Marvel's The Incredible Hulk wanders around the desert and then stumbles into the middle of a barbecue and that interferes with Superman getting a milkshake. Hilarity ensues. But in all seriousness, this is a great comic! Join us for our discussion about it with Logan Crowley!

Men of Steel Full Episode

Originally aired: June 6, 2025

Edited by Sophia Ricciardi

Scored by Geoff Moonen

Overview In this episode of the podcast, hosts Case Aiken and Jmike welcome back guest Logan Crowley to delve into the thrilling crossover comic "The Incredible Hulk vs. Superman" from the DC vs. Marvel omnibus. They explore the art, storytelling techniques, and character dynamics within this blended comic universe, noting the pivotal roles of Hulk and Superman, and their contrasting origins. The narrative unfolds with Superman investigating seismic disturbances caused by the rampaging Hulk, leading to their first explosive encounter at a barbecue, and further complications arise with Lex Luthor's scheming. As the plot escalates, viewers witness an emotional crescendo culminating in a heart-wrenching conclusion. The hosts highlight the depth of the story and its portrayal of classic characters, while also inviting listeners to engage in their Patreon, follow Crowley's upcoming podcast "Single Bound," and join the community on Discord.

Notes ️ Podcast Introduction (00:00 - 10:26)

• Case Aiken announces the launch of Patreon for Certain POV Media
• Patreon location: patreon.com/certainpovmedia
• Executive producer acknowledgments: Carter Hallett, Sean Muir, Lee Greger, Memento Young, Logan Crowley, Joe Mastropiero, Nancy and Casey Aiken, and Adam Samtur (and Keith Lehtinen)
• Case and Jmike welcome returning guest Logan Crowley
• The episode focuses on 'The Incredible Hulk versus Superman' from the DC vs Marvel omnibus
• The hosts establish this crossover as a masterpiece that perfectly blends both comic universes

️ Comic Analysis: Structure & Setting (10:26 - 20:19)

• The story uses a blended universe with a framing device set in present day and flashback to the past
• Steve Rude's art praised for perfectly capturing both Jack Kirby and Joe Shuster styles
• The comic includes numerous Easter eggs (like 'Otisburg' reference)
• Story plugs a continuity hole in Hulk's history regarding his transformation method
• Timeline placement: for Hulk, after Metal Master story in Tales to Astonish; for Superman, between issues 4-5 of Man of Steel
• The omnibus includes extra material with notes and original art sketches

Character Dynamics & Story Setup (20:20 - 30:00)

• Discussion of Hulk's varying intelligence levels throughout comic history
• Rick Jones identified as a crucial character in Hulk stories
• Story begins with a documentary on Hulk that Superman and Lois watch
• The narrative compares Superman and Hulk's origins (rockets and explosions)
• Flashback story begins with Hulk hiding in a cave and spontaneously transforming
• Superman described as being in his early years as a hero during this story

️ Plot Progression: First Half (30:01 - 39:33)

• Hulk goes on a rampage while Clark Kent interviews a seismologist
• Superman investigates unusual seismic activity caused by Hulk
• Their first meeting occurs at a barbecue Hulk interrupts
• Superman is battered by Hulk and thrown into space
• General Ross appears with corporate VIP Lex Luthor (with hair, Boss Hogg outfit)
• Lois Lane tracks down Rick Jones to get information about the Hulk

Character Interactions (39:33 - 49:43)

• Rick Jones refuses to talk to Lois about the Hulk, showing his loyalty
• Superman meets Lois outside a drive-in, establishing the classic love triangle dynamic
• Banner and Kent meet without realizing each other's secret identities
• Lex Luthor flirts with Betty Ross while watching Hulk footage
• Lois wants to warn Betty about Luthor's questionable character
• Betty and Lois bond over having general fathers

Conflict Escalation (49:43 - 59:15)

• Luthor creates a fake Hulk robot to frame the real Hulk
• Betty Ross appears to be kidnapped by 'Hulk'
• Bruce Banner transforms into Hulk to save Betty
• Superman arrives, sees Hulk standing over Betty, misinterprets the situation
• Epic fight sequence begins with Superman throwing Hulk into a cactus ravine
• Military fires on both heroes during their battle
• Luthor attempts to gain access to the gamma gun

Resolution & Reflection (59:16 - 01:12:24)

• Superman and Hulk team up to destroy the dangerous gamma gun
• Fastball special scene: Superman throws Hulk at the gamma gun
• Luthor escapes consequences due to his wealth and status
• The story ends with a sad conclusion in the present day
• Betty Ross dies of radiation poisoning; Banner returns to his lonely existence
• Superman reflects on his missed opportunity to help Banner
• The hosts praise the emotional depth of the story and its perfect capture of both characters
• Logan shares information about his upcoming podcast 'Single Bound'
• The hosts provide links to their social media and recommend other podcasts

Action items Unassigned

• Listeners should check out the Patreon at patreon.com/certainpovmedia for more content (01:00)
• Interested listeners should consider supporting Peter David's GoFundMe
• Listeners should follow Logan Crowley on Instagram at Token Hillbilly (01:08:02)
• Listeners can contact Logan about his new podcast at [email protected] (01:08:30)
• Listeners can join the Discord server through links at certainpov.com (01:10:00)
• Listeners should check out the 'Books that Burn' podcast recommended by Case (01:11:05)