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Flashback Friday: Man of Steel Masterpiece

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by Lysa Goodman

Living outside of Detroit, we have the pleasure of seeing lots of geeky news about big movies being filmed in and around the local area. The most recent juicy bits were from the set of Batman vs. Superman, with Affleck in town and spotted at many local hotspots. Local papers have run plenty of spy shots from the sets, piquing the interest of Detroiters and Suburbanites alike.

But with all the spectacle and big-budget superhero thrills that have been served up to us on the big screen these days, it’s easy to forget about Superman’s Golden Age. A great reminder comes in the form of this Superman Masterpiece Edition Box Set. The description reads as follows:

"Superman first landed on the planet Earth in 1938. An inveterate champion of the downtrodden and oppressed, his principles and virtues reflected the imaginations of his two teenage creators and the Depression-era world in which they lived."

The Superman Masterpiece Edition is a spectacular tribute to the rise of the worlds first, greatest, and most-loved super hero. This ultra-deluxe package features an exclusive statue of Superman; an accurately sized, color reprint of the first issue of Supermans own comic book from 1939; and a lavishly illustrated, color hardcover book by best-selling author Les Daniels detailing Superman's Golden Age. This supremely collectible commemoration offers a nostalgic view of the '30s, '40s, and '50s, when the Man of Steel captured the world's imagination.

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When you think of grown-ups collecting toys, this piece does not bring the least amount of embarrassment - it’s glossy packaging and gorgeous artwork give it a very upscale look. Inside, there’s an 8-inch resin statue of Supes in his classic, 1938, chiseled-chin glory. Paired with a reproduction of the original comic and a hardcover book that delves into his history, it’s a beautiful set. The hard sided box has a hinged cover that opens, with the statue inside seen through a clear window. There are custom-made areas for the book and comic. Prop it open, and it’s a perfect display. The total package was put out by Chronicle Books in 1999. The statue is very well-done, and makes me wish I had a loose one in my collection to keep out.

Of course, in his original era, Superman stands proudly in his undies. We can be thankful that today’s modern Superman has at least learned to wear his underwear on the inside.

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