Discover Superman vs Meshi: The Best DC Comic You Haven’t Read Yet

With the anticipated release of Superman, directed by James Gunn, set for 2025, fans seeking a taste of Clark Kent can indulge in the comics. Among the myriad options available, one title stands out for those craving a lighter narrative: Superman vs. Meshi, created by Satoshi Miyagawa and Kai Kitago. This delightful comic offers a unique and fun perspective on the iconic character.

In recent years, DC Comics has ventured into the manga landscape, a move that has inspired various projects within the company. This initiative was accompanied by the introduction of three manga titles in partnership with Kodansha in 2023, with Superman vs. Meshi focusing on the Man of Steel’s affection for global cuisine, especially Japanese dishes. Additionally, DC is set to launch the 2024 DC Compact Comics, presenting their characters in a manga-friendly format.

Covers for DC's manga series: Batman: Justice Buster, Superman vs. Meshi, and Joker: One Operation Joker.

While Superman vs. Meshi deviates from the intensity often found in traditional superhero narratives, it still embodies Clark Kent’s appreciation for humanity, blending humor with sincerity.

A Slice-of-Life Narrative Featuring Superman and Friends

Celebrating Superman’s Humanity Through Culinary Adventures

Comic book art: Superman takes a selfie with the Justice League eating food.

In Superman vs. Meshi, readers encounter a more light-hearted version of the superhero, who employs his extraordinary capabilities to satisfy a very human craving: delicious food. This portrayal presents a relatable side of Superman, reminiscent of characters like Tatsu from The Way of the Househusband by Kousuke Oono. Both Superman and Tatsu, while mighty figures, become endearing through their everyday quests for comfort, revealing a deeper appreciation for community and belonging through shared meals.

Navigating the extensive world of Superman comics can be daunting for newcomers. As of now, the character appears in several ongoing series, including Superman, Action Comics, and various additional titles like Batman/Superman: World’s Finest and Justice League Unlimited. In addition to these, numerous graphic novels collect decades of Superman’s adventures, often featuring complex and intricate storylines steeped in the character’s extensive continuity.

In contrast, Superman vs. Meshi takes a different approach. Each chapter serves as a standalone vignette, exploring various cuisines enjoyed by Superman during his escapades in Japan. This episodic structure aligns more closely with the slice-of-life genre, resonating with manga such as The Way of the Househusband and Mr. Villain’s Day Off by Yuu Morikawa, rather than the action-centric tone of series like My Hero Academia.

Bridging the Gap: From Manga to DC Comics Fandom

Exploring the Similarities Between American Comics and Manga

Comic book art: Superman flies while eating rice.

Superman vs. Meshi not only resonates with manga enthusiasts but also has the potential to captivate readers who may be unfamiliar with American superhero lore. The series can serve as an inviting entry point for manga fans to explore the wider DC universe, including iconic characters like Batman and Aquaman. Likewise, devoted Superman followers might discover a newfound interest in the slice-of-life manga, broadening their reading horizons.

Superman vs. Meshi is currently available from Kodansha, offering a refreshing blend of humor and heart in the world of comics and manga.

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