How One JLU Episode Exposed Superman’s Deepest Fear

Few rivalries in the world of comics are as enduring as that between Lex Luthor and Superman. Their dynamic has long been a cornerstone of superhero storytelling, with Luthor serving as the calculating adversary to Superman’s unwavering moral compass. Yet, the established order was upended in the second series of Justice League Unlimited, specifically in the episode titled ‘Clash’.

Manipulation at Its Darkest: Luthor’s Masterstroke

‘Clash’ stands out as one of the most emotionally charged instalments in the animated series. The episode sees Captain Marvel, also known as Billy Batson, nearly destroyed by the very hero he idolises. The catalyst for this tragic turn is Luthor’s meticulously crafted plot to sow discord within the League.

It all begins when Batson, in his superhero guise, publicly suggests that Luthor deserves a chance at redemption, despite his chequered past. This sentiment is quickly seized upon, painting Luthor as a reformed benefactor, especially after he unveils new housing projects for those on lower incomes. However, the revelation that these homes are powered by a sophisticated Kryptonite energy source sets alarm bells ringing for Superman, who suspects a more sinister motive.

Superman’s suspicions push him to the brink, and when Batson attempts to intervene, a brutal confrontation ensues. The fallout is devastating: Batson, disillusioned and wounded, chooses to leave the League, while Superman is left to grapple with the consequences of his actions. Luthor, meanwhile, emerges with his reputation enhanced and his enemies demoralised—a double victory achieved through sheer cunning.

The Psychological Edge: Luthor’s True Power

What makes this episode particularly striking is the way it highlights Luthor’s greatest weapon: his intellect. Rather than relying on brute force, he orchestrates events from the shadows, exploiting the trust and ideals of those around him. Batson’s faith in Superman is shattered, not by physical might, but by the calculated cruelty of Luthor’s scheme.

This portrayal underscores the notion that Luthor’s menace lies not in his resources or technology, but in his ability to manipulate perceptions and undermine the very foundations of heroism. His relentless drive to bring down Superman is depicted as almost pathological, a trait that sets him apart from other villains.

Gunn’s Challenge: Reimagining Luthor for a New Era

Both the DCEU and DCU have struggled to fully capture the complexity and darkness of Luthor’s character. While Zack Snyder’s interpretation leaned towards a more unhinged antagonist, James Gunn’s approach hints at a deeper, more nuanced adversary. In Gunn’s vision, Luthor is less a raving madman and more a rival whose intellect and ambition pose a genuine threat to Superman’s place in the world.

The upcoming Man of Tomorrow project promises to delve further into this dynamic, with Gunn suggesting a narrative that places both Superman and Luthor at its centre. If the series can channel the same sense of psychological intrigue and moral ambiguity seen in ‘Clash’, audiences may finally witness a version of Luthor that does justice to his reputation as one of fiction’s most formidable schemers.

Episode Details and Legacy

For those interested in the specifics, ‘Clash’ is the seventh episode of Justice League Unlimited’s second series, directed by Dan Riba and featuring performances from George Newbern, Kevin Conroy, Phil LaMarr, Carl Lumbly, and Susan Eisenberg. Produced by Warner Bros. Animation, the episode has earned an impressive 8.4/10 rating on IMDb.

Justice League Unlimited remains available for streaming on HBO Max in the United States.