Episode 138 - The Superman / Flash Races with Austin Funk

Few questions inspire as much debate as "Who is faster, the Flash or Superman?" Case and Jmike are joined by Austin Funk, from the Rolling with Difficulty podcast (https://rollingwithdifficultypod.transistor.fm/) , to take a closer look at the photo finish that is the various races between Superman and the Flash.

 

Overview

 

The Discussion/Analysis meeting centered around the iconic races between Superman and The Flash, covering their historical significance in comics from the first race in Superman 199 to contemporary depictions in animated series and live-action adaptations. Key topics included the power dynamics and character developments through different comic eras, particularly focusing on Wally West’s evolution as The Flash, and the emotional depth apparent in races involving the Flash family. The meeting also highlighted artistic challenges in illustrating super-speed and discussed the scientific and philosophical themes these races evoke, such as the concept of the Speed Force. Additionally, memorable race narratives were examined for their impact and legacy within the DC universe, followed by an exploration of fan reception and the cultural relevance of these iconic rivalries. Overall, the meeting provided a comprehensive look at the Superman vs. Flash dynamic, its evolution over time, and its significance in the broader superhero genre.

Notes

‍♂️ Introduction to Superman vs Flash Races (00:00 - 12:48)

• Discussed various races between Superman and The Flash in comics
• Mentioned the first race in Superman 199, written by Jim Shooter
• Highlighted the time-honored tradition of these races in DC Comics
• Noted that these races serve as a snapshot of Superman and comics at different times

‍♂️ Early Races and Their Significance (12:48 - 22:45)

• Explored the first race in Superman 199 and its details
• Discussed the science explanations and power differences between Superman and Flash
• Highlighted the gambling subplot in the first race
• Mentioned the introduction of different types of Kryptonite

Post-Crisis Races and Character Development (22:46 - 31:56)

• Discussed the post-Crisis races, focusing on Wally West as The Flash
• Explored the power level changes and character development in this era
• Mentioned the involvement of Mr. Mxyzptlk in one of the races
• Discussed the introduction of Crimson Kryptonite

⚡ Flash Family and Legacy (31:56 - 42:03)

• Explored races involving different members of the Flash family
• Discussed the legacy aspect of The Flash character
• Mentioned races involving Jay Garrick and Superman
• Highlighted the emotional depth in some of these stories

Superman's Legacy and Comparisons (42:03 - 50:55)

• Discussed Superman's legacy compared to The Flash's
• Explored the similarities and differences between Superman and Flash as characters
• Mentioned the concept of legacy in Superman's story
• Discussed the impact of Barry Allen's return as The Flash

Races in Other Media (50:55 - 01:00:58)

• Explored races between Superman and Flash in animated series and live-action shows
• Discussed the challenges of depicting super-speed in various media
• Mentioned specific episodes from Superman: The Animated Series and Smallville
• Highlighted the importance of these races in establishing shared universes

Artistic Challenges and Interpretations (01:00:58 - 01:09:30)

• Discussed the difficulties of illustrating races in comic books
• Mentioned various artists' approaches to depicting super-speed
• Explored the evolution of how races are depicted in comics over time
• Highlighted standout artistic interpretations of Superman vs Flash races

Scientific and Philosophical Aspects (01:09:30 - 01:18:31)

• Discussed the scientific explanations (or lack thereof) for super-speed in comics
• Explored the concept of the Speed Force and its implications
• Mentioned the philosophical questions raised by characters with limitless abilities
• Discussed how these races reflect broader themes in superhero comics

Best Race Stories and Their Impact (01:18:31 - 01:27:36)

• Highlighted some of the most memorable Superman vs Flash races
• Discussed the story "Up in the Sky" as a standout race narrative
• Explored the impact of these races on the larger DC universe
• Mentioned how these races often serve as milestones in comic book storytelling

Evolution of the Superman vs Flash Dynamic (01:27:36 - 01:36:25)

• Discussed how the relationship between Superman and Flash has evolved over time
• Explored the changing power dynamics between the characters
• Mentioned how these races reflect broader changes in comic book storytelling
• Discussed the impact of various comic book eras on the Superman vs Flash dynamic

Cultural Impact and Fan Reception (01:36:25 - 01:46:44)

• Explored the cultural significance of Superman vs Flash races
• Discussed fan reactions and debates surrounding these races
• Mentioned how these races have become a staple of DC Comics lore
• Explored the impact of these races on the broader superhero genre

Character Analysis and Thematic Exploration (01:46:44 - 01:55:29)

• Conducted deeper analysis of Superman and Flash as characters
• Explored recurring themes in Superman vs Flash race stories
• Discussed how these races highlight core aspects of each character
• Mentioned the broader implications of these races for superhero storytelling