Secret Origins: The Age of Heroes

It was 2007, when I was just four years old, that I was first introduced to the world of superheroes. My childhood playground was Cartoon Network and Boomerang, where I was mesmerised by shows like The Batman (2004), Loonatics Unleashed (2005), Ben 10 (2005), Teen Titans (2003), and Justice League/ Justice League Unlimited (2001). I would consume these shows whenever and wherever I could—on the off days from kindy or nightly after dinner, where I could be found begging my parents to let me stay up until 8PM to watch JLU, which aired directly after Teen Titans on Boomerang. It was an era I fondly refer to as the ‘golden age’ for superhero cartoons, and even though Bruce Timm’s DC Animated Universe had since been completed, the constant reruns were my gateway into this colourful universe.

Photo: Warner Bros. Entertainment (2004)

What my poor parents thought was a passing phase quickly turned into a full-blown obsession. Every shopping trip inevitably included a stop at Toys ‘R’ Us, where I’d eagerly beg them for the latest DCAU action figures, which I still own and are now worth a small fortune. I have fond memories of my mom scouring every Myer in Perth just to track down a Stargirl figurine that I simply had to have after seeing her in Justice League Unlimited. 

In 2011, my Robin costume was practically a second skin. I’d zip around the neighbourhood in a mask, genuinely convinced I was Batman’s trusty sidekick. To this day, Jason Todd and Tim Drake, the second and third incarnations of the Robin character, remain the DC characters I resonate with the most. They not only sculpted my childhood but also ignited real-world passions. My fascination with gymnastics, which has stayed with me as my favourite sport even though I no longer train, was inspired by Robin’s acrobatic feats.

Looking back at 21, it’s clear how profoundly these characters have influenced who I am today. The superhero genre has a profound potential to impact the values of the audience, with ‘adult truths behind the more basic childhood memories’. My moral compass and sense of self are characteristics I largely attribute to the heroes of the Justice League, Teen Titans and The Team from Young Justice (2010). Their stories and values have left a lasting impression on me, shaping my own principles and outlook on life.

In 2024, I’m still completely immersed in the superhero universe. I’ve just finished what might be my 20th rewatch of Young Justice, and I’m a dedicated fan of the sadly now-ended DC Extended Universe, which gave us cinematic gems like Batman V Superman (2016), Wonder Woman (2017), and Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021). For me, staying young at heart means clinging to my love for superheroes, and I hope I never have to truly grow up. After all, embracing these larger-than-life heroes is a big part of who I am.