Are comic book multiverses a stroke of genius or a rubbish storytelling crutch? In this episode of the For Outsiders Comics Podcast, the team dives headfirst into one of the biggest debates in comics, exploring whether alternate timelines and infinite earths offer limitless creativity or just remove all the emotional stakes.

Before the main event, the hosts break down the comics that hit their reading pile this week, sparking some of the fieriest debates yet. Join the discussion on:

• Whatever Happened to the Crimson Justice? A story that feels like a Dark Knight Returns homage.

• Wolverines and Deadpools #1: Is the interaction between Deadpool's daughter Ellie and Laura Kinney (Wolverine) enough to carry the book, or does it fall flat?

• All-New Venom #8: A truly divisive issue that has one host calling it "the dumbest shit I've ever seen." Is Mary Jane's turn with the symbiote inventive or infuriating?

• Captain America #1: A new run by Chip Zdarsky that sparks a heated argument about Captain America's real timeline in World War II.

• And a special review of Char Against Humanity #1, a sci-fi comedy book written by one of our very own hosts!

From questionable continuity at Marvel to the sprawling Elseworlds of DC, this episode is a must-listen for any fan who loves to analyse the craft of comic book storytelling.

"If you like what you're hearing and you want to support this show, as well as some amazing indie creators from small island states, you can head over to our store: shop.alluhwicomics.com. You'll find titles we've mentioned like Char Against Humanity, Terror of the Midnight Rubber, and Harrison's Grave. That support allows us to keep doing what we do and directly helps the creators themselves."

Is the comic book community sabotaging itself? In this episode of the 4Outsiders Comics Podcast, we dive headfirst into one of the most contentious topics in fandom: gatekeeping, creator harassment, and whether fans are their own worst enemy. We share our personal experiences and debate if protecting the art form has turned into toxic behaviour.

Before that, we deliver our unfiltered reviews of this week's most talked-about comics. We start with a deep-dive into Dan Slott's Superman Unlimited #2. Does Superman's new 'golden form' break the character, or is it a bold new direction? We analyse the 'kryptonite Wakanda' and what feels like a Marvel-style approach to the Man of Steel.

Next, we tackle Jonathan Hickman's Avengers vs. Aliens. After a huge build-up, did the finale feel rushed? We discuss the missed opportunities with Mr. Sinister, the Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda, and whether this crossover lived up to its potential. Finally, we review a hidden gem: James Tynion IV's Exquisite Corpses from Image Comics, a dark and gritty story that feels like The Purge for the super-rich.

Join us for a passionate discussion on the best and worst of modern comics and the community that surrounds them. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

We've had our say, but what do you think? Are comic fans their own worst enemy, or is gatekeeping necessary? Head down to the comments section on YouTube or Spotify and let us know your thoughts. Do you agree with us, disagree, or have a take from out of left field? We want to hear it.

(Podcast brought to you by Skylarking Media Inc.)Show Notes

• (00:00) Introduction: The crew assembles to discuss the latest in comics, minus one co-host who is humorously "imprisoned in Latvia".
• (01:39) Comic Review: Superman Unlimited #2: The team gives a scathing review of Dan Slott's second issue. Key discussion points include the "shock jock" writing style, the absurd concept of a kryptonite-based nation, and the controversial new 'golden form' power that makes Superman immune to his core weakness for 200 seconds.
• (17:40) Comic Review: Avengers vs. Aliens #4: A deep-dive into the finale of Jonathan Hickman's mini-series. The hosts express disappointment with the rushed ending, the perversion of established characters like the Hulk, and the many seeded ideas that were never explored.
• (34:45) Comic Review: Exquisite Corpses #2: A positive review of the James Tynion IV and Michael Walsh horror series. The premise of a "battle royale" orchestrated by America's richest families is explored, praising its fun concept and gritty art.
• (41:58) Main Topic: Are Comic Fans Their Own Worst Enemy?: The central discussion begins. The hosts debate the pros and cons of gatekeeping, the impact of social media outrage on the industry, creator harassment, and whether the community is welcoming to new readers.
• (1:08:28) Housekeeping & Outro: How to find the podcast, support the show, and what's coming up next week.

Summary

In this episode of the Four Outsiders Comics Podcast, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about their recent comic book reads, including Supergirl #2, New Avengers, and the Death of Silver Surfer. They explore themes of identity, representation, and the evolution of characters in the comic book world. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling and art in comics, while also reflecting on the cultural impact of these narratives. The hosts share their insights and opinions, making for an entertaining and informative episode for comic book enthusiasts. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore various themes in literature and comics, focusing on character development, the significance of representation, and the evolution of beloved characters like Tim Drake and Miles Morales. They discuss the emotional connections readers have with characters, the impact of storytelling, and the challenges faced by writers in modern narratives. The conversation also touches on the importance of cultural representation in comics, particularly through works like Synth Squad, and the complexities of character arcs in the DC universe.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts

00:00 Cold Open

01:36 Introduction

05:21 Weekly Reads: Supergirl #2 Review

11:19 Discussion on Supergirl's Character and Themes

16:15 Bucky Barnes and the New Avengers

25:59 The Death of Silver Surfer: A Philosophical Journey

38:49 Caricatures of Wealth and Power

41:48 The Silver Surfer's Journey

46:19 Spider-Man's New Adventures

54:31 Marvel's Cosmic and Terrestrial Conflicts

01:05:58 Introducing Sim Squad: A Caribbean Sci-Fi Adventure

01:11:23 Character Development and Emotional Depth in Storytelling

01:14:25 Art and Dialogue in Caribbean Comics

01:14:46 The Problem with Tim Drake: A Deep Dive

01:15:29 The Evolution of Robin: Perspectives on Tim Drake

01:20:35 Fandom and Character Attachment: The Case of Tim Drake

01:31:03 The Future of Tim Drake and the Batman Legacy

Keywords

comics, podcast, Supergirl, New Avengers, Silver Surfer, Spider-Man, graphic novels, comic book reviews, superhero stories, comic book culture, literature, comics, Miles Morales, Anansi, Ares, Deadpool, Synth Squad, Tim Drake, DC Comics, character development