Every fan of Batman has their personal favorite story, but legendary comic writer Mark Waid stands out with two exceptional picks that truly resonate with him. The extensive collection of Batman narratives has inspired generations, yet there are unique tales that captivate even distinguished creators like Waid.
At WonderCon, Mark Waid—renowned for his work on titles such as Justice League Unlimited and Batman/Superman: World’s Finest—took center stage during a panel organized by DC Comics focusing on Superman. According to Comic Book Club, Waid shared insights on future projects, his favorite characters, and revealed his extensive reading history, noting that he has read every Superman comic as well as nearly every Batman comic.
During this insightful appearance, Waid highlighted his top two Batman stories: “To Kill a Legend” from Detective Comics #500 and the iconic “Heart of Ice” episode from Batman: The Animated Series.
Mark Waid’s Top Two Batman Tales
Waid’s Noteworthy Selections
For those who may not remember, “Heart of Ice” marked a significant moment in Batman: The Animated Series, redefining the character of Mister Freeze with a poignant backstory involving his wife, Nora, and his desperation to save her. In contrast, Detective Comics #500 presents an intriguing adventure where Batman and Robin venture to an alternate Earth to rescue their counterparts, Thomas and Martha Wayne, providing a chance for a life that Bruce Wayne himself never had.
Waid’s choice of these two stories speaks volumes about their quality. Notably, the reinterpretation of Mister Freeze in “Heart of Ice” has become the defining origin for the character within the Prime DC Universe canon. Meanwhile, “To Kill a Legend” poses a thought-provoking what-if scenario, exploring an alternate reality where Bruce Wayne’s tragic loss never occurred. Waid’s expertise in storytelling reinforces that any Batman aficionado would benefit greatly from experiencing these classic tales.
Trusting Mark Waid’s Expertise
The Insights of a True Fan
While it is common for comic creators to be fans of the superhero genre, few exhibit the same level of passion as Mark Waid. With a self-acknowledged history of reading countless comics, Waid possesses deep insights into numerous characters, particularly Batman. His high regard for both “To Kill a Legend” and “Heart of Ice” implies that these narratives possess significant creative merits.
Although personal favorites can vary significantly among readers, Waid’s esteemed picks warrant attention. They not only showcase compelling storytelling but may also reveal influences that permeate Waid’s own works. For dedicated Batman fans in search of engaging stories, delving into these iconic narratives could prove rewarding.
Source: Comic Book Club