Elseworld's Finest: Supergirl & Batgirl is a 1998 DC Comics Elseworlds one-shot exploring an alternate universe where Batgirl rules Gotham and Supergirl teams with the Justice Society to rescue Lex Luthor.

Overview

Published in September 1998, Elseworld's Finest: Supergirl & Batgirl is a prestige-format comic written by Barbara Kesel, Tom Simmons, and Matt Haley, with art by Matt Haley. It is set in an alternate universe where Bruce Wayne never became Batman and Kal-El (Superman) did not survive infancy. In this reality, Barbara Gordon becomes Gotham’s near-dictatorial protector as Batgirl, while Kara Zor-El (Supergirl) operates alongside Lex Luthor and the Justice Society of America (JSA).

Plot Summary

In this story, Gotham City is tightly controlled by Batgirl, who enforces a strict embargo against metahumans entering the city. The Justice Society and Supergirl arrive to escort Lex Luthor to a public tribute at Gotham Arena, celebrating his contributions to bio-electric solar energy technology. However, Luthor is kidnapped by the Joker and Professor Emil Hamilton, who enhances the Joker’s strength with a steroid-like serum. Hamilton seeks revenge on Luthor for taking credit for his discoveries, while the Joker is motivated by his crush on Batgirl.
Supergirl defies Batgirl’s ban on metahumans to rescue Luthor, leading to a tense confrontation between the two heroines. They must overcome their differences and work together, ultimately uncovering secrets Luthor had been hiding and realizing that, despite their contrasting methods, they share a common heroic purpose.

Characters

• Batgirl (Barbara Gordon): Gotham’s authoritarian protector, distrustful of metahumans and willing to enforce strict control over the city.
• Supergirl (Kara Zor-El): Raised by Wonder Woman in this universe, she is idealistic and determined to act against injustice, even when it conflicts with Batgirl’s rules.
• Lex Luthor: Philanthropist and scientist whose solar energy innovations are central to the plot.
• Joker: Enhanced by a steroid-like serum, he kidnaps Luthor and seeks Batgirl’s attention.
• Professor Emil Hamilton: Luthor’s former partner, motivated by revenge.
• Justice Society of America: Includes Wonder Woman, who mediates and introduces Supergirl to Gotham.

Themes and Style

The comic explores themes of authority versus idealism, the morality of vigilantism, and the complexity of heroism in a world without Superman or Batman. It is notable for its action-driven narrative and the dynamic between two strong female protagonists, highlighting their contrasting approaches to justice.

Publication and Legacy

This one-shot is part of DC’s Elseworlds imprint, which allows creators to explore alternate realities and “what if” scenarios. It is considered one of the first team-ups of Supergirl and Batgirl following the Crisis on Infinite Earths event, offering a fresh take on the World’s Finest concept. The comic is available digitally on DC Universe Infinite and in print editions.

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