DCAU #364: Living (Scott) Free

IN THIS ONE... Mister Miracle's latest trick is sabotaged by Granny Goodness.

CREDITS: Written by Mark Evanier; art by Neil Vokes and Terry Austin.

REVIEW: Mister Miracle and his supporting cast have appeared before in the DCAU (mostly in the marginally canonical Adventures in the DC Universe book), though he's never actually met Superman before. Not officially, anyway. Who knew the Man of Steel would be such a stick in the mud when it comes to the super-escape artist's knack for putting his own life in danger for the entertainment of the masses. Well, when I put it that way... But Kirby friend Mark Evanier gives Scott Free dialogue explaining his psychology, and it makes sense. Having won his freedom from Apokolips, he means to celebrate by proving it can never again be taken away. The fabricated dangers of his act don't compare to Granny's orphanage, is what he's saying.

The Rocket Sled of Death is a great example of the death traps the King used to put him in all the time, and when booby trapped by Granny, it's great that he turns it into a makeshift vehicle and drives his way home to turn the tables on her. Even greater that her trap causes her orphanage to be damaged and her wards to escape. Scott creates hope wherever he goes (let's not forget this all happens at a benefit circus show).

Sorry Supes, but this is definitely Mister Miracle's show, and it's lovely to see Barda take part as well, even if the continuity's a little odd there (see In the mainstream comics, below). Vokes' art is a bit loosey-goosey and cartoony at times, but it's definitely expressive. Great faces all around.
IN THE MAINSTREAM COMICS: Was there ever a time when Barda roomed with Lashina and would jump a Boom Tube from Apokolips when Scott was in danger? This seems to take place pre-Mister Miracle #1, and yet isn't his first appearance in the DCAU. It's an interesting set-up, mind, and perhaps the time travel element of the previous year's DCAU tie-in Annuals could explain the discrepancy...

REREADABILITY: Medium-High - Not a very good Superman story, but it's an awesome Scott Free story!

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