Superman: The Animated Series
Episode 6
Feeding Time
Our introduction to The Parasite. He has the power to suck Superman’s strength. That’s a formidable foe. His origin story involves Rudy Jones getting soaked in chemicals he was stealing. The chemicals turn him into a monster. As far as scare tactics go this was pretty damn gruesome. Worse than anything BtAS ever did, maybe one of the gorier moments in the entire DCAU.
We get to see Jimmy Olsen save Superman this time around. A great way to hash out the young photographer’s character. He’s ambitious, discounted for his youth. Olsen proves to be a loyal friend to Superman. While he’ll get other episodes focused on him. Olsen’s character never truly shines in the series but we are treated to small moments here and there. Parasite is able to read the thoughts of people whose energy he steals, conveniently he needs a recharge every few hours, and super conveniently forgets it after losing the energy. He ends up catatonic at the end but hints his return (because they always return) happen after sucking the strength out of a roach.
Overall this episode isn’t too exciting except for his transformation into the parasite but we are treated to another villain who is a danger to Superman. A lot of the early episodes focused on creating villains that could be a challenge to the character. It’s easy to make villains for Batman. Superman rogues are a true challenge the creators had to put real thought and effort into establishing as threats.
Written by
Joseph Ammendolea
Owner/President
“I Like To Play With Toys” Productions®
ILikeToPlayWithToysProductions@Yahoo.com
