Writer: Karl KeselPlot: After the death of Jason Todd, Superman and Batman attempt to sort out their differences, and learn exactly what it means to be a hero.
This is unquestionably the best issue since the series began. Now, thankfully, Harrison Grey's death is only briefly mentioned. Though that event started off the series, Superman and Batman's constant return to the memory of that day neither keeps the stories moving, nor does it solve the mystery of Grey's death.
Kesel revisits A Death In The Family, and creates some vibrant tension between the diametric heroes. Right after their heated discussion over Superman's fallibility, Clark decides to take Bruce to Smallville. I knew right then that this'd be a great character piece, something this maxi-series should've centred on a whole lot more. An entire issue devoted to Bruce and Clark discussing, arguing, and consoling each other over their mistakes.
Batman narrowly avoids answering Superman's questions about inescapable death and the possibility of having to kill or be killed, and allusions are made to future events like Superman's encounter with Doomsday, and how Batman didn't want look for a third Robin. They talk a bit about women, too.
They later work together to save three lives, helping not only those people, but also themselves, reinforcing the lesson that Clark explained to Bruce in Jonathan Kent's wheat field - "What we do isn't about death - it's about life!"
When Clark asked Bruce if he liked flapjacks, I thought they'd go to the Kent household. They certainly did. After a long day, two great friends visit Clark's parents, something Bruce wishes he had back. They enjoy an awesome homemade breakfast, have a great conversation with Jonathan and Martha, and appreciate life for what it is.
Two heroes coming together to make sense of what they do and why they do it. That's what World's Finest is all about.
