History docuseries examines pertinence of superheroes and caped crusaders

George R. R. Martin

In the History docuseries “Superheroes Decoded,” the significance of modern comic-book adventurers and outlandish characters is explored. While it isn’t an exhaustive exploration, the documentary gives a knowledgeable timeline of the creation of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and other iconic superheroes.

Backed by interviews with comics historians, filmmakers, creators and actors, the two-part series (tomorrow and July 5, 9 p.m.) engrossingly presents the superhero genre as a quintessentially American creation, depicting those figures and their stories as mythology that was initially inspired by global unrest and dismal economic conditions.

These heroes became part of the zeitgeist in a pivotal era, their adventures reflecting the times, especially Superman, Captain America and Wonder Woman, who had proactive involvement in war efforts across the globe.
Highlights abound in Part One, where the impact and appeal of such fictional heroes on readers are dissected—for instance, their effect on soldiers and aspiring recruits, as well as Wonder Woman’s “Rosie the Riveter”-esque symbolism to women who took over men’s jobs on the home front.

While it features certain writers and artists, as well—including Superman creators Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster’s conceptualization and eventual legal battle with their brainchild’s owners for benefits—other essential creators aren’t mentioned at all.

Still, it shares substantial facts on its chosen subjects. A sizable chunk of the first episode talks about the waning relevance of Superman after World War II.

It also tells of chief competitor Marvel’s emergence as a comics giant and innovator of science fiction concepts. One of its first heroes, Spider-Man, was also immediately relatable because he embodied the reader, with corresponding flaws and problems, according to co-creator Stan Lee.

The docuseries acknowledges how far the live-action adaptations have gone, as well, showing clips of early efforts, including the “Superman” series starring George Reeves, and more current ones from DC and Marvel.

Among the high-profile interviewees are author George R.R. Martin, “Wonder Woman” director Patty Jenkins, former Marvel writers Stan Lee and Roy Thomas, “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” actor Clark Gregg and “Heavy Metal” editor in chief Grant Morrison, who gave the series depth and intriguing backstories.

Clark Gregg

Overall, “Superheroes Decoded” gives its broad subject a streamlined look at the popular genre. While the abbreviated approach tends to skip some milestones, it nonetheless proffers oft-intriguing parallels with real-life conflicts.

It also provides a clear chronology—from the changing tastes of fans, to reinventions that bring the superhero back into the readers’ consciousness.