Superman # 36 1989 VF

Superman #36 is a classic comic book published by DC Comics with an official cover date of October 1989. Titled "Laugh... I Thought I'd Die!", this issue lands square in the post-Crisis on Infinite Earths Copper Age era, delivering a blend of high-stakes action and classic comic book comedy centered around one of the Man of Steel's most eccentric silver-age rogues.

The Plot & Storyline

The narrative focuses on a lighthearted but unhinged extortion plot cooked up by a familiar villain:

• The Return of the Prankster: Oswald Loomis, notoriously known as The Prankster, launches a fresh crime spree across Metropolis with a twist. He brands his schemes under the motto "The Cutting Edge of Comedy!"
• Hospital Hijinks: The Prankster unleashes a wave of chaotic, prop-heavy hospital stunts and practical jokes. However, what he considers "just a big joke" crosses the line into genuine danger for the citizens of Metropolis.
• Superman Intervenes: Superman spends the issue tracking down Loomis's increasingly ridiculous traps. The comic is fondly remembered by readers for its high energy and comedic panels—including scenes of Superman playfully reacting to the Prankster's absurd gimmicks.
• Subplots: Alongside the main storyline, the issue moves forward ongoing Metropolis subplots of the late '80s, featuring supporting cast members like Cat Grant, her son Adam Grant, Allie, Perry White, and Morgan Edge.

Creative Team & Style

• Creators: The issue was written and cover-illustrated by the acclaimed Jerry Ordway. Inside, the story features art by penciler Curt Swan and long-time Superman family embellisher Dennis Janke.
• Tone: It serves as a perfect snapshot of the lighthearted "filler" issues common in the late 1980s, giving readers a fun breather from some of the heavier sci-fi and political storylines sweeping through the standard Superman titles at the time.

Collectibility & Variations

This issue is an easily accessible and highly affordable vintage book for collectors:

• Direct Edition: Distributed primarily to specialty comic book shops, featuring the iconic Jerry Ordway cover art of Superman breaking through a giant set of chattering joke teeth.
• Newsstand Edition: The retail version sold at traditional grocery stores and newsstands, identical in story content but featuring a standard barcode in the lower corner of the cover.