC is already getting the ball rolling this week to capitalize on the excitement for the film with the Summer of Superman initiative. Yesterday saw the release of the Summer of Superman Special one-shot that kicks off the next phase of the Man of Steel’s adventures. However, the real festivities begin tomorrow with Superman Day, the global celebration of arguably the world’s first and greatest superhero.
Debuting almost ninety years ago in the pages of Action Comics #1 by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster on April 18, 1938, it’s no exaggeration to say that the character has forever changed the world of pop culture. Fans can will be able to celebrate through various ways tomorrow.
Though filmmaker James Gunn has remained coy whether or not a new trailer will be released so soon after the recent sneak peek, it seems safe to expect some sort of new reveals from the highly-anticipated movie.
McFarlane Toys has already teased on social media that fans and collectors can look forward to movie tie-in products to be unveiled. I’m wiling to bet if not tomorrow, Funko will soon to be unveiling its own Superman tie-in products. Though I’m trying to limit my spending given the current state of the economy, even I probably won’t be able to resist picking up some Krypto and Guy Gardner figures.
Those on the West coast should definitely be sure to attend Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood which is hosting a one-hour guided Studio Tour focused on Superman and the DC Universe and will include a screening on the iconic WB backlot of 1978s Superman: The Movie starring Christopher Reeve as Superman, Marlon Brando as Jor-El, Gene Hackman as Lex Luthor, and Margot Kidder as Lois Lane.
Details below
Superman: The Movie will be introduced by TCM host Ben Mankiewicz and DC President, Publisher, and Chief Creative Officer Jim Lee. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. The Warner Bros. Studio Store in the tour’s Welcome Center will also showcase DC comic book art from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with special appearances from comic book artists. As a bonus, any DC merchandise purchase will include a free special edition comic book, while supplies last.
For those with a case of FOMO, don’t despair! The Max streaming service has you covered with DC Hub takeovers, themed rails, and priority content placements! And those who haven’t cut the cable cord yet, other TBS will air a Superman-themed Big Bang Theory marathon, Adult Swim’s My Adventures with Superman mini-marathon, and Cartoon Network’s Teen Titans Go! marathon.
Likewise the DC Studios Showcase: The Official Podcast will release a special episode hosted by nerd commentator Frankey Smith and entertainment journalist Tyler Coates, alongside comic correspondent Coy Jandreau. The trio will celebrate what Superman means to them, deep dive into the history of the iconic Super Hero and the lasting impact Superman has had, and continues to have, on pop-culture. The DC Studios Showcase: The Official Podcast is available on Max and Max YouTube and anywhere podcasts are available.
It may be a school day tomorrow, but even students can enjoy Superman Day through the DC Superpowered Storytellers initiative. Details below:
DC Superpowered Storytellers arrives in classrooms, homes and after-school clubs to help middle school students unlock their inner superhero and tell their stories with courage and authenticity. The WBD education initiative will feature comic book-inspired activities and includes a virtual field trip to DC headquarters and Warner Bros. Studios, giving students a unique look into the world of DC’s legendary Super Heroes and iconic blockbuster films as they discover the secrets behind crafting bold, action-packed adventures. Learn more here.
And of course, the best way to celebrate Superman Day is by visiting your local comic book store where fans can pick up a selection of Superman curated comics, including free copies of
- All Star Superman #1 Special Edition by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely
- Superman For All Seasons Book One Special Edition by Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale
- An excerpt of the upcoming young adult graphic novel Jimmy Olsen’s SuperCyclopedia by Gabe Soria and Sandy Jarrell
- Action Comics #1 Golden Age–Size Facsimile Edition featuring an homage cover by superstar artist Dan Mora
Available at participating booksellers, mass market and online retailers, including local comic book stores, fans can also pick up new editions of All-Star Superman (a deluxe edition hardcover with a new dust jacket featuring art by Frank Quitely) and Superman Unchained (a deluxe edition hardcover with a new dust jacket featuring art by Jim Lee).
After unveiling what’s to come this July for the Superman line of books, DC also announced five new Superman-themed corner boxes that will appear on DC’s “Summer of Superman” comics.
Drawn by superstar artist Dan Mora, the new corner box art, will appear first on Supergirl #1 (May 14), Superman Unlimited #1 (May 21), Superman #26 (May 28), Action Comics #1087 (June 11) and Krypto: The Last Dog of Krypton #1 (June 18).