DC Comics has expanded well beyond its origins in the comic book realm, making significant inroads into video games, television, and movies. While each of these mediums offers unique storytelling opportunities, they also present distinct strengths and limitations. In a recent interview with Polygon, acclaimed DC writer Tom King shared insights on the comparative benefits of films and TV shows over comic books.
One of the primary advantages of comic books lies in their creative freedom with visuals. Comic creators are not bound by budget constraints that often plague film and television productions. For instance, if a writer envisions an awe-inspiring space armada hovering over Earth, all it takes is an adept artist to bring that vision to life—unlike films, where such scenes may be dependent on costly CGI. However, King has expressed his admiration for certain elements that movies and television can offer:
[Movies and TV are] much easier — comics cost $4 to $5 a pop, and to get embroiled in our universe, you have to buy so many of them. It’s much easier to order a Netflix subscription for $20 a month and watch 20 movies. But hopefully — I mean, I’ve been saying this for 10 years — hopefully those movies lead people back to the books. James [Gunn] is a huge fan of comics, and obviously it’s where I come from, so it’s a fantastic platform. [
With sudden pique
] You know what they have over us? They can use music. In comics, I can never do a needle drop. I am incredibly envious when you’re like,
Oh man, the emotions in this scene aren’t working. All right, I’m dropping in “Hallelujah.”
I never get to do that in comics.
As articulated by King, the power of music in cinema and television enhances emotional resonance—something that comics cannot replicate. The emotional cues in comic storytelling are solely reliant on the written word and illustration, which makes it challenging to evoke certain feelings that a soundtrack might otherwise amplify.
DC Has an Abundance of Characters—A Double-Edged Sword
The Vastness of DC’s Universe: A Blessing and a Challenge
Another significant drawback of comic books is the sheer volume of content available. Since Superman’s debut in 1938’s Action Comics #1, DC has introduced numerous characters, each with their own complex narratives. Take the Penguin, for example; he first emerged in 1941, contributing to a rich history that spans over eighty years. Along with this extensive character roster comes changing continuity, which can complicate a newcomer’s ability to grasp the evolving story arcs across different eras of DC’s publishing history.
Cost is yet another hurdle that readers face. Collecting comics can become a costly endeavor, with individual issues ranging from $4 to $5, and numerous titles released weekly. In contrast, enjoying shows like the acclaimed *Penguin* series on Max only requires a monthly subscription, granting access to countless films and series for a fraction of the cost. Marvel fans face similar challenges; decades of *Avengers* comics can lead to an overwhelming amount of material, whereas consuming just a few films provides a streamlined experience.
Comics Present Unique Barriers to Entry—Even Tom King Acknowledges This
TV Shows and Movies as Accessible Entry Points
For many, the simplicity of purchasing a movie ticket and experiencing a standalone story in a few hours is far more appealing than the investment of time and money required for comic book series. King’s own work on a twelve-issue *Penguin* comic, which unfolded over an entire year, starkly contrasts with the eight-episode format of the *Penguin* show on Max, which can be binge-watched in a single day. While DC Comics undoubtedly offers rich storytelling and beloved characters, it is evident that the advantages of movies and television can create compelling alternatives for audiences.
For further details, refer to the original interview on Polygon.