Usually the POP Cover Of The Week features and examines one cover from each week's new releases. But this week, DC is commemorating Robin's 80th Anniversary with an oversized "Super Spectacular" issue with covers representing every decade of the Boy Wonder's publication life, including the character's many different incarnations. Each cover is COTW-worthy, so they all get featured!
Each cover's trade dress (the comic title logo, publisher's logo, and type treatments) faithfully reflects graphics used in that decade.
Robin sure knew how to make an entrance, when he burst through a circus hoop on Bob Kane's cover for Detective Comics #38 in 1940. Jim Lee pays homage to that classic cover, although he has drawn Robin flashing a handsign that wouldn't exist for a few more decades.
In the 1950s variant, note the cool costume details, including eyelets for the lace-up vest and boots, scales on his trunks, and high-and-tight haircut. Batman's costume strongly resembles the one worn in the movie serials.
Dustin Nguyen's variant reflects the day-glo, pop art movement of the 1960s, highlighted in the Batman TV series, represented by a glimpse of the show's iconic Batmobile. There's even an appearance by the Comics Code Authority stamp.
Robin gets his own signal on the 1980s variant.
The 1980s variant features Carrie Kelly, Frank MIller's alternate future version of Robin, in a cover homage to the Dark Knight Returns #1. Where's her famous slingshot?
The 1990s variant features new Robin Tim Drake and his signature battle staff.
The 2000s variant features the tragically short-lived Robin, Stephanie Brown.
The 2010s variant is a collection of all the Robins, including Jason Todd, and the current Robin, Damian Wayne, son of Bruce Wayne and Talia al Ghul. THERE'S Carrie's slingshot!
The main cover art by Lee Weeks uses a graphic technique known as the Fadeaway, examined in a POP COMICS ART article you can read here.
Robin 80th Anniversary, a 100-page Super Spectacular from DC Comics, is available Wednesday, March 18, 2020.