Monday, January 30, 2023

The New Super Friends: Terror from the Phantom Zone (1978)

 



One of my favorite episodes. 

In this episode, three Kryptonian criminals escape from the Phantom Zone, due to the radiations of a comet. The three were originally captured by Superman and are looking for revenge on their old foe. Unfortunately the criminals have found red kryptonite and use it against Superman, making him age rapidly. Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Batman, Robin and the Wonder Twins must save the day and their good friend. 

This is a really fun episode with a lot to recommend it. With three villains that are as strong as Superman and the Man of Steel being helpless creates a real feeling of suspense. The scenes with Superman looking onward, powerless to help, have a certain emotional poignancy that makes this a unique entry in the Super Friends franchise. The fact that their goal is not destruction or taking over the world, but simply to make the most powerful of the Super Friends feel completely powerless in a way he never has before, make them some of the most engaging villains in this series. Seeing how easily they can defeat the other Super Friends, also makes this a much more unique and suspenseful episode. 

This episode also benefits from wonderful artwork. I love how the Phantom Zone is pure black and that all the characters are presented as simple outlines (the robotic sound of their voices also adds a lot to the atmosphere). I also love how this episode allows us to visit various locations allowing for more of the wonderful background art and settings that help make this series so delightful. 

This is a wonderful episode and a must see for all Super Friends fans. 

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