What If Marvel was Real?

Latest Episodes:

Episode 57: Forever Young (Tales to Astonish #43) -- May 1963 Jul 30, 2021

Show notes

In this episode:

In this episode, Mike and Ed discuss Elias Weems, the scientist-criminal who was recently given a suspended sentence on the recommendation of Ant-Man. Weems has invented a device that can age and de-age anyone in its path. Will the ray be commercialized? What would a society where no one aged look like?

In this issue:

Professor Elias Weems is unceremoniously fired by his lab because he is over 65 years old. Angry and hurt, he turns his genius to inventing a machine that will make others old, too. He succeeds in his maniacal quest - pretty quickly - and starts using it on animals and then people. He thereafter threatens to age everyone in the city if it is not turned over to him. Ant-Man is looped into the caper and, after visiting various labs in town, zeroes in on Weems. They battle, and Ant-Man is prematurely aged by Weems’s aging ray. Weems finally realizes the errors of his ways when he accidentally ages his beloved grandson Tommy. Fortunately, Ant-Man has figured out how to reverse the ray’s aging process, returning everyone to their proper ages. At his sentencing, Ant-Man (whose identity is not known to the general public), speaks on behalf of Weems. His old boss actually hires him back, having realized it was wrong to discriminate against Weems.

Assumed before the next episode:

The world is shocked and intrigued at the prospect of being prematurely aged and de-aged.

This episode takes place:

After people have learned that technology exists to prematurely age people - and to make them younger.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superserious616.com

Episode 56: Saving the world and kissing babies (Tales of Suspense #41) -- May 1963 Jul 28, 2021

Show notes

In this episode:

In this episode, Mike and Ed talk about how Iron Man has saved the world again - this time from the mad scientist Dr. Strange (not who you think). The hosts cover Iron Man’s positioning as both a world saver and trusted local public figure. Also, apparently there are now force fields that will stop atomic weapons - what does that mean for missile defense?

In this issue:

Tony Stark is living the life as a world famous man about town. He is fixated on building weapons for the army while also moonlighting as crimefighter and general do-gooder Iron Man. In his spare time, Iron Man cheers up kids at the local hospital, too.

Meanwhile, science terrorist Dr. Strange hatches a plan to hypnotize Iron Man to break him out of prison. The plan comes to fruition, and Iron Man busts Dr. Strange out and flies him to his island stronghold. Dr. Strange then announces his world domination plans to the world. Iron Man, obviously feeling that this is a personal affront, breaks into Dr. Strange’s island stronghold and battles Dr. Strange. He nearly loses, but fortunately for him, Dr. Strange’s adult daughter betrays her megalomaniac father and helps Iron Man defeat her father.

Assumed before the next episode:

The world marvels at everyman Iron Man.

This episode takes place:

After Iron Man has defeated Dr. Strange.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superserious616.com

Episode 55: Crying wolf - Johnny Storm is alive! Also, Thor is a movie star? (Strange Tales #108 & Journey Into Mystery #92) -- June 1963 Jul 26, 2021

Show notes

In this episode:

In this episode, Mike and Ed discuss the ramifications of Johnny Storm lying about his death. Was it really necessary to defeat this villain? Also, Thor is starring in a new movie. Will “movie star” become a right of passage for every hero?

In this issue:

Strange Tales #108

Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, breaks up a robbery and helps put the criminals behind bars yet again. The criminal underworld is frustrated by the Torch’s heroic efforts. Just when they are about to give up hope on their morality free life, a strange man with the ability to bring his paintings to life shows up and offers his services. The Painter then battles the Torch with his strange and powerful paintings-come-to-life and seemingly kills him. The world mourns the young hero’s passing. Then, just when the Painter and his gang have let their guard down, the Torch re-appears, having faked his death. He destroys the Painter’s magic paints and brings the criminals to justice.

Journey into Mystery #92

Loki grits his teeth while imprisoned in Asgard. Meanwhile, a couple of thugs bring their injured colleague to see Dr. Donald Blake after hours and threaten him into removing two slugs from their friend. Blake secretly turns into Thor and captures the criminals. Thor then goes to Norway to work on a movie as himself. Loki, watching all of this happen, somehow causes Thor’s hammer Mjolnir to veer off course and head from Norway to Asgard, where it shatters the chains keeping him imprisoned in Asgard. Thor is afraid that he will revert to Blake after being apart from his hammer for more than 60 seconds. Fortunately, Odin hears Thor’s silent prayers and scoops his son up and transports him to Asgard, where he will remain Thor despite having lost his hammer. Thor figures out that Loki must be behind his hammer going missing, and hunts for his brother. He recovers his hammer, and Loki is captured once more.

Assumed before the next episode:

The world learns that Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, is not dead - it was all a cruel and unnecessary ruse. Also, people hear that Thor is filming a movie as himself.

This episode takes place:

After the world has learned that the Human Torch faked his death to capture a B level villain, and after they have heard about Thor’s attempted transition to movie stardom.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superserious616.com

Episode 54: The Death of a Hero (Strange Tales #108) -- May 1963 Jul 23, 2021

Show notes

In this episode:

Mike and Ed discuss the death of Johnny Storm, the Human Torch. What does it mean when a superhero dies? Does it matter that Storm was just a teenager? The hosts discuss how everything has seemed like fun and games until the deadly seriousness of fighting crime brings everything into focus.

In this issue:

Assumed before the next episode:

The world mourns the passing of Johnny Storm, the Human Torch.

This episode takes place:

After the “death” of the Human Torch has been announced.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superserious616.com

Episode 53: The Space Race and who technically, maybe, won it (Fantastic Four #13) -- April 1963 Jul 21, 2021

Show notes

In this episode:

In this episode, Mike and Ed discuss the return of the Fantastic Four after their pioneering exploration of the moon. Meanwhile, the Soviets ALSO claim to be the first to reach the moon. Who is lying? Also: the Soviets have finally created their own superheroes. What does this mean for everyday Americans?

In this issue:

Reed Richards decides that the Fantastic Four should travel to the Blue Area of the moon in order to win the space race with the Russians. Meanwhile, Russian scientist Ivan Kragoff, the “Red Ghost”, decides that he, too, should travel to the moon and claim it in the name of his country. His team is rounded out by his well trained but poorly treated ape, orangutan, and baboon, and they all develop powers due to cosmic radiation as they fly into space, much like the Fantastic Four did. Kragoff and his team actually appear to make it to the moon first.

The two teams then meet on the Blue Area of the moon in the remnants of a deserted ancient city where they can breath air normally. They do battle until the Watcher, an ancient cosmic being with incredible powers, explains his role of observing humanity and why he has decided to interrupt this dispute. The Watcher separates the teams, and they each continue to explore the ancient city on the moon. The teams do battle once more, with he Fantastic Four coming out on top. The four leave, with Kragoff and his team of sapient stranded on the moon.

Assumed before the next episode:

The world considers who really made it to the moon first.

This episode takes place:

After the Fantastic Four have announced their triumphant return from the moon and tried to explain why it is technically more important to have travelled to and from the moon, rather than just travel to the moon as the Russians did.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superserious616.com

Episode 52: How to be a (successful) superhero (Tales of Suspense #40) -- April 1963 Jul 19, 2021

Show notes

In this episode:

In this episode, Mike and Ed discuss the latest superhero to take the stage: the Invincible Iron Man. Ed argues that Iron Man is better than any hero that has come before him in managing his public relations. The hosts explore the differences between Iron Man, Spider-Man, Ant Man, Thor, and the Fantastic Four, and suggest that Iron Man has learned from his previous mistakes. Also: is the latest attack really an alien invasion, or is the “alien claim” the best way to jump into being a “tier one” hero?

In this issue:

Tony Stark is lauded the world over for his genius and accomplishments, all the while remaining at the top of the list of the world’s most eligible and sought after bachelors. Unbeknownst to his adoring public, Stark is also Iron Man, scourge of mobsters and science criminals alike. Stark figures out that his drab gray Iron Man costume scares the people he has sworn to protect, which leads him to painting his costume bright gold. Adventure awaits this new, golden avenger of wrongs. First up is the mystery of the walled-in town. Iron Man investigates and learns that Gargantus has not only taken over the town but also hypnotized its residents into worshiping him. Iron Man challenges Gargantus to a battle and easily defeats him, learning in the process that Gargantus was actually a robot sent by aliens to subjugate the Earth.

Assumed before the next episode:

People are thrilled with Iron Man’s prettier costume - gold is really in these days.

This episode takes place:

After Iron Man has gone from grey to gold, and also secured his first big win against aliens.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superserious616.com

Episode 51: De-Powering (Journey Into Mystery #91) -- April 1963 Jul 16, 2021

Show notes

In this episode:

Mike and Ed discuss how it is possible to “lose powers” once someone has them. Mike argues that some powers may have their origin in “magic”, while Ed argues that magic is just a word we use for things we do not understand. We estimate how many super-powered individuals exist right now, and make predictions for how many more we will see in the coming months.

In this issue:

Loki chomps at the bit to cause mayhem, but is prevented from leaving Asgard. And so he decides to cause trouble by given extraordinary powers to a carnival performer named Sandhu. Suddenly, Sandhu is able to levitate and teleport items. Sandhu moves on from simple tricks to trying to take over the world. Thor steps in but is easily bested, with Sandhu dropping a building on him. Thor is able to break free and continue battling Sandhu, ultimately causing Sandhu to suffer a mental breakdown and lose his powers.

Assumed before the next episode:

The world has recovered from the brief threat posed by the mighty Sandhu.

This episode takes place:

After Sandhu tries to take over the world and is defeated by Thor.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superserious616.com

Episode 50: The Difference Between Orange and Green (Fantastic Four #12 & Tales of Suspense #39) -- March 1963 Jul 14, 2021

Show notes

In this episode:

Mike and Ed discuss the “un-pardoning” of the Hulk; how to use super-powered individuals as checks on other super-powered individuals; decentralization; how the Fantastic Four is financed; and the risk the Soviet Union poses to our scientists and industrialists (including a missing Tony Stark). Also, why can’t the military tell the difference between the Thing and the Hulk?

In these issues:

Fantastic Four #12

The military, while marching through New York City (what???), bump into the Thing, mistake him for the Hulk (again, what???), and try to capture him. They realize their error, and the Thing goes home to the Baxter Building where he breaks some things and sulks. General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross then stops by and asks the Fantastic Four to help him find the Hulk, as he has apparently destroyed a military cannon. The team agree, and they head to Ross’s military base with him. While there, they consult with Dr. Bruce Banner, who tries to convince Ross that the Hulk did not damage the cannon. The Four leave on their mission. Meanwhile, Rick Jones goes sifts through the wallet of Banner’s assistant Karl Kort and finds a membership card in a “subversive communist-front organization”. Kort appears over his shoulder, basically admits that he was the saboteur, “the Wrecker”, and pulls a gun on Jones. Kort then sends a note addressed to the Hulk, which Banner finds, telling him to drive the Fantastic Four away or he will never see Jones again. Banner turns into the Hulk and gets into a fight with the Four. He is defeated, but only because Kort shot the Hulk with a ray gun. The Four then take Kort down and are given an honor guard by the military.

Tales of Suspense #39

Tony Stark, a world famous inventor and playboy, demonstrates his latest invention to the military - tiny transistors that can increase the force of any device a thousandfold. He is then captured in Vietnam and injured. His captors demand that he invent a powerful new weapon for him before he will allow his surgeon to save his life. Stark agrees and, working with the world’s greatest physicist Dr. Yinsen (who is also a prisoner), he invents a suit of armor which saves his life. Yinsen sacrifices his life for Stark, who then escapes while using his new “Iron Man” exoskeleton.

Assumed before the next episode:

People are wondering why American scientists keep getting kidnapped.

This episode takes place:

After the Hulk has dropped down the super-celebrity rankings, and people have breached a sigh of relief when Tony Stark returns to America safe and sound.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superserious616.com

Episode 49: Superhero Mergers and Acquisitions (Amazing Spiderman #1, Part 2) -- March 1963 Jul 12, 2021

Show notes

In this episode:

Mike and Ed discuss the rumors that Spider-Man has applied to join the Fantastic Four. What are the requirements for joining this superhero team? Why Reed Richards considering expansion? Are there synergies by bringing Spider-Man onboard? What are the risks based on Spider-Man’s recent reputation issues? Mike and Ed also make a bet on where the team will be by the end of the year.

In this issue:

Peter Parker recounts his origin story as Spider-Manto himself, and how he went from being a celebrity superhuman to enemy #1 according to J. Jonah Jameson of the Daily Bugle. He then attends the rocket launch of J. Jonah Jameson’s son John. The rocket has been sabotaged, and the only way to rescue John is if a guidance doohickey is inserted into the rocket. Spider-Man volunteers for this dangerous mission and, in a stunning series of classic Ditko art, is able to insert the doohickey and save the day. Despite his amazing heroics, Spider-Man is still branded a menace by the Daily Bugle, and the FBI is on the lookout for him.

Spider-Man nonetheless continues trying to live the superhero life. He breaks into the Baxter Building and tries to join the Fantastic Four. He is dismayed to find out that he would not make any money as a member of the team, and leaves in a huff. Meanwhile, the supervillain the Chameleon, who can disguise himself as anyone he wants, frames Spider-Man and commits a robbery. Spider-Man chases the Chameleon down and battles him, ultimately leading to the Chameleon being taken into custody. Spider-Man is victorious, but remains a menace to the world at large.

Assumed before the next episode:

Spider-Man’s potential addition to the Fantastic Four is being discussed throughout the world. Is a Fantastic Five in our future?

This episode takes place:

After news of this new, potential, Fantastic Five has leaked.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superserious616.com

Episode 48: The Amazing Vigilante (Amazing Spider-Man #1, Part 1) -- March 1963 Jul 09, 2021

Show notes

In this episode:

In this episode Mike and Ed discuss the return of Spider-man. Why is the entertainer we loved last year running around punching criminals? Are the Daily Bugle’s attacks valid? Does the celebrity have a maturity problem? We recommend next steps if the Spiderman wants to salvage his career.

In this issue:

Assumed before the next episode:

People are wondering why Spider-Man, that charming guy on the TV, is suddenly so bad.

This episode takes place:

After Spider-Man has performed two amazing heroic acts for which he does not receive any credit.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superserious616.com