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"Selling Superman" 4-Part Documentary Review
Posted on October 26, 2024 by Neil Cole
Directed by Adam Schomer and produced by i2iProductions, the four-part documentary series "Selling Superman" dives deep into the story behind what would become known as the The FANTAST Collection; a collection of more than 300,000 comic books that were collected by Michigan attorney Dale Watts whose obsession provided an escape from the pressures of his professional life but ultimately consumed him leading to a fractured family life and eventual divorce. The documentary not only chronicles the highs and lows of Watts's obsession but also explores its lasting impact on his son, Darren, as he grapples with the decision to sell his father's prized comic book collection following his death.
From the outset, the documentary dives into the history of the collection which was locked away in boxes and under blankets for 40 years by Dale who we ultimately learn suffered from the autism spectrum disorder, Asperger's syndrome. Darren is tasked with the extremely complex job of sorting through the collection which brings about painful memories from his childhood and a strained relationship with his father. Darren's emotional journey is poignant, and his reflections bring depth to the storytelling, making viewers contemplate the broader implications of obsession and legacy.
The pacing of the series is well-structured and Schomer's direction strikes a perfect balance between emotional gravity and moments of levity, making it relatable to both die-hard comic fans and those unfamiliar with the culture. Each episode delves deep into different aspects of the journey behind sorting, chronicling, and ultimately selling Dale's collection and we are introduced to trusted comic book enthusiasts who are brought on board to help including father & son team, Dale & Josh Crisman of "Hatchback Comics" and vintage comic book seller, Harley Yee of "Harley Yee Rare Comics".
One of the documentary's standout elements is its exploration of the comic book industry itself. Interviews with experts, fellow collectors, and industry insiders provide context about the rising value of comics including particularly rare issues from Dale's collection such as "Superman No. 1" (1939) and "Detective Comics No. 27" (1939). This backdrop - including an incident that threatens to derail the entire documentary - adds an extra layer of intrigue to Darren's dilemma, as he weighs the financial implications of selling against the emotional weight of his father's legacy.
Overall, "Selling Superman" provides a compelling look of the compexities of obsession, family, and loss. It invites viewers to reflect on what we inherit from our loved ones and the sometimes painful choices that come along with it. As Darren stands at the crossroads of selling his father's collection, the film leaves us with lingering questions about identity, value, and the legacies we choose to carry forward. It's a heartfelt tribute that resonates long after the final credits roll, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the human stories behind the things we love.
"Selling Superman" is currently available for pre-order at SellingSuperman.com and includes 4 Episodes, 6 Bonus Features, and a Special Q&A panel with a surprise moderator.
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