Batman #95 Review

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Batman, Batman #95, Batman #95 review, DC Comics, Gotham, James Tynion IV, Joege Jimenez, Joker, Joker War, Joker War Part 1, Lucius Fox, Punchline, Tommy Morey

Batman #95

Review by Paul Bowler

Joker War gets underway in earnest in Batman #95 as the Clown Prince of Crime and the Dark Knight prepare to square off for their greatest battle yet! The Joker’s motivations have changed. He’s gone all out to gain the upper hand, and Joker is hell bent on ensuring this will be the final chapter in their eternal conflict. Batman’s life is already in ruins and Joker War has  only just begun!

The much touted final showdown between Batman and the Joker explodes — quite literally — in the pages of Batman #95 with Part One of writer James Tynion IV’s highly anticipated Joker War. Following the shock revelation of the Designer’s true identity and Joker having now seized control of the Wayne fortune, the issue quickly establishes the dramatic shift in the Joker’s goals with an insightful flashback to Batman’s early years as he races in the Batmobiile to a previous showdown with the Joker, and Tynion skilfully uses this opportunity to tug at our heart strings as the conversation between Alfred and Batman highlights some particularly striking parallels between past and present circumstances.

Indeed, the fallout from Alfred’s death seems to permeate virtually every aspect of this issue for Batman. Never has Batman needed his oldest, most trusted friend more, and never has he seemed so desperately alone without him. As we rejoin events in the present day Tynion dramatically relays how Bruce’s fortune, Gotham, and even the law have all been taken by the Joker and turned against the Dark Knight. Even Lucius Fox has succumbed to the Joker’s influence, thus giving the Clown Prince of Crime access to all the wonderful toys, and the GCPD has been rendered powerless because of the Underwriter’s legal machinations. Everything that made Batman what he was has been completely stripped away and the Dark Knight is now effectively on the run.

Joege Jimenez’s art for Batman #95 is sumptuously rendered and vividly detailed. The opening flashback, which dovetails sublimely into a high octane Batmobile chase, together with the gloriously gloomy depiction of Gotham, the tantalising glimpse of a new Bat-Suit that’s highly reminiscent of the ice-tech look of George Clooney’s final costume in Batman & Robin (minus the nipples thankfully), and Batman’s face-off with Punchline are all action-packed moments that are beautifully realised by Jimenez’s impressive artwork and Tommy Morey’s exquisite colors. For me though the biggest highlight of the issue was the Joker splurging the cash as he returned to the very origins of the legacy of the Bat itself in the most macabre way imaginableIt! It’s a brilliant, creepy scene, and genuinely chilling. 

That aforementioned showdown between Batman and Punchline is another great moment in this issue. Although I found Punchline’s debut a few issues previously something of an anti-climax after all the hype surrounding her, she’s beginning to grow on me a little bit now, and her fight with Batman in the compromised Mini-Bat-Cave saw significant improvements in the characterisation and depiction of the Joker’s new partner.

As cliffhangers go, this issues a doozy, and I can’[t wait to see how Dark Knight fights his way out of this one! Batman #95 provides a bombastic opening salvo to Joker War and certainly gets this major DC Comics Bat-Event off to a great start. Tynion’s run on Batman continues to go from strength to strength with every issue, he’s really firing on all cylinders now, and the art team on this book is also doing a fantastic job. So, will Joker War really turn out to be this much hyped final conflict between the Joke and Batman? No, I don’t believe that for a moment either, but it sure looks like we are going to be in for a battle Royale whatever happens after the dust has settled in the wake of this epic Batman event!

Publisher:DC Comics

Writer: James Tynion IV / Artist Joege Jimenez

Colors: Tommy Morey / Letters: Clayton Cowles

Cover: Jimenez & Morey / Joker Variant Cover: Francesco Mattina

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About The Author

Hi, I’m Paul Bowler, blogger and reviewer of films, TV shows, and comic books. I’m a Sci-Fi geek, a big fan of Doctor Who, Star Trek, movies, Sci-Fi, Horror, Comic Books, and all things PS4.You can follow me on Twitter @paul_bowler,or at my website, Sci-Fi Jubilee, and on YouTube and Facebook

 

Batman #94 Review

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Bat Cat, Batman, Batman #94, Batman #94 review, Catwoman, DC Comics, Gotham, Guillem March, James Tynion IV, Joker, Joker War

Batman #94

Review By Paul Bowler.

Joker War looms on the horizon in Batman #94 following the fallout from the Designer’s grand scheme. The Dark Knight’s life is in ruins and the ambitious rebuilding of Gotham City has ground to a halt. New forces have risen to shape Gotham’s destiny — and there’s nothing Batman can do to prevent it. Lost, without Alfred or the Bat-Family by his side, and desperate to save the woman he loves Batman now stands alone as he faces the ascension of his greatest foe — the Joker! 

The finale of Their Dark Designs unfolds with a funeral-like dirge of thunder and storm clouds rumbling over Gotham as writer James Tynion IV brings Batman’s world crashing down around him. As the realisation for the Dark Knight, Catwoman and the entirety of Gotham’s rogues  gallery that they’ve all been played by the Joker begins to reverberate across the city, Tynion continues to excel, weaving an insightful flashback to the young Bruce Wayne’s early years of training before he became the Bat into the narrative and the Designer’s machinations to bring everything full circle with Bruce’s encounter with Cassander Wycliffe Baker – the worlds greatest detective.

From there Batman #94 goes into free-fall as the Dark Knight battles back from the brink. Lucius Fox might be on hand to assist after Deathstroke’s attack, but he can’t be the ally Bruce needs right now, especially if they are to have any chance against the Joker who has just seized control of the Wayne fortune. The emotional fallout is equally devastating for Bruce, something that’s powerfully highlighted by the phone conversation between the Bat and the Cat. It’s a heartrending, pivotal moment; and something that could very well strain their relationship to breaking point.

The artistic duties for this issue are shared between Guillem March and Rafael Albuquerque. Their distinct and individual styles complement each other nicely, seamlessly bookending scenes, whilst balance the grim tone and emotional beats of Tynion’s story perfectly, and the rich colors by David Baron bring vivid clarity and tone to every page. Everything from Bruce’s flashback, to the Dark Knight’s steely determination to reach Selina, with a chilling confrontation at the hospital, and the final scenes as Batman looks to the raging heavens above  Gotham for a sign all converge to make this one of the most visually impressive and compelling issues of Batman we’ve seen so far in this run.

All in all, I think James Tynion’s first story arc for Batman has turned out really well. Their Dark Designs has ushered in a powerful, innovative and thoughtful new era for the Dark Knight. Batman #94 is a resounding finale to this saga, it rounds everything off with an emotional rollercoaster ride that will leave the Bat broken by his own design, and brilliantly paves the way for the start of Joker War!

Publisher: DC Comics

Writer: James Tynion IV / Art: Guillem March & Rafael Albuquerque

Colors: David Baron / Letters: Clayton Cowles

Cover: Tony S Daniel & Tommy Morey

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About The Author

Hi, I’m Paul Bowler, blogger and reviewer of films, TV shows, and comic books. I’m a Sci-Fi geek, a big fan of Doctor Who, Star Trek, movies, Sci-Fi, Horror, Comic Books, and all things PS4.You can follow me on Twitter @paul_bowler,or at my website, Sci-Fi Jubilee, and on YouTube and Facebook

 

Batman #93 review

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Batman, Batman #93, Batman #93 Review, Catwoman, DC Comics, Deathstroke, Gotham, Harley Quinn, James Tynion IV, Joker, Joker War, Penguin, Punchline, Riddler, The Underwriter, Their Dark Designs

Batman #93

Review by Paul Bowler.

Batman squares off against the Designer in Batman #93 as Their Dark Designs reaches its thrilling conclusion! In the space of a year the Dark Knight has lost more than he could have ever thought possible, and now he faces a loss so shattering it will change his life beyond all recognition! But an even greater battle awaits. Joker War is on the horizon, and Gotham will never be the same again…

It’s safe to say there’s quite a lot riding on events in Batman #93, as winter Jame’s Tynion IV wraps up his first major story arc on the title, and effectively sets the stage for the imminent Joker War. So, is Batman #93 the culmination of a grand design, or does it completely miss the punchline?

Well, fortunately Tynion succeeds in brining together the numerous tangled plot threads In Their Dark Designs Part 8 to deliver a relatively satisfying finale to the story. There is the usual sparing between villain and Dark Knight as the grand scheme is unpicked and revealed, and their showdown is as deliciously theatrical as it is theatric. We also get to learn a lot more about the mysterious Underbroker and his organisation as he assists Catwoman in completing the greatest heist Gotham has ever seen, while Harley Quinn and the Joker’s new partner, Punchline, face off in spectacular fashion.

I have to say I wasn’t all that impressed with Punchline’s much touted debut last issue. Tynion goes some way to bringing more depth to the character in Batman #93, and her scrap here with Harley Quinn positively crackles with snappy dialogue and razor sharp action. While I still think Punchline comes across like some kind of vamped up version of Gogo from Kill Bill VOL I, her motivations for being with the Joker do at least have some credence to them. I still don’t understand  why there’s been so much hype about Punchline, it all seems a bit gimmicky to me, but hey, who knows, maybe Joker War will see the character continue to evolve and really get a chance to shine?

Batman #93 features some great work  from artists Guillem March and Javier Fernandez, along with colors by Tomeu Morey and David Baron, to ensure that this closing chapter of Their Dark Designs captures the sombre, brooding tone of Tynion’s script perfectly. There’s a wonderful montage of pages that collectively flashback and forwards over events, each one highlighting  a myriad of crucial aspects, narrative threads and potential outcomes. The fight between Batman and the Designer is also equally impressive, as are the highly atmospheric scenes between the Underwriter and Catwoman as Harley Quinn’s and Punchline’s anarchic dance of violence plays out with truly shocking results.

On the whole then, James Tynion IV brings Their Dark Designs to a powerful and surprising end. Batman #93 is an exciting, action-packed issue, it goes for broke, in more ways than one, and I’ve a feeling that by the time Joker War hits the Dark Knight’s world is genuinely going to be turned upside down on all fronts.

Publisher: DC Comics

Writer: James Tynion IV / Artists: Guillem March & Javier Fernandez

Colors: Tomeu Morey & David Baron / Letters: Clayton Cowles

Cover: Tony S. Daniel & Tomeu Morey

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About The Author

Hi, I’m Paul Bowler, blogger and reviewer of films, TV shows, and comic books. I’m a Sci-Fi geek, a big fan of Doctor Who, Star Trek, movies, Sci-Fi, Horror, Comic Books, and all things PS4.You can follow me on Twitter @paul_bowler,or at my website, Sci-Fi Jubilee, and on YouTube and Facebook

Batman #91 Review

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Batman, Batman #91, Batman #91 review, Bruce Wayne, Catwoman, DC Comics, Deathstroke, Harley Quinn, James Tynion IV, Joker, Penguin, Riddler, The Designer, The Nightclimber

Batman #91

Review by Paul Bowler

The Dark Knight squares off against Deathstroke in Batman #91 as the mysterious Designer’s grand plan begins to overwhelm Gotham. In order to help Batman save the city Catwoman will have to undertake the greatest heist in Gotham’s history. However, with Joker, Penguin and Riddler involved, and with a team of assassins on the loose Catwoman must reluctantly team-up with Harley Quinn while Batman confronts Deathstroke alone…

Writer James Tynion IV gathers numerous plot threads together in Their Dark Designs Part 6, as the pieces of the Designer’s scheme woven from the betrayal of the major players of Gotham’s nefarious Rogues Gallery of villains begins to unfold. Batman #91 starts chillingly enough. Joker has a tale to tell, one where he’s naturally the star of the show of course. It’s a glorious retelling of the Joker’s, Riddler’s, Pernguin’s, and Catwoman’s past encounter with the Designer from last issues flashback to events at Tartarus House, and its frighteningly relayed to the Joker’s captive audience. Add an intriguing phone call, together with the fact that the Joker War storyline is rapidly approaching, and this interlude with Joker clearly lays the groundwork for even darker things to come.

After reigning in Harley Quinn following her brief stint on drone duty, the primary focus of the issue is Batman’s high-octane chase and showdown with Deathstroke, Once again Tynion’s brings some superb characterisation to the fore here as Batman confronts Deathstroke with the Nightclimber, highlighting some striking parallels between them as Batman strives to make his case for saving Gotham City. Likewise, Catwoman and Harley Quinn are thrown together again and have to fight their way out of trouble. There’s a great dynamic between them too which leads to some hilarious asides and observations from Harley Quinn on the whole Bat-Cat relationship!

Batman #91’s artwork is shared between Rafael Albuquerque, Jorge Jimenez, and Carlo Pagulayan. Each of their distinctive artistic styles is perfectly suited to the trio of plot lines they’ve been allotted to render. The varying styles overlap nicely and don’t jar as a result, action sequences flow seamlessly alongside the more character driven moments, and the colors by Tomeu Morey accentuates the dark, brooding atmosphere of the issue perfectly.

Following Batman’s unexpected alliance with a deadly foe, everything builds to an exciting cliff-hanger as another player steps into the fray to take their turn in the Designer’s game. Although the story is starting to feel a little conventional with yet another mysterious villain seemingly knowing the Dark Knight’s every move, Tynion’s excellent writing keeps things engaging enough, the art is also very good, and the action-adventure tone ensures this is another exciting issue.

Publisher: DC Comics

Writer James Tynion IV /

Art: Rafael Albuquerque, Jorge Jimenez, Carlo Pagulayan, and Danny Miki

Colors: Tomeu Morey / Letters: Clayton Cowles

Cover: Jimenez and Morey

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About The Author

Hi, I’m Paul Bowler, blogger and reviewer of films, TV shows, and comic books. I’m a Sci-Fi geek, a big fan of Doctor Who, Star Trek, movies, Sci-Fi, Horror, Comic Books, and all things PS4.You can follow me on Twitter @paul_bowler,or at my website, Sci-Fi Jubilee, and on YouTube and Facebook

Batman #86 Review

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Alfred, Batman, Batman #86, Batman #86 review, Brice Wayne, Catwoman, City of Bane, Danny Miki, DC Comics, Deathstroke, Gotham, James Tynion IV, Lucius Fox, Nightclimber, Slade Wilson, Tony S. Daniel

Batman #86

Review by Paul Bowler.

A new era begins in Batman #86, but the Dark Knight’s world has changed forever. Bane is defeated and one of Batman’s oldest allies is dead. Now as Batman begins to rebuild his life and embarks on his bold new vision for Gotham, Deathstroke arrives in town, hired under a deadly new contract that threatens everything Batman is striving to achieve…

New series writer James Tynion IV takes the helm of DC Comics flagship Batman title for this next chapter in the life of the Dark Knight, together with the epic new art team of Tony S. Daniel and Danny Miki, for a story that instantly sets the tone for an entirely new directions as Batman starts to pick up the pieces after Alfred’s death. Their Dark Designs Part 1 gives us poignant insight into Batman’s radical new approach towards Gotham, indeed Alfred Pennyworth’s untimely demise in City of Bane inevitably hangs heavily over this issue, and consequently because of these opening scenes it also resonates just as powerfully in the wake of Batman’s confrontation with Deathstroke as well.

Batman has other allies though who will seem to be just as crucial to the Dark Knight’s designs during Tynion’s run. So, with Catwoman undercover and working a room full of Gotham’s high-fliers at the New Wayne Campus and Lucius Fox crafting Batman new and ever more wonderful toys in an immense subbasement workshop, Batman is free to deal with the lethal contract killers he’s been monitoring. Tynion is clearly going all-out with some new, and inventive technological innovations for the Dark Knight’s arsenal, and this issue sees the debut of the perhaps Batman’s most fearsome vehicle to date – the Nightclimber!

Needless to say the artwork that graces the pages of Batman #86 is little short of phenomenal. The pencils by Tony S. Daniel combined with Danny Miki’s inks are like a match made in heaven, and together with the vibrant colors by Tomeu Morey this issue is a veritable feast for the senses. From the opening rain-swept scenes over Gotham with a contemplative Batman, to witnessing the hired killers gathering in secret, and the deft inter-cutting between Batman’s conversations, first with Catwoman and then Lucius, there is a rich fluidity and consistency to the art that is staggeringly beautiful. Of course, Deathstroke is the one who has been brought in to lead this band of hired killers and the showdown with Slade Wilson – though brief – is still impressively depicted.

Closing things out with an intriguing mystery, a night sky full of memories, and a dark epilogue Batman #86 gets the new creative teams run off to a pretty good start. However, Batman #86 follows what has arguably been one of the most divisive runs in recent times for Batman comics. So is Batman #86 a bold new era or damage control? I honestly cannot decide as this issue felt like a little of both to me. I still feel that Tom King’s run has done immeasurable harm to the legacy of the Dark Knight, but, if anyone can fix things I’m sure James Tynion IV is the man to do it. Fingers crossed, eh?

Publisher: DC Comics Writer: James Tynion IV

Pencils: Tony S. Daniel Inks: Danny Miki Colors: Tomeu Morey

Letterer: Clayton Cowles Cover Tony S Daniel & Tomeu Morey

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About The Author

Hi, I’m Paul Bowler, blogger and reviewer of films, TV shows, and comic books. I’m a Sci-Fi geek, a big fan of Doctor Who, Star Trek, movies, Sci-Fi, Horror, Comic Books, and all things PS4.You can follow me on Twitter @paul_bowler,or at my website, Sci-Fi Jubilee, and on YouTube and Facebook

Justice League #30 Review

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DC Comics, James Tynion IV, Justice Doom War, Justice League, Justice League #30, Justice League #30 review, Legion of Doom, Scott Snyder, Year of the Villain

Justice League #30

Review by Paul Bowler.

The Justice / Doom War kicks off big time Justice League #30 as writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV take this sweeping comic book opus to a whole new level. With their arch nemesis Lex Luthor now transformed into a super-powered apex predator powered by the dark entity Perpetua, the Legion of Doom look even closer to defeating the League and succeeding in their goal to bring chaos and destruction to the DC Universe.

With the Year of the Villain now well under way Justice League #30 presents a chilling glimpse of the consequences of Luthor’s scheme if indeed that grim fate should come to pass. Snyder and Tynion collectively bring the far reaching threads of numerous story-arcs together in this issue. Indeed, it is now clear just how much has been set into place to bring everything to this point, the sheer scale and ingenuity of it all is really quite astonishing, and the Justice / Doom War looks set to take things even further – across, space, time and even the Multiverse itself!

Arguably one of the biggest revelations in this run of Justice League has been Snyder’s and Tnyion’s reintroduction of Starman’s character. Now as the core members of the Justice League gather their forces against their impending doom, Starman not only galvanises the heroes into action, his place at the heart of the plot entwines beautifully with the overarching narrative of the mythologies and forces that bind the DC Universe together.

Jorge Jimenez’s art in Justice League #30 easily rises to the occasion to match the high drama of the plot. Utilizing bold, striking page layouts, Jimenez skilfully builds the pace, the characters dramatic poses are beautifully framed, and the sheer scope of the issues grand design is quite simply breathtaking to behold. The colors by Aljandro Sanchez vibrantly complement Jumenez’s art, dazzling the eye with a glorious blend of tone and hues.

Each branch of the issues key storylines has villains plotting to strike while the heroes embark on a daring plan to turn the tide in their favour. Set against this dramatic backdrop, some grave reservations are voiced, and darkness lurks waiting to strike as the issues time-warping cliff-hanger builds to the momentous return of some old favourites…

Justice League #30 crams a hell of a lot in but there’s no denying that the final page is the one that is really this issues big selling point. I won’t spoil it – even though its already been well documented that this issue of Justice League features the return of some much beloved characters – but people who know me know that I’m a big fan of these classic Golden Age characters and needless to say that final page left me with a big silly grin on my face.

For an issue that has so much going on and so many plates spinning in the past, present and future its all the more remarkable that Justice League #30 is also an excellent jumping on point for new readers. If you haven’t been following this version of Justice League, or read Metal, or any of the other tie-in issues from previous events then this issue will quickly bring you up to speed as it sets up some tantalizing possibilities for the future. Most of all though Justice League #30 is one of those joyous issues that makes you punch the air with delight. Providing both a blockbusting opening to the Justice / Doom War and a most welcome return to the classic era of comics, this is indeed one of the finest issues of Justice League that Snyder and Tynion have crafted so far!

Writers: Scott Snyder & James Tynion IV

Art: Jorge Jimenez / Colors: Alejandro Sanchez

Letters: Tom Napolitano

Cover: Francis Manapul / Varian Cover: Jay Anaceleto & Romulo Fajaroo JR

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Detective Comics #968 Review

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A Lonley Place of Living, Alfred, Alvaro Martinez, Azeral, Batcave, Batman, Batwing, Batwoman, Cassandra, Clayface, Damian, DC Comics, DC Comics Rebirth, Detective Comics, Detective Comics #968, Detective Comics #968 review, James Tynion IV, Nightwing, Raul Fernandez, Red Hood, Red Robin, Tim Drake, Tomeu Morey

Detective Comics #968

Review by Paul Bowler

A Lonely Place of Living reaches its astounding conclusion in Detective Comics #968, with Tim Drake now back on Earth, but he’s also brought a fearsome menace back with him – a future version of himself that has been tragically moulded by fate to become the Batman! This misguided Batman is determined to complete his mission to kill Batwoman and change the future, not even the Dark Knight and his allies can stand against him, and now Red Robin must fight to save everything that he’s ever fought and died for…

Suffice to say, Detective Comics #968 is not only one hell of an action packed issue, its also probably writer James Tynion’s finest story arc so far during his run on Detective Comics. With its throwbacks to A Lonely Place of Dying and nebulous links to the Mr Oz storyline going on over in Action Comics, this storyline with its timey wimey narrative has made for compelling reading, and effectively brought Tim Drake‘s story full circle as he returns to the fold in a battle royal with his future self who now wears the mantel of the Bat!

Tynion skilfully balances the cast of Bat-characters in this issue, with Batman, Red Robin, Nightwing, Damian, Red Hood, and Alfred squaring off against the future Tim / Batman in the Batcave, while Batwoman, Azeral, Cassandra, Batwing, and Clayface bravely confront a lethal attack from hacked Colony drones at the Belfrey. Everyone in the Bat-Family gets a moment to shine in the spotlight, the dialogue and banter positively crackles from the page, and the team dynamic that makes this book so strong will no doubt be made all the richer by the dramatic far-reaching implication of the events that unfold over the course of this issue.

Detective Comics #968 also dazzles with some especially striking artwork, with pencils by Alvaro Martinez, inks by Raul Fernandez, and colors Tomeu Morey, the bold, free flowing page layouts and panoramic double page spreads exquisitely relay the frenetic action and emotional beats in vivid detail; while the concise letting by Sal Cipriano ensures the dialogue seamlessly blends the narrative across each and every panel. From the face-off in the Batcave to the showdown in the Belfrey, the extensive cast of characters are all impressively rendered, dynamic perspectives give each location a distinct tone, and the temporal effect that intermittently manifests around the future Tim / Batman also provides an interesting visual flourish.

This story-arc has been nothing short of brilliant, and James Tynion IV has excelled once himself again with this issue. Detective Comics 968 delivers an extremely satisfying, powerful, and moving conclusion to A Lonely Place of Living. It’s great to finally have Tim Drake back after his apparent demise in the battle with the Colony and his subsequent incarceration outside of time by Mr Oz. A Lonely Place of Living has offered us an intriguing glimpse into the future (or at last one possible future), it will be fascinating to what happens now that Tim has returned to the Bat-family, and I can’t wait to see what Tynion and Co have in store for this team next!

Publisher DC Comics.

Writer James Tynion IV / Pencils Alvaro Martinez / Inks Raul Fernandez

Colors Tomeu Morey / Letters Sal Cipriano

Cover Eddy Barrows, Eber Ferreira, & Adriano Lucas

Varian Cover Rafael Albuquerque

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Detective Comics #940 Review

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Batman, Batwoman, Brad Anderson, Cassandra Cain, Clayface, comics, DC Comics, DC Rebirth, Detective Comics #940, Detective Comics #940 review, Eber Ferreira, Eddy Barrows, Gotham, Gotham City, Jacob Kane, James Tynion IV, Orphan, Rafael Albuquerque, Raul Fernandez, Red Robin, Rise of the Batmen, Spoiler, The Colony

Detective Comics #940

Review by Paul Bowler

Batwoman confronts her father and Red Robin battles against impossible odds as the epic showdown with the Colony reaches its thrilling climax in Detective Comics #940, and it’s an issue destined to rock The Dark Knight’s world to the core. Batman, Batwoman and their new team of young heroes will soon face the chilling reality that, no matter the outcome, this battle to save Gotham may have already been lost…

For me, Detective Comics, with Batman and Batwoman fronting the team consisting of Spoiler, Red Robin, Orphan (Cassandra Cain), and super-villain seeking redemption Clayface, has been the highlight of DC Comics Rebirth and the new Bat-Books in general. From the moment it was announced, this titles concept and team structure, along with the inclusion of Clayface, captivated my imagination, and I love the dynamic that’s evolved between this fledgling superhero team as its evolved and learned to work together under Batwoman’s stewardship.

James Tynion IV ensures that Rise of the Batmen: Part 7 delivers a powerful finale for this first arc. I really like how Tynion has developed the bond between Bruce and Kate over the course of this storyline. Now they are forced to face the most challenging and difficult of circumstances, with Batwoman finally confronting her father’s treachery, as leader of the Colony and the one responsible for unleashing this army of Batmen and drone on Gotham, while Batman faces a desperate race against time to reach Tim at the old Wayne Tower.

Eddy Barrows gorgeous artwork for this issue of Detective Comics elevates the drama and tension to the max, with dynamic, almost cinematic page layouts. The scenes on and around the Colony Airship are spectacular, Barrows dazzles us with smashing action-packed moments of high drama as Batwoman’s fury spills over, but it is the moments where – having made himself the sole target of the drones – Red Robin makes his stand against this ultimate no-win-scenario that will truly have you on the edge of your seat. Eber Ferreira’s inks complement Barrows’ art brilliantly, enhancing the finer details and nuances of every scene, and the colors by Adriano Lucas meld with sublime grace to reflect the action and emotional beats of the story perfectly.

Detective Comics #940 is good, frustratingly good in fact, because to say more would completely spoil it. Suffice to say, James Tynion IV that pulled out all the stops for this one, its a master class in storytelling, plotting, and characterization. This issue has some of most powerful and emotional scenes that we’ve seen for a long time in a Batman comic. Barrows, Ferreira, and Lucas have also made this one of their most visually impressive issues so far. The emotional fallout from the cataclysmic events in Detective Comics #940 are conveyed in the most heartrending way, its moving stuff, and, needless to say, the ending will completely blow you away.

Rise of the Batmen has been a terrific start to Tynion’s run on Detective Comics. If this arc is anything to go by, I‘m sure Detective Comics will have become a must read Bat-Title for many fans, and now with the Night of the Monster Men crossover event about to begin, I can’t wait to see what Tynion and the whole creative team on Detective Comics have in store for us next!

Publisher: DC Comics / James Tynion IV

Art: Eddy Barrows / Inks: Eber Ferreira / Colors: Adriano Lucas

Letters: Marilyn Patrizio

Cover by: Barrows, Ferreira & Lucas

Variant Cover: Rafael Albuquerque

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Detective Comics #936 Review

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Alvaro Martinez, Batman, Batwoman, Brad Anderson, Cassandra Cain, Clayface, comics, DC Comics, DC Rebirth, Detective Comics #936, Detective Comics #936 Review, Gotham, Gotham City, James Tynion IV, Orphan, Rafael Albuquerque, Raul Fernandez, Red Robin, Rise of the Batmen, Spoiler, The Colony

Detective Comics #936

Review by Paul Bowler

A new threat is rising in Gotham City. Batman and Batwoman have assembled a new generation of heroes against this secret army of the Colony and their extreme tactics. Now, in Detective Comics #936, Batman is missing, and the time has come for Batwoman to take charge. But will she able to make Spoiler, Red Robin, Orphan (Cassandra Cain), and erratic super-villain seeking redemption Clayface work together as a team?

Rise of the Batmen Part 3: Army of Shadows, continues the brand new story-arc by James Tynion IV, where Batman and Batwoman have begun training a new strike force of young heroes to face the soldiers of the Colony that have modelled themselves on the Dark Knight and begun scouring the city, ruthlessly dealing with anything perceived as potential a threat – including it now seems, even Batman himself!

Tynion deftly builds on the series’ new direction and concept with Detective Comics #936, as Kate Kane confronts her doubts about training Batman’s team over a drink with former love interest Renee Montoya (she was also the Question), who makes a long awaited return here after being absent from the DC Universe – for the most part – since the New 52 reboot. It is a powerful, moving, and insightful scene for both characters. However, Montoya can easily see though Kate’s tough façade, and her parting words of advice are tinged with bittersweet sincerity for them both. From there an emergency call brings Batwoman to the teams new Belfry HQ, where Red Robin presents Kate with the news that Batman has been ambushed by the Colony, and that its now up to her to must decide what they do next.

This issue rattles along at a cracking pace. Batwoman quickly ascertains the Colony forces have military form, but it is Red Robin who really helps Kate to address her issues concerning Batman and her ability as a leader. It’s a great scene for both characters, and it offers a fascinating insight into how they both perceive Batman and feel they’ve earned his trust. The time has come for Batwoman and Red Robin to summon Spoiler, Orphan, and Clayface to the Belfry and to bring them up to speed with their mission, together with some expert advice from Kate’s father, to prepare them for what they must face with Batman now MIA.

Detective Comics #936 is a mighty fine looking issue, with pencils by Alvaro Martinez and inks by Raul Fernandez, every scene flows seamlessly into the next, and the staggering level of detail on every page skilfully accentuates the many subtleties and nuances of Tynion’s excellent scrip. From Kate’s musings on her past reflected in a her own beer glass during a quiet drink in a bar with Renee Montoya, to the dual functionality and visual spectacle of the Belfry’s huge window, this issue also delivers its fair share of big-action set–pieces as well. The colors by Brad Anderson are another major highlight of this issue of Detective Comics, with glorious tones and rich shades enhancing ever scene, especially those set in the Belfry.

James Tynion IV has done a fantastic job with this issue; it’s packed from cover to cover with action, suspense, and great characterization. Everything builds to a thrilling cliff-hanger in Detective Comics #936, a hidden agenda is revealed, the Belfry comes under attack, Clayface’s unpredictable abilities prove crucial, and Batwoman finally learns that she has what it takes to be the leader that Batman trusted her to be.

Of all the new comics that I’ve been reading recently, Detective Comics has easily been the standout new Bat-title from DC’s Rebirth event for me. Everything from the writing, the art, and its exciting cast of characters just seemed to click together right from the start. This creative team have really raised the bar with Detective Comics, its fresh, different, and TEC #936 is another excellent issue in this new story-arc.

Publisher: DC Comics / Writer: James Tynion IV / Pencils: Alvaro Martinez

Inks: Raul Fernandez / Colors: Brad Anderson / Letters: Marilyn Patrizio

Cover by: Martinez, Fernandez & Morely

Variant Cover: Rafael Albuquerque

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Detective Comics #934 Review

Tags

Adriano Lucas, Azrael, Batman, Batwoman, Cassandra Cain, Clayface, comics, DC Comics, DC Rebirth, Detective Comics #934, Detective Comics #934 Review, Eber Ferreira, Eddy Barrows, Gotham, Gotham City, James Tynion IV, Orphan, Red Robin, Rise of the Batmen, Rise of the Batmen Part 1, Spoiler

Detective Comics #934

Review by Paul Bowler

The Batman family must confront a new menace in Detective Comics #934, when an unknown enemy that looks suspiciously like Batman begins stalking Gotham City and using ruthless tactics against perceived threats. Batman and Batwoman unite to train the next generation of young heroes in Gotham: Spoiler, Red Robin, Orphan (Cassandra Cain), and the reformed super-villain Clayface, to battle crime and protect their city. ..

As well as returning to its original numbering, Detective Comics now embraces an entirely new concept, and gets a new creative team with the advent of DC Rebirth, as writer James Tynion IV, artist Eddy Barrows, inker Eber Ferreira, and colorist Adriano Lucas usher in a new era for DC’s flagship comic series. Detective Comics #934 also marks the return of Batwoman to play a major role in the DC Universe, now working alongside Batman, together they will form a new team of superheroes with, Spoiler, Red Robin, Orphan, and Clayface, to confront the challenge of this mysterious new Darker Knight prowling Gotham like a vengeful predator, but can they work as a team, and is Clayface really ready to change his villainous ways?

You know, as excited as I am by Batman, Nightwing, and All Star Batman, of all the new Bat-Titles coming our way during DC’s Rebirth, its Detective Comics that I’ve really been looking forward to the most. I often feel that Detective Comics got a bit overlooked at times during The New 52, but I’m sure all that will change; especially now on the strength of this first issue by James Tynion IV and the exciting new premise it establishes.

The initial scenes of Rise of the Batmen Part 1 flashbacks to events as Gotham’s deadly new cape and cowl attacks Azrael, it’s a brutal fight, but with Batman’s arrival on the scene this strange doppelganger impersonating Batman soon beats a hasty retreat to the shadows. The new status quo and cast of characters is quickly set out as the issue unfolds, as Kate’s father’s sentiments are echoed later in Batman’s request for her to help him find out why Azrael was attacked and who is controlling the drones that have been spying on Gotham’s vigilantes. It’s really interesting to see Bruce and Kate working together so closely again, the unusual dynamic between them really plays to Tynion’s strengths as a writer, and I’m looking forward to seeing how Batman and Batwoman will work together. Given how tense and distant their relationship has sometimes been, this issue heralds a major turnaround on that front, it’s a terrific scene, and pivotal to forging their bond of trust and respect as equal partner in recruiting and running their boot camp for their new trainees.

James Tynion IV also does a great job at handling this ensemble cast of characters, a fact that really shines through as we see Batman and Batwoman assessing and visiting Spoiler, Red Robin, Cassandra Cain, and Clayface individually over the course of the issue, and brining them together as a team to survive this new threat. Even though each student has their own unique attributes, strengths, and skills, Batwoman makes it clear from the outset their training is going to be tough; and she certainly isn’t going to go easy on them!

Then of course we have, in my opinion, the masterstroke move by Tynion and co, of having Clayface becoming part of the team! The scene were Batman and Batwoman recruit Basil Karlo proves to be a really powerful and emotional scene for the character, I found it genuinely moving, and the dynamic between Batman and Batwoman here is pitched perfectly. Ok, hands up, I admit I’m more than a little biased here, because Clayface is my all-time-favourite villain from Batman’s rogues galley, and I’m thrilled to see the character become such an integral part of this series, but is he really ready for redemption? Only time will tell…

Detective Comics #934 features some gorgeous artwork by Eddy Barrows and inks by Eber Ferreira. The page layouts are bold and dramatic, Barrow’s art is finely detailed and conveys the often kinetic action with an almost fluidic sense of pace and movement, all the characters are impressively realized, and Ferreira’s inks really brining out the finer nuances of Barrow’s work to such a degree that each scene literally bursts from the page with the sheer immersing power of characterization and spectacle in this issue. Likewise, colorist Adriano Lucas builds the tension and drama with a subtle blend of rich hues and bold tones, while the clever use of light and shadow accentuates the mood of countless scenes to make this issue an outstanding synergy of storytelling and art. This issue has so many highlights: Batman standing framed in light in St Michael’s Cathedral before the fallen Azrael, Batwoman swinging across the Gotham skyline, the recruiting of the individual team members, and the stunning welcome to boot camp at the Bat-Signal that emulates this issues stunning cover by Barrows, Ferreira, Lucas is a sublime move that neatly bookends the issue in fine style.

James Tynion IV has done a terrific job with Detective Comics #934, the new premise and mission scenario is set out for Batman, Batwoman, and their new team in a way that gradually builds the mystery and suspense, before the issue closes with a startling glimpse at the true scale of the menace they will all soon have to face. James Tynion gives all of the characters a moment to shine, while Eddy Barrows, Eber Ferreira, and Adriano Lucas ensure the issue is busting from cover to cover with impressive visual, along with concise letting from Marilyn Patrizio, collectively gets this new creative teams run on Detective Comics off to a great start!

Publisher: DC Comics / James Tynion IV / Art: Eddy Barrows

Inks: Eber Ferreira / Colors: Adriano Lucas / Letters: Marilyn Patrizio

Cover by: Barrows, Ferreira & Lucas / Variant Cover: Rafael Albuquerque

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