My Adventures With Superman: Is the Criticism of Lois Lane Fair?
With the first season of My Adventures With Superman now complete, many fans have turned on Lois Lane. The main criticism seems to be that her character is unlikable, which is an interesting take considering she’s the main reason many people watch.
If you haven’t caught the anime yet, the show centres on Clark Kent as he navigates his life as a reporter and his life as Superman. The focus on the human side of the Man of Steel brings a wholesome touch, but the romantic comedy also allows Clark to act like a goofy teenager.
The series focuses on Clark’s relationships, with the Daily Planet staff and those close to him, which brings a refreshing change from other superhero shows. Some fans have taken issue with this approach, as it seems to bring out the worst in people on the internet. Case in point: the negative reaction to Lois Lane.
In episode four, Lois confronts Clark about Superman’s identity. She does so with her typical tenacity, standing up for herself and refusing to tolerate any nonsense. Apparently, this makes her a bad character, as she’s too unbelievable and too strong.
The argument is that Lois should be afraid, timid, and submissive towards Clark, as he’s a massive superhuman. This, of course, ignores just how stubborn Lois can be, as her obsession with the truth and her pursuit of the best story can sometimes get her into trouble.
Lois’s impulsive actions, such as breaking into a prison or throwing herself off a roof to prove a point, stem from her passion rather than malice. Her personality expresses itself in an irrationally realistic approach. She makes choices that others may disagree with, but that doesn’t make her any less of a character.
This negative reaction against Lois seems to arise from outdated expectations of her character. Lois is a woman of colour with short hair and an attitude, and the resistance from purists was expected, even without considering valid critiques.
Despite the backlash, Lois is an excellent character. She expresses her personality with an irrationally realistic approach that many viewers can relate to. Making choices that others may disagree with doesn’t diminish her as a character, it just makes her more human.
If you’re not sold on Lois yet, check out why she’s the best female Superman partner. You can also take a look at everything we know about the Man of Steel movie.
