Superman: The Animated Series (1996)

About Superman: The Animated Series

"Superman: The Animated Series" is a popular American television show that aired from 1996 to 2000. Created by the producers of "Batman: The Animated Series", Paul Dini and Bruce Timm, this series stayed truthful to the spirit of the original Superman comic books while adding a modern touch. The series is heavily based on the original stories by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, with the protagonist, Clark Kent, leading a double life as a mild-mannered reporter and the superhero, Superman, who battles against villains to protect his planet, Earth, and his adopted hometown, Metropolis.

Making / Production

The series was produced by Warner Bros. Animation and originally aired on The WB. The producers wanted to create a balance between the classic Superman everyone knows and loves, and a more modern characterization. Therefore, they incorporated elements from both the classic comics and the modern movies and comic book series. Each episode was carefully crafted with vibrant animation and complex character development.

Actors

• Tim Daly: As the voice of Superman/Clark Kent, Daly brings an air of nobility and charm to the character.
• Dana Delany: Voicing Lois Lane, Delany brought depth and personality to the dynamic reporter.
• Clancy Brown: Offered his unique voice to the character of Lex Luthor, imparting a sense of menace to Superman's nemesis.
• Michael Ironside: Voiced the role of Darkseid, the immortal and omnipotent villain, with an intimidating fervor.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series was the first to introduce Superman's archnemesis, Darkseid.
• Although it is based on a comic book, the series introduced new characters and stories not found in any previous Superman comic or adaptation.
• Bruce Timm took inspiration from the Fleischer Brothers' Superman shorts from the 1940s when designing Superman's look for the series.

Quotes

• "In the end, the world didn't really need a Superman...just a brave one." - Superman
• "Dreams lift us up and transform us into something better. And on my soul, I swear that until my dream of a world where dignity, honor and justice are the reality we all share, I'll never stop fighting. Ever." - Superman
• "I'm not a hero. I'm just a guy who does the right thing...or at least tries to." - Clark Kent
• "I'm not interested in threats. I make them." - Lex Luthor

Music, Soundtrack

• The legendary Shirley Walker composed the iconic music for the series.
• The main theme is frequently acknowledged as one of the best for any animated superhero show.
• The soundtrack carries a cinematic quality, enhancing the animated visuals and providing a more immersive experience for the viewers.