Batman Eternal #52 Review

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Batman, Batman Eternal, Batman Eternal #52, comics, DC Comics, James Tynion IV, Kyle Higgins, Ray Fawkes, Scott Snyder, The Court of Owls, The New 52, Tim Seeley

Batman Eternal #52

Review by Paul Bowler

Gotham City is a raging inferno of chaos. Batman confronted the supposed mastermind at Beacon Tower, the Cluemaster. With the Dark Knight exhausted and beaten, Cluemaster was about to shoot Batman when the true mastermind emerged from the shadows… Lincoln March, the villain behind the Court of Owls storyline, the man who claimed he was Bruce’s brother, Thomas Wayne Jr! Dressed in his Court of Owls armour, March slit Cluemaster’s throat. Now, while Batman’s allies and the GCPD fight to save the city, the Dark Knight must confront his nemesis as the final battle between these erstwhile brothers begins…

The lives of Batman, his allies, his enemies, and even the city of Gotham itself, have become the focus of this landmark DC Comics weekly series as the Dark Knight’s world has been explored like never before over the course of this year-long event. The Bat-Epic concludes here in Batman Eternal #52, with a story from writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, script also by Tynion, along with consulting writers Ray Fawkes, Kyle Higgins and Tim Seeley, in this special extra sized issue as Batman Eternal reaches its thrilling climax.

Batman Eternal #52 gives us only moments to recover from last issue shocking cliff-hanger, with an ominous flashback to The Night of the Owls and a fortuitous meeting at Harbor House, before the action-packed showdown between Batman and Lincoln March takes centre stage. While it may have been Cluemaster’s plan, it was actually Lincoln March that funded the entire operation with the resources he plundered from The Court of Owls. Now as the confrontation between March and Batman atop Beacon Tower takes to the air, this violent reunion between these supposed Wayne brothers soon comes crashing down to earth, and the location for their final battle proves a fittingly apt battleground for “Eternal” to play out on.

The pace of this issue doesn’t let up for a moment. As the fate of Gotham City hangs in the balance, it’s up to Batman’s allies to do whatever they can to help the civilians escape from the carnage that has griped the city. With Penny One and Penny Two coordinating their efforts, Batwing, Red Robin, Bluebird, and Red Hood all have their work cut out for them, and even Batgirl must race to make a last minute rescue when she least expects it.

Batman Eternal #52 features a wealth of stunning artwork for this final issue provided by: Eduardo Pansica & Julio Ferreira, Robson Rocha & Guillermo Ortego, David Lafuente, Tim Seeley, and Ray Fakes (Artists), along with Allen Passalaoua, Gabe Eltaeb, John Kalisz, John Rauch (Colors), Steve Wands (Letters), with a stunning cover by Jae Lee & June Chung, and variant cover by Andy Kubert & Brad Anderson. The different artistic styles form a perfect cohesion between the striking visual and intricate plotting required for this final issue of Batman Eternal, as the year-long storyline draws to a close. The collective work produced here is staggering, every scene builds towards the glorious moment where Jim Gordon address the city, whereby a clever twist inspired from events in Zero Year is utilized to create an urban victory for Gotham City as dozens of Bat-Signals light up the sky. It’s a rousing scene, and one of Batman Eternals finest moments ever!

With new allies joining the fray to help the Bat-Family, Commissioner Bard and the GCPD also receive some unexpected help, Spoiler faces her most life changing decision of all, and Batman’s fight with Lincoln March reaches a crucial juncture. Ever since Lincoln March’s fate and supposedly true identity as Thomas Wayne Jr was left unresolved in Batman #11, the characters return has been long expected, and the flashback to his encounter with Cluemaster brings further insight into the role he played in orchestrating the events in Batman Eternal.

The fight between Batman and Lincoln is a savage, brutal, no-holds-barred struggle, but even though Batman’s rag-tad suit is hardly a match for Lincoln’s armour, Bruce fights on, even when it seems everything is lost. It proves how indomitable the legacy of the Dark Knight really is, despite everything Bruce has had taken away from him: be it the gadgets, the money, whether being driven to the brink of physical and mental exhaustion, or even having the cape and cowl ripped away, Bruce Wayne is still the Batman, with or without all the trappings, and his personal resolve, strength, faith in his allies, and his dedication to city he is sworn to protect remains as unbreakable as the night that fateful gunshot rang out in crime alley.

So much has happened over the last year: Commissioner Gordon was framed and sentenced to life in Blackgate for unwittingly causing the subway train accident that killed over one hundred Gotham citizens, Selina Kyle went from cat burglar to Gotham’s new Kingpin of crime, Wayne Manor was transformed into a new Arkham Asylum after the latter was destroyed following an explosive supernatural event, a nano-virus wreaked havoc in the Narrows of Gotham, and the Dark Knight and his allies were tested to the limit as they battled the villains of Batman’s rogues gallery in their quest to discover the mastermind behind it all. Sure, there were a few issues where the focus of the plot meandered a little, some characters story arcs were better developed than others, but overall I think Batman Eternal provided a really gripping and exciting storyline, one that has – for the most part at least – delivered the goods week after week.

The resolution to the fight between Batman and Lincoln March is another of Batman Eternals standout moments. While perhaps not exactly the battle royal we might’ve been hoping for, that magnificent two-page spread during the major turning point of the fight is an absolute killer moment, and the scene which follows afterwards between Jim Gordon and Batman sums everything up perfectly. From here Batman Eternal gradually winds down though a series of codas that neatly ties up some loose ends and sets up some potential storylines for the future. The times they are a changing in Gotham: especially for Jason Bard and Vicky Vale, Batman and Catwoman, Penguin, Batwing, Barbara, Jason Todd, and Harper and her new flatmate, but my favourite closing scene was a particularly fun moment between Stephanie Brown and Red Robin.

As for Lincoln March..? Well, let’s just say the past has a very nasty way of catching up with him. Ironic really, considering how Lincoln thought the Cluemaster was nothing more than a second-rate nobody, that it is Lincoln March who eventually suffers the indignity and horror of becoming the greatest nobody of all…

Batman Eternal has been a milestone comic book event, the scope of this weekly series has been immense, and the all star creative team of writers Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV, Ray Fawkes, Jason Fabok, John Layman, and Tim Seeley, together with a host of superb artists including – Jason Fabok, Dustin Nguyen, Andrea Mutti, and more – have brought readers an intricately plotted and visually impressive series that has successfully managed to keep us guessing about the true identity of the villain behind everything right up until the penultimate issue

With everything in Batman Eternal taking place before the current events unfolding in Batman Endgame, the fallout from this year-long series is sure to influence the shape of things to come. We still have Batman #40 and the face-off between the Batman and the Joker on the cards for the finale of Endgame, then we’ve got the intriguing prospect of an “All New Batman” debuting in Batman #41, and if all that wasn’t enough for us to look forward to Batman Eternal Season 2 is also on the way. This second Batman Eternal storyline will be focused more on Robin and the characters that have been involved in the Dark Knights legacy as Robins, and it will be a major story event that will celebrate Robin’s 75th Anniversary!

The last page of Batman Eternal is magnificent point to close on. Over the last year we’ve seen how the Dark Knights world has gradually been torn down around him. Now, as Batman and Jim Gordon look out across the Gotham skyline it becomes apparent just how far reaching the events of Batman Eternal have been for everyone involved. Its been a tough year for Batman and Gordon, nevertheless they stand ready, prepared to face whatever the future might hold, and carry on the good fight for Gotham one more time.

Batman Eternal #52 rounds off this year-long event in fine style, it provides an exciting finale to DC Comics weekly Batman series, and sets the scene for the next era of the Dark Knight legacy to begin in earnest.

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Batman Eternal #51 Review

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Alvaro Martinze, Batman, Batman Eternal, Batman Eternal #51, Cluemaster, comics, DC Comcis, James Tynion IV, June Chung, Kyle Higgins, Raul Fernandez, Ray Fawkes, Scott Snyder, Tim Seeley

Batman Eternal #51

Review by Paul Bowler

Gotham City is burning. The crisis is spiralling out of control, villains are running wild, even the Dark Knights allies are struggling to cope. As the GCPD plan their next move, Catwoman reinforces her authority as Gotham’s Kingpin of crime. Batman raced to the Beacon Tower to confront the mastermind behind it all – the Cluemaster! Now, beaten and tied to the shattered Bat-Signal, it would seem that Batman has been completely outwitted and utterly defeated by Cluemaster. But is Cluemaster really the master criminal, or is there another waiting to be revealed..?

Cluemaster has emerged from the shadows as the major antagonist of Batman Eternal! Now the fallout from last issues cliff-hanger unfolds in Batman Eternal #51, in this story from writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, featuring a great script also by James Tynion IV, and consulting writers Ray Fawkes, Kyle Higgins and Tim Seeley, as the year long weekly Batman series’ penultimate issue delvers its most shocking twist of all!

Bound to the Bat-Signal, Batman must endure yet more hardship as his identity is callously stripped away, it echoes the opening moments from Batman Eternal #1, and Cluemaster is certainly not messing about either. While he basks in the glory of his apparent victory, we learn how Cluemaster set about brining his grand scheme together. Its ingenious to say the least, it seem the misdirection it caused worked both ways, and its staggering to think what this second-rate Riddler-knock off has managed to achieve.

Meanwhile, the Bat-Family do what they can to help the citizens of Gotham, but they cannot be everywhere at once. As Catwoman cracks the whip to keep the crime families in line, over at the GCPD, the situation looks grim, and its up to Jim Gordon to inspire Commissioner Bard to step up to the plate and be the commissioner the city needs. The brief interlude featuring Bluebird and Spoiler is a great moment for both characters, Harper’s exchange with Stephanie is rooted in the very essence of everything Batman stands for, and it’s a great defining moment for Bluebird – and its one that makes me like the character more than ever.

The art by Alvaro Martinze is stunning, every scene from Tynion’s exciting script is stylishly rendered, and the action flows seamlessly along at a cracking pace. The opening scenes are ablaze with high-drama, with the cape and cowl fluttering down into the flaming streets, before events shift between Catwoman’s nightclub, the GCPD, and finally Harper’s confrontation with Spoiler. Alvaro Martinze’s superbly conveys the flashbacks detailing Cluemaster’s scheme with his cohorts, and the ferocity of Bruce’s battle with Cluemaster is also really intense and brutal. Raul Fernandez’s inks enhance every detail, and the colors by June Chung are really bold and striking.

Of course the Bat is never defeated is he? As we might have expected Batman manages to get free and give Cluemaster a good kicking, but in his weakened state even the Dark Knight struggles, his punches lack power, and the moment Cluemaster has been waiting for is finally here. So, is the Cluemaster really the big-bad of Batman Eternal, or has this been just another red herring to keep us all guessing? Well, although he may have brought Batman to the brink of his greatest defeat, let’s just say that Cluemaster soon finds out just how cutthroat and unpredictable things can get when you attempt to step up into the big league of the major villains!

The year-long Bat-Epic is almost over! Batman Eternal #51 is terrific issue, by the final, shocking page, this issue will have sunk its claws in deep, and you will be left reeling by another shocking surprise cliff-hanger!

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Batman Eternal #50 Review

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Alvaro Martinze, Bane, Batman, Batman Eternal, Batman Eternal #50, DC Comics, James Tynion IV, June Chung, Kyle Higgins, Ray Fawkes, Reul Fernandez, Scott Snyder, The New 52, Tim Seeley

Batman Eternal #50

Review by Paul Bowler

Gotham is in turmoil, the Penguin has instigated a riot in Blackgate, and villains are running amok in the city. Hush escaped and corrupted the Bat-Tec but Alfred managed to defeat him. Batman and his allies must coordinate their efforts to save Gotham City as Commissioner Bard leads a team from GCPD to rescue Gordon from Blackgate. Now, as the city burns, the Dark Knight must prepare to confront the mastermind behind it all…

Its non-stop action all the way in Batman Eternal #50, in this story from writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, with script also by James Tynion IV, and consulting writers Ray Fawkes, Kyle Higgins and Tim Seeley, as this year long Bat-Epic nears its conclusion.

As the dust settle over last issues Robo-Suit-Bane Vs. Batman-In-A-Jet Fighter cliff-hanger, Batman gets a quick update of the situation in Gotham via Penny One in the Bat-Cave and Penny Two in Robin’s Nest, before setting out to end the chaos and deal with the Rogue’s Galley of villains currently giving the Bat-Family a run for their money after Hush disable their Bat-Tec. Batman isn’t messing about either, he goes up against the Scarecrow, Mr Freeze, and Clayface, using highly effective and even brutal methods to bring them down.

Commissioner Bard shouldn’t have worried so much about Gordon either. Jim’s more than capable of looking after himself, after all he’s weathered far worse things than this riot in Blackgate in his time, and it seems his marine training and the well heeded advice of an old friend has served him very well indeed here.

This is one hell of a fast-paced issue. Alvaro Martinze’s art really conveys the intense pace as events unfold in quick succession: we’ve the aftermath of Batman’s confrontation with Bane, the riot in Blackgate, showdowns with the Dark Knights deadliest foes, and Martinez also get to pack in some pretty spectacular scenes of carnage as well – especial when another villain with a penchant for fire takes to the skies as Gotham burns! Raul Fernandez’s inks also highlight the finer details in every scene, and the colors by June Chung are rich and vibrant throughout.

The refitted Wayne-Tec drones Penny One and Penny Two use to bring Batman a citywide update of the situation may have allowed the Dark Knight to help his allies, but the identity of who is actually behind everything that’s happened in Gotham remains a frustratingly elusive quandary for Batman. Its not often we see the Dark Knight like this, exhausted, worn down, and angry as hell, he becomes as ruthlessly efficient at dealing with his enemies in this issue as he does at barking out orders to the rest of the Bat-Family. There are some lighter moments though. Red Hood’s quip after Bane is defeated is fun, as is Red Robin’s comment about being offline, and Batgirl gets to show off because she didn’t need any help to defeat her opponent.

Batman Eternal #50 delivers this weekly series’ most shocking surprise of all during its closing moments. It is here, as the final pieces of the puzzle begin to fall into place, that Batman races to Beacon Tower for a confrontation with the hidden nemesis that has been responsible for all the events in Batman Eternal. The fact this moments takes place in front of the shattered Bat-Signal makes it all the more powerful and symbolic. This is an absolutely cracking issue of Batman Eternal. The clues have indeed been there right from the beginning and with only two issues remaining everything is now in place for a stunning finale to this weekly series!

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Batman Eternal #40 Review

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Batman, Batman Eternal, Batman Eternal #40, Batman Eternal #40 Review, Catwoman, comics, Davide Furno, DC Comics, Edward Nygma, James Tynion IV, John Kalisz, Kyle Higgins, Paolo Armitano, Scott Snyder, The Riddler, Tim Seeley

Batman Eternal #40

Review by Paul Bowler

The stakes are raised even higher in Batman Eternal #40, especially now that Batman no longer has the assets of Wayne Enterprises at his disposal. Given access to the Dark Knight’s secret weapons and resources by an unknown backer, a group of Batman’s deadliest foes are now ready to embark on a violent crime spree in Gotham. Having followed Riddler’s clues to his hideaway on Miller Mountain, Batman confronted the Riddler, but determined to avoid returning to Gotham at all costs Nygma detonated explosive charges and caused an avalanche. Now while Batman and Riddler battle to survive against the elements, Catwoman decides on a new course of action; and Vicky Vale must confront the treacherous intern Patrick in the offices of the Gotham Gazette.

Events really kick into high gear in Batman Eternal #40, in this action-packed issue by writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, with script by Ray Fawkes, and consulting writers Kyle Higgins, and Tim Seeley, as the specially chosen members of Batman’s rogues gallery prepare to unleash carnage on Gotham while the Dark Knight finds himself locked in a deadly battle for survival with the Riddler as conditions on the mountain deteriorate.

Turn and Turn Again begins as Penny Two’s voice crackles over the airwaves following the avalanche, the bleak mountainside seems unsettlingly still, until Batman finally responds. Batman and the Riddler have been engulfed by the avalanche that Edward Nygma triggered; now Batman must help his old foe as they attempt to escape from the mountain. Meanwhile, back in Gotham, the group of Batman’s enemies can hardly believe their luck as they begin planning how to use the Dark Knight’s secret arsenal which has just been handed to them on a plate. Now that Catwoman runs more of city than anyone could ever know, Gotham’s new Kingpin of crime decides she wants no part in the proposition which she, and her former associates, have been offered via the speaker system by their mysterious benefactor. However, Catwoman soon discovers that life at the top in Gotham City can be brutal and deadly!

The Art by Davide Furno and Paolo Armitano captures the harsh frozen landscape of the mountain scenes perfectly, and you really get a sense of the danger Batman and Riddler face. The gritty urban environment of Gotham provides a stark contrast to events on the mountain, Furno and Armitano do a good job with these scenes featuring lots of Batman’s villains, and the tense excitement of Vicky Vale’s plight is another highlight of this issue. John Kalisz’s colors are also extremely good, brining added depth to every scene, particularly those on Miller Mountain.

There are some great scenes between Batman and the Riddler too, and it seems the Riddler’s not about to divulge his secrets anytime soon. We get to see how tough and resourceful Vicky Vale is when Patrick tries to kill her at the Gotham Gazette, and the subplot with Catwoman also develops an interesting, spoiler themed, twist that is sure to lead to some big developments down the line.

Batman Eternal #40 is another terrific instalment of this weekly series from DC Comics. This tautly plotted issue continues to build the mystery and suspense. It seems we are growing ever closer now to finding out who has been messing with Batman and secretly orchestrating events in Batman Eternal. With all hell breaking loose on Gotham’s streets, a short interlude with Jim Corrigan, and the final moments hinting that even darker times await Batman upon his return to Gotham, Batman Eternal #40 is an outstanding, and great looking issue.

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Batman Eternal #34 Review

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Alfred, Alvaro Martinez, Batman, Batman Eternal, Batman Eternal #34, Batman Eternal #34 Review, Brad Anderson, comics, DC Comics, Gotham, Hush, James Tynion IV, Julia Pennyworth, Kyle Higgins, Raul Fernandez, Ray Fawkes, Scott Snyder, The New 52, Tim Seeley, Wayne Enterprises

Batman Eternal #34

Review by Paul Bowler

With marshal law declared in Gotham City and the destruction of Arkham Asylum, Batman and his allies have discovered that Commissioner Bard was in league with Hush all along. Now Hush is targeting Batman’s secret weapons caches all over the city. In order to prevent Hush detonating more sites Batman and Alfred’s daughter, Julia, must split up and disable the explosives at each location. After Julia is confronted by Hush at the Cicero weapons cache, the Dark Knight races to the rescue, and events soon draw Batman towards a fateful showdown with Hush that could very well spell the end of Wayne Enterprises itself…

Julia Pennyworth battles valiantly against Hush in Batman Eternal #34, which sets in motion a chain of events that result in the Dark Knight’s world being shaken to the core like never before. State of Truth is another action packed issue of this weekly DC Comics series, with its densely plotted storyline from writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, script by Kyle Higgins, and consulting writers Ray Fawkes, and Tim Seeley, providing us with a nail biting fight between Penny Two and Hush that really galvanises Julia’s role in Batman Eternal and elevates her standing as one of Batman’s newest, and perhaps most trusted of allies.

The aforementioned fight is blisteringly violent, with no quarter given and none taken, and the ensuing aftermath – with the heightened tension caused by Julia’s plight – sees Batman facing a race against time to save her from an explosive end. The outcome is ingeniously devised, and there are a couple of heart stopping moments that will keep you guessing too.

With Lucius Fox dealing with the backlash against Wayne Enterprises because of its involvement with Batman’s hidden weapon caches, the Mayor and Commissioner Bard continue to put pressure on Fox to deal with the situation. Meanwhile in the cave, Batman notices that Hush has accessed another cache in a location that holds a great significance for both of them, one that inexorably leads them towards a decisive confrontation.

Alvaro Martinez does a great job with the art for Batman Eternal #34, together with Raul Fernandez’s Inks, and colors by Brad Anderson, they maintain this weekly series high standard of art to deliver a stylishly crafted issue that seamlessly brings a distinct tone and style to each of the key locations featured throughout the story. The intensity of the fight between Hush and Julia is superb, its edge of the seat stuff, and you feel like you are right there with Batman as he frantically claws through the rubble to find her. The scenes at Wayne Enterprises and the Batcave set everything up for the brutal showdown between Batman and Hush; which unfolds over the final pages utilising impressive and dynamic panel layouts that really draw you into the heart of the action.

Batman Eternal #34 continues to impress with its diverse cast of characters, great story and art, and this issue in particular propels the main story-arc towards a startling turning point that few could have predicted. Everything the Dark Knight stands for is about to come crashing down around him. This is one of the best issues so far in this weekly series, tautly scripted and visually striking, Batman Eternal #34 holds dark portents for Gotham, Gordon, and even Bruce Wayne as the full scale of Hush’s grand design finally becomes clear!

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Batman Eternal #23 Review

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Batman, Batman Eternal, Batman Eternal #23, Batman Eternal #23 Review, Blackgate Penitentiary, Catwoman, DC Comics, Derek Fridolfs, Dustin Nguyem, Hush, James Tynion IV, John Kalisz, Julia Pennyworth, Kyle Higgins, Ray Fawkes, Scott Snyder, The New 52, Tim Seeley

Batman Eternal #23

Review by Paul Bowler

Hush has returned to Gotham. He attacked Alfred in Wayne Manor, injecting a fear toxin directly into his brain. After discovering the Bat-Cave, Alfred’s daughter, Julia, must help Batman stop the Architect from destroying the Beacon Tower. With the newly appointed Commissioner Bard also corrupt, and secretly working with Hush, the evidence that could have proved Jim Gordon’s innocence has been destroyed. Now as the crime families vie for power, Catwoman’s secret past is finally revealed. The answers she seeks reside in Blackgate Penitentiary, where she must ultimately decide what her role in Gotham’s order of crime will be.

Batman Eternal #23 has a lot of ground to cover following the events of the last few issues, with the riot in Blackgate Penitentiary, Batman’s mission with Killer Croc and Bard in the sewers, Batwing and Jim Corrigan’s investigation at Arkham, and Batgirl’s quest to clear her fathers name, the action continues to unfold at a rapid pace as this weekly series shifts its focus towards Catwoman. With it’s intricately plotted storyline by writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, with script by Tim Seeley, and consulting writers Ray Fawkes, and Kyle Higgins, Batman Eternal #23 makes the most of its extensive cast of characters and locations as it draws together a number of ongoing plot threads and sets the stage for even bigger things to come.

When Catwoman interrupts the latest skirmish between Mr Ibanescue and Tiger Shark for control of Gotham’s black market, her attempt to rescue a snow leopard cub from the carnage at the east end train yards doesn’t go well. Unable to save the wounded leopard cub back at her apartment, Selina receives a surprise visit from Jade, Killer Croc’s young friend who fences supplies into Blackgate Penitentiary, and who now brings a message for Selina from an old friend.

Batman’s fight with the Architect, another associate of Hush, continues high atop the Beacon Tower. With Alfred hospitalised, the Dark Knight is now reliant on Penny-Two, Alfred’s daughter Julia to relay information to him from the Bat-Cave. Julia’s role is becoming increasingly vital to the Dark Knight, especially with Alfred out of action, and I like the dynamic that’s developing between her and Batman. As the showdown with the Architect reaches its climax, an earth shattering surprise awaits us, and its one that is sure to have big implications for Gotham’s future.

The majority of Batman Eternal #23 is cantered around Catwoman’s secret visit to Blackgate Penitentiary. With Jade’s help, Catwoman manages to gain access to the prison through a drainage pipe, where Rex Calabrese “The Lion” is waiting to meet her. After a furious exchange, where Catwoman’s past is brought into sharp focus, Rex reveals that Jade’s father was also a gangster, just like Selina’s… Rex knows that Gotham is in chaos without a kingpin to maintain the order, and is certain there is only one person who can now unite the families before they tear the city apart… I really like how this issue of Batman Eternal flows into the narrative of the events we saw in Batman 28, the special “spoiler issue” released mid-way through Zero Year, that showed how Catwoman would become the new Kingpin of Gotham City – and these scenes between Selina and Rex Calabrese in Batman Eternal #23 proved a nice precursor to these future events.

Dustin Nguyem’s artwork perfectly captures the dark, foreboding skyline of Gotham, from the brutality of the dogfight, to the griminess of Blackgate Penitentiary, and there is also get a brief interlude in the sewers with Killer Croc. The short scenes in Sliena’s apartment and those in the Bat-Cave with Julie, with their pristine interiors and high-tech gadgetry, highlight’s the oppressive presence of the city even further. Nguyem’s pencils bring a real sense of kinetic energy to the action, which together with Derek Fridolfs inks, and colorist John Kalisz, makes Batman Eternal #23 a darkly atmospheric and visually impressive issue, one that is epic in scale and packed with exciting character development to accentuate the big action sequences.

The return of Hush has brought an added sense of tension to main story arc in Batman Eternal. We also have Commissioner Bard’s betrayal, having already become close to Vicky Vale, the new commissioner is also in league with Hush, and continues to consolidate his position of power this issue by pressuring the Governor to declare marshal law in Gotham. With the crime war still escalating, Jim Gordon serving a life sentence in Blackgate Penitentiary, the ongoing haunting inside Arkham Asylum, together with the Nanovirus that’s been sweeping through the Narrows, and now the devastating attack on the Beacon Tower, the corrupt forces conspiring to destroy the Dark Knight and his allies are beginning to close in.

Batman Eternal #23 is another great issue; The Lioness is a multi-layered story, which, together with the dynamic artwork, continues to develop the ongoing plot in completely new and unexpected directions.

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Batman #34 Review

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Batman, Batman #34, Batman #34 Review, Batman Eternal, comics, DCComics, Gerry Duggan, Matteo Scalera, Scott Snyder, The New 52

Batman #34

Review by Paul Bowler

Now that Zero Year is over, and events in Batman: Eternal have caused major upheaval in Gotham City, Batman #34 finds the Dark Knight faced with task of tracking down a mysterious killer who has been secretly haunting the streets of Gotham for many years. Now with the GCPD turned against him and Jim Gordon in jail Batman must work quickly to solve the mystery behind these heinous crimes before the killer can strike again…

Following the thrilling conclusion of Zero Year, Batman #34 sees the series move forward in time to coincide directly with the events and continuity that will follow the conclusion of DC’s current weekly series, Batman Eternal. Batman #34 is a stand-alone story, written by Scott Snyder and co written by Gerry Duggan (Who is also writing this October’s new series Batman Arkham Manor), is a spooky detective mystery, one that offers an unsettling insight into the mind of a killers deranged psyche, with art by Matteo Scalera.

When a patient from Leslie Thompkins medical clinic goes missing, Batman suspects that a killer is operating in Leslie’s neighbourhood. Batman #34 reintroduces us to a Gotham City still in turmoil following the events of Batman Eternal: the GCPD are no longer his allies, Selina Kyle is now a Kingpin, and Jim Gordon is locked up in Blackgate for murder. Now it seems a killer has been at work in Gotham and Batman didn’t notice. Furious with himself, Batman resolves to find this murder who has, until now, managed to evade the Dark Knight’s sight.

The Meek is dark and disturbing tale, one that simultaneously brings us bang up to date with current events in Gotham City while also providing a seamless transition from Snyder’s and Capullo’s 12 issue re-imagining of the Dark Knight’s origin in Zero Year. With its excellent story by Scott Snyder and co-written by Gerry Duggan, Batman #34 sees the Dark Knight working in a Gotham where the status quo has now been drastically altered. While so much has changed for Batman its good to see him working with his old friend, Leslie Thompkins, the medical practitioner who runs a clinic for the neglected and impoverished, during his investigation.

One of the aspects I really liked about this issue was the unsettling way it actually gets under the skin of the killer himself. This average guy, a person no one would notice, whose everyday life is as entombed within the realm of darkness, death, and despair as the poor and impoverished lost souls that he preys on at night. He’s one sick, twisted individual, someone who just happens to have slipped between the cracks, an opportunist nobody ever sees, his crimes blending into the dark underbelly of Gotham City, unnoticed even by the Dark Knight himself.

Matteo Scalera (Deadpool, Black Science) provides the art for Batman #34, capturing the dark and foreboding atmosphere of this tale with a series of dynamic page layouts that really pull you into events as they unfold. Scalera’s rendition of the Dark Knight’s world is perfectly suited to the tone of this story: from the cavernous shadows of the Batcave, to the headstones of Potters Field with Gotham’s skyline looming ominously in the distance, the concisely delivered recap of Batman Eternal forms a sublime collage of interconnecting images as Batman swings over the city, and the finale offers a chilling descent into the full horror of the killers design. The subdued grey and brown tones employed by colorist Lee Loughridge serves to enhance this issues dark atmosphere even further, creating a grainy mix of light and shadow that makes Batman’s search for the killer seem even more intense.

The issue concludes with a razor sharp double edged coda. While the Meek is effectively dealt with, the full extent of his depraved appetite and the dark legacy which it ultimately unearths is enough to render even Batman speechless. By the time you reach this stunning final page by Matteo Scalera and Lee Loughridge, the full impact of this issues story really hits home, and it’s an image that’s sure to send a few chills down your spine.

Batman #34 is a great self-contained issue, Snyder, Duggan, Scalera, and Loughbridge have crafted a deliciously dark and macabre story, and it certainly delivers plenty of shocks and surprises. Next we have a glimpse five years into the future, with September’s special tie in issue Batman: Futures End #1, before we return for the start of Snyder’s and Capullo’s next major Batman story arc, Endgame, that begins in October’s Batman #35, Endgame, is also set in during the same continuity established in Batman #34, and will subsequently take place directly after the conclusion of Batman Eternal.

Batman Endgame is Scott Snyder’s and Greg Capullo’s big event story for Batman’s 75th anniversary, featuring a large cast of characters and major events in store for the Dark Knight, together with back-up stories linking into the main story arc of Endgame, co written by Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, with artists changing monthly, Batman Endgame promises to be Snyder’s and Capullo’s most epic storyline to date.

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Batman Eternal #17 Review

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Arkham Asylum, Batman, Batman Eternal, Batman Eternal #17, Batman Eternal #17 Review, Batwing, DC Comics, Derek Fridolfs, Dustin Nguymen, Harper Row, James Tynion IV, Jason Kalizi, Jim Corrigan, John Layman, Ray Fawkes, Scott Snyder, The New 52, Tim Seeley

Batman Eternal #17

Review by Paul Bowler

Arkham Asylum is in the grip of a terrifying new horror. Batwing and Jim Corrigan were sent by Batman to investigate the Asylum, where they both encountered supernatural forces, before uncovering the horrifying truth. Meanwhile, Red Robin and Harper Row find a new lead in Tokyo that could solve the mystery of the nanovirus that is slowly killing her brother. Many years ago Gotham faced a power that even Batman struggled to defeat. Now this same dark force is gathering in Arkham’s shadowy depths, soon he will rise, and the city will tremble before him.

Batman Eternal #17 delves ever deeper into the hellish events unfolding beneath Arkham Asylum, enlightening us with a series of flashbacks that offer us greater insight to the cause of what’s happening in Arkham, while other plot threads involving Batman’s allies continue to play out and reach new turning points. With it’s tightly plotted story by writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, with script by Ray Fawkes, and consulting writers John Layman, and Tim Seeley, Batman Eternal #17 casts a spectral eye over the horrors emerging within Arkham while other significant characters and events in this weekly series also get a share of the action.

The Savior is a terrific story that sees Batwing and Jim Corrigan faced with the full horror of what has been happening in Arkham, as they confront the spiritual manifestation of Deacon Blackfire himself in a cavern below the Asylum. Deacon Blackfire’s spirit has returned to unleash havoc on Gotham City. The story of this deranged cult leader, who first appeared in the four part mini-series Batman: The Cult (1988), is told here though a series of flashbacks. It’s revealed how he preyed on the homeless, using drugs to subvert them to his cause to create an army beneath Gotham and begin a war on crime. Blackfire even captured Batman and attempted to brainwash him, but the Dark Knight managed to turn the Deacon’s minions against him and they killed him.

As well as the ghostly happenings in Arkham Asylum, Batman Eternal #17 catches up with Red Robin and Harper Row in Tokyo where their investigation into the nanobots released in Gotham has brought them to the Akihabara District, and a meeting with Sergei Alexandrov. Meanwhile, back at Wayne Manor, Alfred’s daughter, Julia, confronts him about his decision to dedicate his life to serving the Wayne family, leading to some particularly emotional scenes where Alfred’s dignified silence conveys everything the ideal he serves so loyally means to him.

Dustin Neguyn’s art for Batman Eternal #17 really gives a dark and chilling edge to the scenes in Arkham, with Derek Fridolfs inks also enhancing the foreboding atmosphere, to make Batwing’s and Jim Corrigan’s plight seem all the more desperate. The investigation by Red Robin and Harper Row in Tokyo provides a stark contrast to the main events of the issue, as they confront Sergei Alexandrov in his high-tech lab, while the scenes back in Gotham at Wayne Manor serve as a backdrop to Julia’s argument with her father. Each location is given its own distinct pallet and tone by colorist Jason Kalizi, with vivid hues used for the interludes in Tokyo and Wayne Manor, while the flashbacks featuring Deacon Blackfire have more a grainy, darker tone, and the pitch black shadows beneath Arkham are punctuated with a shimmering blend of unearthly energies from beyond the netherworld.

With the return of Deacon Blackfire, channelling his spirit via the lumbering form of Maxie Zeus, and with the Joker’s Daughter as a maniacal sidekick, this issue ends on a supernatural high, and sets in motion a series of startling events and ghostly transformations. I really like how Batman features in this storyline, as the past entwines with the present, it shows just how flexible and versatile the format of a weekly series can be. Personally, I really like Batman stories when they dip into the realm of the supernatural like this, especially when the art and the story works so well together. Batman Eternal #17 is an excellent issue with and exciting story, great character moments, and enough dark paranormal twists in the plot to keep you guessing right up until the final page.

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Batman Eternal #15 Review

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Arkham Asylum, Batgirl, Batman, Batman Eternal, Batman Eternal #15, Batwing, Batwoman, DC Comics, Derek Fridolfs, Dustin Nguyn, Harper Row, James Tynion IV, Jason Kalisz, Jim Corrigan, John Layman, Ray Fawkes, Red Hood, Red Robin, Scott Snyder, Tim Seeley

Batman Eternal #15

Review by Paul Bowler

Gotham’s gang war is over following the blood soaked showdown between Penguin and Carmine Falcone. While Jim Gordon had to make a decision that could alter his life forever, Lieutenant Bard and Batman reached a new understanding after tackling the corruption within the GCPD, leading to the arrest of Commissioner Forbes and the Mayor. Batman Eternal #15 follows Red Robin’s mission to Tokyo, while Batgirl and Red Hood run into Batwoman in Rio. Plus, as Batman and Bard deal with the remaining gangs in Gotham, we return to Arkham Asylum, where Batwing and Jim Corrigan must confront the hellish forces which have been unleashed there.

Batman Eternal #15 juggles multiple pot strands, building successfully on the aftermath of the gang war, while also giving the rest of Batman’s globe trotting allies’ time in the spotlight, as well as the sinister events in Arkham Asylum. With its fast paced story by writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, script by Ray Fawkes, along with consulting writers John Layman, and Tim Seeley, Batman Eternal #15 makes good use of all the characters and finely hones each aspect of the multiple plot threads that have been gradually building over the course of this weekly series.

The Common Limit sees Red Robin pilot his aircraft to Tokyo, having uncovered the stowaway Harper Row en route, who is determined to find out who is behind the nanotech that is slowly killing her brother. There are some really fun moments between Red Robin and Harper during these early scenes, the banter between them is excellent as well, especially when Harper gets his name wrong and dons a makeshift mask, something that nicely links into the Bluebird crime-fighting persona we know she will eventually adopt (as we saw in Batman #28) to fight alongside Batman.

As Batwing and Jim Corrigan explore Arkham the full extent of what has been happening begins to become apparent. While they may seem an unlikely team, the combination of Batwing’s hi-tech suit and Corrigan’s in-depth knowledge of occult forces, actually works really well, and the characters seem to have stuck up a very natural bond. Their descent into the lower levels of the Asylum is quite unsettling, we catch sight of Riddler’s cell, a shadowy stairwell finds an inmate babbling with all kinds of madness, and the Scarecrow’s fate is almost as disturbing as the bizarre manifestations in his cell.

Two further interludes, one involving Batman and Lieutenant Bard as they round up the remaining gangs members, the other with Batgirl, who has reluctantly teamed up with the Red Hood, on her mission in Rio to find evidence to clear her father of causing the Gotham train crash, although brief, ensure that both subplots are kept bubbling away in the background. I really like the dynamic between Batman and Bard, it’s very different to the one the Dark Knight had with Gordon, and I look forward to seeing how it develops over time. Batgirl and the Red Hood also had some intense scenes, and it was good to see Batwoman show up as well.

Dustin Nguyn’s art for this issue of Batman Eternal is excellent, together with Derek Fridolfs inks, the various locations and extensive cast of characters are all handled really well. Nguyn’s art brings a real sense of kinetic action to every scene, especially the segments in Arkham, with its sinister supernatural elements and hordes of raving lunatics lurking down in the Asylums shadowy depths. The colors by Jason Kalisz also gives each section of the story its own distinct tone: from the crimson hues inside Red Robin’s aircraft, the greys and blacks of Gotham are in stark contrast to the purple neon glow over a back street in Rio, while the horrors of Arkham are cloaked in mixture of deep shadows and ghoulish magic as Batwing and Jim Corrigan explore its secrets.

Batman #15 rounds everything off with a thrilling double edged cliff-hanger, one that will see Batwing’s reliance on the technology of his armoured suit pushed to the limit, while in Arkham’s basement Corrigan must face a new terror waiting in the darkness. I really enjoyed this issue, the various plot elements all meshed together well, and I also liked how we finally got to return to the storyline in Arkham as well. All in all then, I’d have to say Batman Eternal #15 was a good solid issue, the story and art were really impressive, and I look forward seeing how the intriguing global adventures with Batman’s allies and the supernatural storyline in Arkham pans out, as well as the impact they’ll have on future events in Batman Eternal.

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Batman Eternal #6 Review

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Arkham Asylum, Batman, Batman Eternal, Batman Eternal #6, Batman Eternal #6 Review, Batwing, DC Comics, Dr Phosphorous, Gentleman Ghost, Guy Major, James Tynion IV, Jim Corrigan, John Layman, Ray Fawkes, Scott Snyder, The New 52, The Spectre, Tim Seeley, Trevor McCarthy

Batman Eternal #6

Review by Paul Bowler

While scanning one of Carmine Falcone’s weapons stores, Batwing is attacked by the Gentleman Ghost. Batman is also on the scene, and helps drive the Gentleman Ghost away. When Bruce Wayne receives a visit from Jim Corrigan he learns more about the sudden rise of supernatural manifestations in Gotham. With his attention focused on containing the gang war between Carmine Falcone and the Penguin, Batman sends Batwing with Corrigan to investigate the sinister happenings brewing in the tunnels beneath Arkham Asylum, and it looks like they will need The Spectre’s help to deal with the new horror that awaits them in the shadowy depths of Arkham…

Events shift into the realm of the supernatural in Batman Eternal #6 as the Dark Knight must divide his attention between the gang war and the macabre horrors unfolding in Arkham Asylum. With Jim Gordon now locked up in Blackgate Penitentiary after being refused bail, Batman knows Commissioner Forbes will do nothing to prevent the escalation in hostilities between Falcone and the Penguin. Following Jim Corrigan’s visit to Wayne Manor, Bruce decides to send Batwing to Arkham with Corrigan while Batman concentrates on keeping Falcone’s forces off the streets.

“The Denied” is a great story by Scott Snyder & Jams Tynion IV, with script by John Layman’s script, and consulting writers Ray Fakes and Tim Seeley. In many ways Batman Eternal #6 is a refreshing trip to the dark side, especially after last issue, when Red Robin’s investigation into the outbreak of a nanobot swarm in the Narrows of Gotham, where Harper Row’s brother, Cullen, became infected by the swarm. Batman Eternal #6 shows just how flexible and innovative the format of a weekly series can be, allowing the writers to explore a wealth of characters, storylines, and situations. Although the focus may have shifted to Batwing’s and Corrigan’s mission to Arkham Asylum, while Batman deals with the crime war, the narrative of the main story arc with Gordon is never far from our minds as it bubbles away in the background.

Its good to see Batwing featuring in Batman Eternal #6 as well, he has some great scenes battling the Gentleman Ghost, the character also works really well with Batman, and I like the banter with Corrigan as well. Batman is also quick to point out to Batwing that his over reliance on his suits sensors won’t always work for him, and that sometimes you have to look beyond logic and reason to deal with the creatures that stalk the dark corners of Gotham’s underworld. I think Batwing and Jim Corrigan will make a great team as they explore Arkham Asylum, with Batwing’s hi-tech suit and Corrigan’s expertise with occult forces, it will be interesting to see how they work together as they prepare to face the dark forces lurking within Arkham.

Batman Eternal #6 features some terrific artwork by Trevor McCarthy. From the urban sprawl of the deserted truck yard to the library inside Wayne Manor, McCarthy captures the darker tone of this story perfectly. The scenes inside Arkham are wonderfully dark and macabre, as we descend into the nightmarish lair of horror and death below the Asylum, an unexpected appearance awaits us as another unfortunate inmate meets his fate. The colors by Guy Major are also excellent, Dr Phosphorous looks incredible, his skeleton boiling in shimmering green flames, leaving glowing footprints and handprints in his wake as he wanders the tunnels. The scene outside Arkham Asylum is also really atmospheric; as Batwing and Corrigan stand on a hilltop with the sun setting behind Arkham.

With its dark, brooding atmosphere, Batman Eternal #6 is a terrific issue, steeped in the supernatural; it builds to an explosively orchestrated climax. Batman Eternal continues to go from strength to strength, with every issue expanding the scope and scale of the story and characters. This weekly series is has me completely hooked!

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