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In this review of Batgirl #33, while Bronze Tiger and the others battle Dr. Forget-Me-Not in the real world, can Batgirl defeat her psychotic foe by herself in her own mind?Batgirl #22 main cover by David Talaski (DC Comics)

BATGIRL #22
Written by TATE BROMBAL
Art by STEPHEN SEGOVIA
Main Cover: DAVID TALASKI
Variant Covers: KYUYONG EOM, STANLEY “ARTGERM” LAU
Page Count: 32 pages
Release Date: 8/5/26

This review contains spoilers

Bronze Tiger leads Jaya and Tenji downstairs of the warehouse where they’ve been sent to investigate the corpse of a dead girl, along with Batgirl who’s suffered a seizure and his currently comatose, battling a mental attack from Dr. Forget-Me-Not. Tasked with solving the murder of Victoria Rose – the rival trainee under the instruction of Forget-Me-Not and the League of Assassins, Cassandra begins to believe she killed Victoria, until she begins resisting the doctor’s mental hypnotism that’s intended to assault her as a young girl. Now as a grown woman who has learned speech, Cassandra reworks the evidence in her memories, realizing that Forget-Me-Not blamed Cass for Victoria’s death and that she likely died while on an assassination mission to compete with her and David Cain. Recognizing the evil doctor’s failure brings Cass out of her coma, just as a brainwashed Tenji has begun attacking his father. Batgirl knocks out both attacking parties, bringing Tenji back to his senses.

With Forget-Me-Not in custody, the heroes note that the corpse was that of a different murdered girl, surmising that Victoria’s body was never recovered. Tenji asks Cass if it means Victoria might still be alive, which Cassandra confirms is her belief.

Analysis

Retcons are an inherent risk in superhero storytelling, because for the majority of the various franchises the writer is invoking long-understood canon to enhance the emotional weight of the idea they’re putting across. Take for example the (as of now) current Matt Fraction run on Batman. We now have a new butler named Verity Pennyworth, Alfred’s heretofore unmentioned great-niece who is replacing her relative’s position under Bruce Wayne. Alfred’s quit his position before, twice in fact, before dying years later. So why hasn’t Bruce been made aware that a successor was waiting in the wings? That actually matters less if the story Fraction tells is good, so an explanation can take its time on it, especially as the efficacy of her presence can be felt in issues to come. Personally I enjoyed her opening debut.

I write all this to put across that for Tate Brombal, there must’ve been a real point to bring in Cassandra’s lost memories of her previous life training under David Cain. In the last issue, it seemed to further torture her in presenting a memory of killing a childhood friend, thereby worsening Cass’ already low opinion of herself, and deepening the (admittedly well worn) conflict of how she views her bloodline in the face of all her assassin relatives. In this issue, we learn that not only was she a scapegoat for another man’s failures, but in fact Victoria Rose a.k.a. Paper Doll was Cassandra’ earliest friend who “taught her how to love”. But not only was Victoria a tragic figure in that Cassandra’s memories of her were taken away, but she’s potentially another lifeline to her past in that she may still be alive – despite the fact that in her memories lil’ Cassandra is looking at a report of Victoria’s dead body.

My problem with this is that Tate Brombal’s run is far too occupied with trying to overwrite Cassandra’s history with family members parallel to the Bat-Family. The comparisons were already present with Shiva and Batman and Oracle, predating this run. But since this series began, the cast of characters introduced have all been trained assassins with dubious moralities meant to reflect Batgirl, in ways which – to my mind – are meant to invoke the Batman characters. Tenji’s relationship with Cass isn’t exactly like the relationship she had with Duke Thomas, but it comes across as though it’s filling the same slot I.E. the fresh-faced, young man who’s eager to fight and tries to hide his insecurities in the face of Batgirl. Far closer of a comparison is Victoria Rose and Stephanie Brown. Victoria is very clearly drawn similarly with Stephanie, and images of the two sharing hobbies as girls feel like one eye was kept on the pages of the Batgirls book from a couple of years ago.

It would be a more interesting retcon to learn that Cass had this blonde friend who “taught her how to love”, and then died, only for her to find a new blonde friend in Stephanie. But the idea that Victoria might still be alive wears me out. What’s the point of bringing in yet another character from her past? If the character remains dead, then the purpose of this arc was to show how much Cass has changed, and how the detective skills she’s learned as Batgirl helped to recognize the truth from her past. Not a bad idea, but the execution ends up muddied and mixing with different purposes.

Additionally, why was Forget-Me-Not’s revenge plan against Cass anyway? He implanted a mental trap to spring on her randomly years into her adulthood? How did she know she would even feel guilt if she lost her memories? Did he imagine she would escape the tutelage of David Cain? Why wouldn’t he blame Cain more directly, or the League of Assassins? And if someone paid for him to attack Cass now, why wouldn’t he just kill her instead of torture her with a blend of a Riddler-meets-Scarecrow mental attack? He says he wasn’t anticipating the others being present, but this is taking place in Gotham City. At the very least, the Bat-Family would likely be around for him to expect trouble.

I also still really dislike the revelation that Forget-Me-Not’s basement dwelling where all of this took place in the past was located in Gotham City. It’s stupidly convenient, and takes away from the international origins of Cassandra and Cain’s backgrounds.

The one aspect I enjoyed from this revelatory issue was Cass’s recognition that the skills she now had were her own, and she did not have to view herself as that eight-year-old girl anymore. It’s a strong realization for the character, illustrating genuine growth and makes this Batgirl embody the difference between someone who better understands herself with someone still searching for herself, which is at times what Cass comes across as in this book.

Overall, I wasn’t thrilled with the conclusion of this mystery, but I wasn’t surprised by it either. I’m just bothered that we’re bringing about more retcons to concern ourselves with, when we could be telling different stories for Batgirl to be challenged by. But this book is way too concerned with addressing her past, it distracts more than entertains.

Batgirl #22Final ThoughtsOverall, I wasn't thrilled with the conclusion of this mystery, but I wasn't surprised by it either. I'm just bothered that we're bringing about more retcons to concern ourselves with, when we could be telling different stories for Batgirl to be challenged by. But this book is way too concerned with addressing her past, it distracts more than entertains.2.5Final ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from our AffiliatesAmazonMy Comic ShopThe post Comic Review: Batgirl #22 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Steph and Theo are back with Season 18 Episode 10 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast. This episode, they review Detective Comics #1111 and Batman #12. We now know the story behind Prion’s death. Does it really matter to our crew? And Verity Pennyworth is making herself comfortable in stately Pennyworth Manor. Do Bruce and Damian feel the same? How about Steph and Theo? And the debate continues as to weather Alfred is an AI or figment of Bruce’s imagination. What are your thoughts? Listen in to get the crew’s thoughts.

Titles Covered In Season 18 Episode 10###### Main Titles

Detective Comics #1111
Batman #12

Greater Gotham

Justice League Unlimited #21
Harley Quinn #64
Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1
Batman / Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1
Justice League: Knight Vision Special #1
DC’s HawkGirl Summer #1
Batgirl #22
Gotham Academy: First Year #6

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In this review of Batman #12, as Batman ponders the new entry into his life, Verity Pennyworth, five assassins slaughter freely in Gotham.Batman #12 main cover by Jorge Jiménez (DC Comics)

BATMAN #12
Written by MATT FRACTION
Art and Main Cover: JORGE JIMENEZ
Variant Covers: DUSTIN NGUYEN, JORGE MOLINA, RYAN SOOK, JORGE JIMENEZ, MARCIO TAKARA, DAVID AJA
Page Count: 40 pages
Release Date: 8/5/26

This review contains spoilers

As Batman #12 begins, Bruce watches Damian and Verity Pennyworth on the couch, talking to his Alfred ghost/hallucination, revealing he’s not yet read Alfred’s last wishes. Ghost Alfred reveals that the Society of the Midnight Key exists to help heroes like Bruce. Still suspicious, Bruce is surprised when Verity gets Damian to laugh deeply.

In Robinson Park, an elderly assassin called Der Giftmorder (Prof. Anton Anker) murders a man with a poison-laced chess piece. In the Neapolitan hotel, a mobster in witness protection falls prey to Lord Fantome (Thomas Doinel). A wrestler called King Panther brags to Vicki Vale about defeating and exposing the murderous Sr. Sueño (Cesario de Diaz Hermanos), but falls prey to Sueno instead. At the restored Monarch Movie Theater, a predatory film director is killed via scorpion in popcorn by Vector (Dr. Amelia Danton). A bluebeard-esque playboy on a blimp is blown up by Spyder Black (Ludlow Durand).

Batman, Damian, and Verity analyze why all these master assassins are taking hits in Gotham now, theorizing it’s linked to the contract on Bruce himself.

At the West Side Beacon Hotel, Der Giftmorder fights Lord Fantome in a glass elevator when Batman crashes in. Though both assassins are deadly with poison and blades, Batman subdues them both, dryly telling people to take the next elevator.

Bruce has his doubts. Damian however… (DC Comics)

In the Financial District at the Bank, Minotaur tortures a Yakuza who tried to go to the police, but he’s warned that his car has been bombed, so he sets off the trap with decoys.

As Verity sews him up, Bruce and Damian argue about the ethics of holding the two assassins hostage themselves instead of turning them over to the authorities. Verity reveals she was behind the assassins meeting each other, so Batman wouldn’t have to fight all five at once, impressing both Batman and Robin.

At Arkham Towers, The Joker receives an unseen visitor who tells Joker that he (the visitor) isn’t going anywhere.

Analysis

Matt Fraction and Jorge Jimenez’s run on Batman continues with an issue that, despite being heavily advertised as the introduction to Verity Pennyworth as a character, mostly spends its energy on five super-assassins (though unpowered). Verity does impress Batman and Robin multiple times in the issue, particularly in her having two assassins meet and fight each other to give Batman an advantage, but nothing specific of her training, history, and little of her personality really shine through yet. There are a lot of plates spinning – the wave of assassins coming for Bruce Wayne, the Ojo’s place among them, the Minotaur, Vandal Savage – but this issue feels a bit deceptive in not giving us very much meat of Verity herself.

Aside from that frustration, though, Fraction and Jimenez provide a diverting cast of wacky assassins, a vicious and very cool fight between two of them and Batman on a glass elevator, and two mysterious pieces of the Minotaur and Joker ongoing threads. Is the Minotaur going to pretend to be dead? Was it Batman visiting Joker in Arkham Tower? We’ll have to wait and see!

Despite the strong action and creativity, Batman #12 is one of the first issues in Fraction’s run that feels a bit short and not quite sufficient in itself. There’s something missing amidst all the murders and punching and Batman posing epically. The sheer number of characters leaves none of them quite feeling as real as one could hope. But Fraction and Jimenez will very likely deepen them all in the coming issues, after Bad Seeds takes over the title for the next two months! It is a bit odd that nothing in this issue seems to lead to Bad Seeds at all – not even an editorial final caption at the end.

Series artist Jorge Jimenez’s main cover features Verity Pennyworth’s blonde self on a platter, all ready to buttle for Batman! (also available as a virgin foil variant for a surcharge) Going with a similar concept, Dustin Nguyen’s latest in his watercolor series of covers for this run features Verity with a Bat-cowl on a platter in the cave. Jorge Molina’s cover shows Batman standing a bit Frank Miller-like – grimacing, thick with muscle, with graffiti behind him. Ryan Sook’s cover features a neon-lit Batman on a chessboard of villains, Gotham in the backdrop – a very nice bit of urban gamesmanship! David Aja’s 1 in 25 incentive variant features one of the many assassins from the issue, holding a red knife and standing in red. Jorge Jimenez also provides a Verity Pennyworth Design variant, showing his clear joy in creating this new figure for the Batman universe. And in a similar vein as Jimenez and Nguyen, Poison Ivy artist Marcio Takara creates a Verity cover with Alfred looming in the background, a pink bubblegum popping on her lips, and a platter of tea in her hand, highlighting the modern nature of our new majordomo!

Final Thoughts

Though it offers several intriguing pieces in the ongoing puzzle of Fraction’s Batman story, this issue doesn’t quite illuminate enough of its central advertised figure to satisfy yet.

Batman #12Final ThoughtsThough it offers several intriguing pieces in the ongoing puzzle of Fraction’s Batman story, this issue doesn't quite illuminate enough of its central advertised figure to satisfy yet.3Final ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from our AffiliatesAmazonMy Comic ShopThe post Review: Batman #12 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Steph and Theo are back with Season 18 Episode 9 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast. This episode, they review Detective Comics #1110, Batman #11, and Absolute Batman #22. Another layer of Prion’s story has been revealed. But does it answer any questions? What is the Ojo’s issue with Dr. Zeller, or is there. And the Robins really has their sights set on Batman, especially Jason. Listen in to get the crew’s thoughts.

Titles Covered In Season 18 Episode 9###### Main Titles

Detective Comics #1110
Batman #11
Absolute Batman #22

Greater Gotham

Justice League Unlimited #20
Harley Quinn #63
Gotham Academy: First Year #5
Batgirl #21
Poison Ivy #46
Batman / Green Arrow / The Question: Arcadia #4
Absolute Catwoman #2
Barbara Gordon: Breakout #3
Clayface: Celebrity Dirt #1
Nightwing #140
Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #53
Batwoman #5
Catwoman #89
Dark Knights of Steel II #1
Wayne Family Adventures #206-209

The post TBU Comic Podcast: Season 18 Episode 9 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In Season 14 Episode 11 of The Batman Universe Podcast, Ian (@ibmmiller) and BJ (@bjshea33) are talking about Batman: The Knight by Chip Zdarsky and Carmine di Giandomenico. What is this very overlooked story? How does it connect to Batman Begins? Is it worth it despite Chip Zdarsky’s uneven history on the Batman title?

For our Bat-Family: What skill and teacher for Batman are you most interested in seeing a story about?Drop us a line at TBU@TheBatmanUniverse.net. As always, if you like this episode, please rate, share, and subscribe on the streaming platform of your preference. It’s a great way to show your support, and it’s quick and easy! Thank you, loyal Bat-fans!

Find past episodes of The Batman Universe Podcast right here.

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In this review of Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1, if it’s the fifth Wednesday of the month and it’s Summertime, expect a little bonus in your pull box courtesy of DC Comics. Two all-new titanic tales featuring the World’s Finest and some endearing costars.Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1 main cover by Dan Mora (DC Comics)

BATMAN/SUPERMAN: WORLD’S FINEST 2026 ANNUAL #1
Written by MARK WAID, MARK RUSSELL, and TYRONE FINCH.
Art by CLAYTON HENRY and PATRICK BOUTIN
Main Cover: DAN MORA
Variant Covers: RAHZZAH and CLAYTON HENRY
Page Count: 48 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
Release Date: 7/29/26

This review contains spoilers

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1 starts with “The Hero Trap” as Clark Kent and Bruce Wayne await their respective adoptive fathers at a Middle Ages themed restaurant (picked out by Clark of course) for Fathers Day. Jonathan Kent and Alfred Pennywoth arrive. Soon, Clark and Bruce covertly tell each other that they received an alert from the JLA. Bruce excuses himself and climbs into an old pickup truck (which turns into the Batmobile).

Back inside, Jonathan ponders the menu as Alfred flashes on the numerous times he treated Batman’s injuries, clearly concerned for Bruce’s safety.

Meanwhile, Batman arrives at his destination which is (a trap) a top-secret laboratory. After fighting through Lex Luthor’s armed thugs, Batman walks through an energy door and finds the Flash who warns Batman that any attempt to escape will doom hundreds of innocents.

Back at the restaurant, Clark excuses himself and moments later becomes trapped alongside Batman and Flash. Jonathan and Alfred bond while swapping tales of raising their sons, and Pa Kent suggests they go find their boys. As the three heroes try to solve the deadly puzzle, Alfred and Pa Kent track them down, using their own distinct approach to distract the guards. The pair realize exchanging an unconscious guard for each hero will allow for them to escape.

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1 “The Hero Trap” ends as the heroes enthusiastically reunite with their fathers before tracking down Lex. Pa Kent and Alfred share a more relaxed conversation (and breadsticks) after their unusual but rewarding Father’s Day.

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1 “Date Night” finds Bat-Mite and Mr. Mxyzptlk going full meta and pitting Batman against Superman for the hand of Lois Lane. With Superman in orbit contending with a decaying satellite, Bruce Wayne encounters Lois and takes her to a county fair (as a favor to Superman to protect her from an attack). Bruce tries and fails to win over Lois and win her a prize (thanks to Superman’s meddling).

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1 “Date Night” ends with Bruce wrestling a greased pig as a disgusted Lois drags Clark away, leaving the finally triumphant Bruce Wayne alone with his prize.

Analysis

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1 offers up two more feel-good stories of yesteryear that span the past and present (at least until the next Crisis reset). Writer Mark Waid continues his favorite pastime of serving up classic Silver Age comic book tropes with a modern twist. Both “The Hero Trap” and “Date Night” play to Waid’s penchant for humorous rivalry between the World’s Finest and their supporting cast.

The awkwardness of the dinner scene between Pa Kent and Alfred is played mostly for laughs but has an undertone of fatherly love and concern for their sons running headlong into danger. Pa Kent’s wise observations serve to comfort Alfred, but not as much as the pair taking it upon themselves to rescue their boys without making it seem out of character or left field. Pa Kent’s folksy distraction and Alfred’s SAS training get the job done.

It’s also heartwarming to see Alfred and Batman drop their guard and show actual affection, in contrast to how they greeted each other in the beginning of the story. Questions arise from stories like these including why superfast Flash and Superman’s reaction time didn’t allow them to escape the trap, but where is the fun in that?

While the stakes are high, it is the emotional undercurrent that provides the most tension in this story.

Watching Batman, Superman and Flash futilely brainstorm is classic, as is Batman and Flash’s facepalm when Superman rushes in. Thanks in part to artist Clay Henry, the story balances the emotional, the heroic and the humorous in equal measure. Also, one might wonder how a high-profile figure Bruce Wayne could appear at a public establishment without being mobbed, but alas, that isn’t the point of the story.

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1 “Date Night” is mostly slapstick, as Superman repeatedly foils Bruce (under the sway from the Fifth Dimensional imps) and his attempts to woo Lois Lane. Pat Boutin’s minimalist art style complements Waid’s absurdist tale, as both writer and artist deliver on the repeated sight gags, wreaking havoc on one poor man’s vehicle. The exaggerated facial expressions and body language sell the story.

Final Thoughts

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1 delivers two charmingly enjoyable stories that will delight both readers of this series and also fans of the classic tales they were inspired by. The fact that Mark Waid has a seemingly inexhaustible supply of story ideas while attracting both established and fledgling art talent into the fold is testament to the quality and love that Waid weaves into every page.

Batman/Superman: World's Finest 2026 Annual #1Final ThoughtsBatman/Superman: World's Finest 2026 Annual #1 delivers two charmingly enjoyable stories that will delight both readers of this series and also fans of the classic tales they were inspired by. The fact that Mark Waid has a seemingly inexhaustible supply of story ideas while attracting both established and fledgling art talent into the fold is testament to the quality and love that Waid weaves into every page.4.5Final ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from our AffiliatesAmazonMy Comic ShopThe post Batman/Superman: World’s Finest 2026 Annual #1 Review appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1, if it’s the fifth Wednesday of the month, DC Comics fills it in with a bonus installment of your favorite ongoing series. Two all-new tales to thrill. Lobo is in the first story (they probably booked him before the movie tanked).Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1 main cover by Nicola Scott (DC Comics)

DETECTIVE COMICS 2026 ANNUAL #1
Written by TOM TAYLOR and DAVE WIELGOSZ
Art by NICOLA SCOTT and FRAN MARISCAL
Main Cover: NICOLA SCOTT
Variant Covers: GUILLEM MARCH and JAVI FERNANDEZ
Page Count: 48 pages
Release Date: 7/29/26

This review contains spoilers

Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1 begins with a story (with a revealing title) that finds Batman at Alfred Pennyworth’s grave commemorating his surrogate father’s memory with his favorite tea. An alert comes too late for Batman to react as intergalactic bounty hunter Lobo zooms by and nabs the Dark Knight. Knowing about the Main Man’s healing abilities allows Batman to cut loose against the miscreant, forcing a truce with Lobo, while also hiring him to track down whoever framed Batman for murder (a regicide).

Batman hitches a ride on Lobo’s bike to the planet Durghan where the king was murdered and the pair forcibly visit the body after gathering information from some of the locals. Batman realizes traces of the dreaded Black Mercy on the deceased’s torso as the duo are ambushed by Durghan’s president, who attacks them both with the same plant.

Bruce Wayne awakens in Wayne Manor, married to Selina Kyle as they send off their daughter Helena and son Damian to see a movie with Bruce’s parents, allowing the pair to prowl Gotham City as Batman and Catwoman. Later, Bruce shares an emotional moment having tea with Alfred. “Batman” tells Bruce it’s time to wake up. Batman frees himself and Lobo and hands over the traitorous president to the authorities.

Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1 “For the Main Man Who has Everything” ends with Batman flying Lobo’s bike back home as Lobo gets his wish to experience the bliss of the Black Mercy again, his secret desire revealed to be a space dolphin.

Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1 “Pyg Pen” unfolds from the point of view of a group of artists using a shared space to create their masterpieces. When Mr. Sty arrives, his obnoxious behavior (and warped Batman obsession) drives away many of the tenants, prompting the remaining few to demand the owner kick out Mr. Sty.

The owner admits that Sty has been compensating her financially and now she feels trapped. One of the tenants discovers that Sty (Professor Pyg) is holding the real Batman prisoner and tells her friends. As Batman and Pyg trade accusations, the tenants burst in and rescue Batman. Pyg gives chase, but Batman overpowers him.

Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1 “Pyg Pen” ends weeks later after most of the tenants have returned and a gallery showing brings art patrons including Bruce Wayne, Ted Kord, Oliver Queen and Dinah Lance making the art show a success.

Analysis

Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1 runs the gamut with its twin tales. “For the Main Man Who has Everything” mixes the familiar with a few clever twists, gorgeous visuals and a healthy dose of humor and pathos. Writer Tom Taylor weaves a new tale into recent continuity, mixing in the mismatched duo road trip trope with a murder mystery and the happy ending the Dark Knight can never have.

The Black Mercy is a solid metaphor in and of itself and provides the emotional weight for the story as Bruce Wayne gets his every wish, even though he never seems to fully buy into it. Having “Batman” break the spell for Bruce is its own metaphor as to who controls Bruce Wayne’s psyche. The Wayne family sequence is brief but poignant, with artist Nicola Scott adding solid artwork, and reintroducing the retro 1990s Batman and Catwoman costumes.

The tea-time sequence with Alfred is momentary but touching and ends with Alfred asking Bruce to go easier on himself. Part of Bruce’s psyche channels Pennyworth’s pearls of wisdom beyond the proper way to serve Earl Grey tea. Lobo for his part gets to shine with his no-nonsense approach. He’s even happy to get paid to help Batman uncover the true killer after getting jabbed in the eye with his own hook. Lobo also enjoys Batman’s bluff.

Nicola Scott’s artwork renders the familiar and the fantastic (outer space dolphins) in equal measure, Scott’s gorgeous layouts and skill with figure work and facial expressions help to sell Taylor’s moving story. Taylor’s script is enjoyable and solid, although Batman repeating Lobo’s healing talents in both narration and later to Lobo himself feels redundant in an otherwise taught script.

“Pyg Tale” is an unusual story, with Batman in the background, although the Dark Knight’s presence looms large before he ever enters Professor Pyg’s lair. The story of the struggling artist cooperative hits the right notes from the importance of creative expression to struggling for your art. The few featured characters come across as decent, likable and resourceful. Writer Dave Wielgosz crafts an overly wordy tale, not allowing Fran Mariscal’s retro styled painted artwork to do more of the heavy lifting.

While “Pyg Tale” could stand a little less text (and that final reveal could use a better angle), the twists and the final sequence make for an overall charming (if imperfect) story. Professor Pyg is an unfortunately gruesome character, but his Mr. Sty fits into the story as a crass and irascible recluse.

Final Thoughts

Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1 succeeds mostly on the efforts and charm of the first story. “For the Main Man Who has Everything” makes this a must read and a visual delight. “Pyg Tale’s” drastic change in look and tone might turn off some readers, but it isn’t without its own good qualities.

Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1Final ThoughtsDetective Comics 2026 Annual #1 succeeds mostly on the efforts and charm of the first story. "For the Main Man Who has Everything" makes this a must read and a visual delight. "Pyg Tale's" drastic change in look and tone might turn off some readers, but it isn't without its own good qualities.4Final ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from our AffiliatesAmazonMy Comic ShopThe post Review: Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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DC Comics October 2026 solicitations have been released by the publisher. Scott Snyder will lead the charge in DC ALL IN SAGA: DARKSEID VS. THE WORLD #1, seeing the battle against Darkseid. The Bad Seeds event will get more books to add to the story – BATMAN: BAD SEEDS–STREETS OF GOTHAM #1, written by Matt Fraction and Mariko Tamaki, and BATMAN: BAD SEEDS–SUNRISE #1, written by Matt Fraction and G. Willow Wilson. DC will also be releasing #1 facsimiles for new fans to start reading – Tom King and Scott Snyder’s Batman runs, Batman: White Knight by Sean Murphy, Batman: Dark Patterns by Dan Watters, and Harley Quinn #1 by Karl Kesel.

Check out the DC Comics solicits within the Batman Universe for October 2026 below, courtesy of DC comics. If you want to see the full solicits for the month of October 2026, you can find them at our sister site, The Comic Book Spot.

(Click images to enlarge)

Prev1of5NextDC ALL IN SAGA: DARKSEID VS. THE WORLD #1
Written by SCOTT SNYDER and JOSHUA WILLIAMSON
Art by SANFORD GREENE and YASMINE PUTRI
Cover by SANFORD GREENE
Variant covers by MARK SPEARS, JAVI FERNÁNDEZ, and ANTHONY MARQUES
Foil variant cover by JUAN FERREYRA
$5.99 US | 48 Pages | Variant $6.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/28/26

The ultimate anti-life in the universe has been at the heart of the DC All In Saga since its beginning…and while the King Omega battle has been won by the forces of good, the war against Darkseid has only just begun! Comics superstars Scott Snyder and Sanford Greene present the hidden past of the being called Uxus, his descent into Darkseid, and his plans for the fate of all creation! It’s DC’s premier villain as you’ve never seen him before, by the biggest names in comics, in DC All In Saga: Darkseid vs. the World!

Prev1of3NextTEEN TITANS #2
Written by KYLE HIGGINS
Art and cover by DANIELE DI NICUOLO
Variant covers by JAVI FERNÁNDEZ, BERNARD CHANG, and DEXTER SOY
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/14/26

After rejecting an offer from Nightwing, the next generation of the Teen Titans have chosen Red Hood as their mentor! But does the harrowed former boy wonder have what it takes to control these impulsive heroes of tomorrow?

The clock is ticking to save their missing friend as the kids take their team out of the chat rooms and onto the streets of Seattle for their first stake out and attempt to infiltrate Ascend.

Prev1of4NextBARBARA GORDON: BREAKOUT #6
Written by MARIKO TAMAKI
Art by PABLO M. COLLAR
Cover by KARL KERSCHL
Variant covers by BABS TARR, MARCIAL TOLEDANO VARGAS, and CHARLIE ADLARD
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/14/26

Two new allies from Barbara’s time with the Birds of Prey, also imprisoned in Supermax, hatch a daring plan to save her…but they better hurry because she’s been accused of murder! And just as things hit a boiling point, Vandal Savage sends one of Gotham’s most dangerous investigators to put an end to the chaos at the prison.

Prev1of4NextABSOLUTE CATWOMAN #4
Written by SCOTT SNYDER and CHE GRAYSON
Art and cover by BENGAL
Variant covers by MARCIO TAKARA, DUSTIN NGUYEN, and IS*A WORKS
1:25 ratio variant cover by RILEY ROSSMO
$4.99 US | 32 Pages | 4 of 6 | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/14/26

Selina Kyle and the Calicos join forces for one last heist to find the Yarn before Cassandra Cain and the League of Shadows do. With their futures hanging in the balance, it’ll require more than just top-of-the-line gear to get their hands on the world’s most powerful supercomputer.

Prev1of5NextBATMAN: BAD SEEDS–STREETS OF GOTHAM #1
Written by MATT FRACTION and MARIKO TAMAKI
Art by BRIAN CHING, GRETEL LUSKY, STEVE LIEBER, and others
Cover by JAVI FERNÁNDEZ
Variant covers by DUSTIN NGUYEN and JAVIER RODRÍGUEZ
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by KYUYONG EOM
$5.99 US | 48 Pages | Variant $6.99 US (card stock) | Variant $8.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/7/26

As the chaos of Bad Seeds erupts across Gotham City and the Bat-Family races against daylight, the citizens of Gotham City must endure the threats of Poison Ivy’s superbloom on their own.

Join Eisner Award-winning writers Matt Fraction and Mariko Tamaki as they tell six street-level tales of fear, courage, and perseverance, starring everyday people who must learn what it means to be a hero—with or without a cape.

Prev1of4NextBATMAN: BAD SEEDS – GOTHAM GENERAL #2
Written by GREG RUCKA
Art and cover by ROSA EKEDAL
Variant covers by JAVI FERNÁNDEZ and MITCH GERADS
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by TAURIN CLARKE
$4.99 US | 32 Pages | 2 of 2 | Variant $5.99 US (card stock) | Variant $7.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/14/26

A hero is delivered to the ED on death’s door. Dastur calls the Mask Protocol. Then the TUCOs arrive.

Award-winning writer Greg Rucka and artist sensation Rosa Ekedal continue taking the doctors and staff of Gotham General through the night of their lives.

As the city falls, Gotham General will rise.

Prev1of4NextBATMAN: BAD SEEDS – GOTHAM CENTRAL #2
Written by CHRISTOPHER CANTWELL
Art and cover by JACOB PHILLIPS
Variant covers by MARTIN SIMMONDS and MIKE PERKINS
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by TAURIN CLARKE
$4.99 US | 32 Pages | 2 of 2 | Variant $5.99 US (card stock) | Variant $7.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/14/26

Trapped on the last operational subway out of Gotham City, Officers Gordon and Espinoza, Anarky, Dr. Annika Zeller, and private investigator Harvey Bullock find themselves at each other’s throats in a deadly pressure cooker situation—with none other than Mr. Zsasz at its center. If that wasn’t bad enough, outside the train is a horde of flesh-eating plant monstrosities! Can the motley crew manage to find a way to safety without killing each other first?

Prev1of5NextBATMAN #14
Written by MATT FRACTION
Art and cover by MATTEO SCALERA
Variant covers by DAN MORA, DUSTIN NGUYEN, and RYAN SOOK
1:25 variant cover by DAVID AJA
Foil variant cover by DAN MORA
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by KYUYONG EOM
Clayface movie variant by JIM LEE
Kingdom Come 30th Anniversary variant cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
$4.99 US | 40 Pages | Variant cover $5.99 US (card stock) | Variant $7.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/7/26

As the night wears on and the threat of dawn looms, Batman must search for answers from the one man capable of stopping Ivy and the bloom. Elsewhere, Verity Pennyworth must defend the Manor from all manner of threats—and they’re about to discover they picked the wrong house to mess with.

Prev1of5NextPOISON IVY #49
Written by G. WILLOW WILSON
Art by ALEX LINS
Cover by JESSICA FONG
Variant covers by NOOBOVICH, DAN MORA, and MANNY VINCENT CARBONILLA
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by STJEPAN ŠEJIĆ
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock) | Variant $6.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/28/26

Things seemed pretty good for Pamela Isley for a time there. Too bad the tables have turned. Now Poison Ivy finds herself stripped of all her power and trapped in a city where she’s public enemy number one. Can she make it out of Gotham alive, or is this the end for her once and for all? Find out in the penultimate chapter of the Bad Seeds saga!

Prev1of5NextHARLEY QUINN #67
Written by ELLIOTT KALAN
Art by CARLOS OLIVARES
Cover by BAILIE ROSENLUND
Variant covers by DAVID NAKAYAMA, TERRY DODSON & RACHEL DODSON, and DERRICK CHEW
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by STJEPAN ŠEJIĆ
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock) | Variant $6.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/28/26

Hey look! 6-7!!! 6-7!!! 6-7!!! Eh? Ehhhh???? See, I can be hip! I got layers—I’m nuanced! Speaking of which, it’s about time that I have a long overdue heart- to-heart with the love of my life, Poison Ivy. All that’s standing between us is a city-sized jungle full of Swamp Thing’s prehistoric cousins. Good thing I brought my trusty Harley-machete! Saddle up, buckeroo; I gotta get my Pammy, and you’re coming with me!!

Prev1of4NextDETECTIVE COMICS #1114
Written by TOM TAYLOR
Art by JEFF SPOKES
Cover by MIKEL JANÍN
Variant covers by DAN MORA and MARGUERITE SAUVAGE
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by DAVID NAKAYAMA
Clayface movie variant cover by BJÖRN BARENDS
$4.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock) | Variant $7.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/21/26

As dawn—and the imminent destruction that daylight will bring—approaches in Gotham City, Batman finds himself out of options. There is only one hope left to save his city, and it lies with the cold, calculating Mr. Freeze. Now, shoulder to (cold) shoulder with one of his greatest foes, the Caped Crusader must fight his way across Gotham in one last desperate attempt to save the city.

Prev1of5NextCATWOMAN #92
Written by TORUNN GRØNBEKK
Art by DANILO BEYRUTH
Cover by SEBA FIUMARA
Variant covers by MARCIO TAKARA, CHARLIE ADLARD, and CHLOE BRAILSFORD
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by DAVID NAKAYAMA
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock) | Variant $6.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/21/26

Catwoman’s one-woman mission through the verdant wastes of Gotham City continues as she finds herself as the unlikely protector of a solitary lost innocent amidst the carnage and chaos.

Prev1of4NextBATWOMAN #8
Written by GREG RUCKA
Art and cover by DaNi
Variant covers by STJEPAN ŠEJIĆ and JAVI FERNÁNDEZ
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by DAVID NAKAYAMA
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock) | Variant $6.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/21/26

In the Cathedral of St. Dumas, the members of a GCPD TUCO squad think that they’re about to kill Batwoman, score a victory for Vandal Savage, and make themselves rich in the process.

Prev1of3NextBATGIRL #24
Written by TATE BROMBAL
Art by TAKESHI MIYAZAWA
Cover by DAVID TALASKI
Variant cover by W. SCOTT FORBES
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by KYUYONG EOM
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock) | Variant $6.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/7/26

It’s lone bat and cub, as Batgirl must race across a dangerous Gotham City transformed by the superbloom to deliver a sick infant to Gotham General! Meanwhile, Tenji and Jaya are left behind to defend Bà Bao’s Noodle Shop from the plant creatures stalking the streets. With a surprise cameo, the high-stakes Batman: Bad Seeds epic continues here!

Prev1of4NextNIGHTWING #143
Written by DAN WATTERS
Art by DAVID LAPHAM
Cover by JORGE FORNÉS
Variant covers by RILEY ROSSMO and SEBA FIUMARA
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by DAVID NAKAYAMA
Clayface movie variant cover by RAFAEL ALBUQUERQUE
$4.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock) | Variant $7.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/21/26

With Robin by his side and the plants of Bad Seeds spreading through Gotham City, Nightwing realizes an old foe is attempting to use this night’s chaos to settle a grudge. But with so much water under the bridge, can the two boy wonders still work together as they used to? Or are the good old days really gone for good?

Prev1of5NextBATMAN: BAD SEEDS–SUNRISE #1
Written by MATT FRACTION and G. WILLOW WILSON
Art and cover by GIUSEPPE CAMUNCOLI and CLIFF RATHBURN
Variant covers by DAN MORA and MARCIO TAKARA
Bad Seeds spot foil variant cover by STJEPAN ŠEJIĆ
Foil variant cover by DAN MORA
Glow-in-the-dark variant cover by MATTEO SCALERA
$5.99 US | 48 Pages | Variant $6.99 US (card stock) | Variant $8.99 US (foil)
ON SALE 10/28/26

At sunset, Poison Ivy unleashed an attack that transformed Gotham City into a prehistoric nightmare. If she isn’t stopped by the first light of dawn, the city will be lost forever…along with all who dwell there. With the clock ticking, Batman and his allies will put it all on the line to save the day before everything changes forever at sunrise.

The superstar creative team of Matt Fraction, G. Willow Wilson, Giuseppe Camuncoli, and Cliff Rathburn proudly presents the Earth-shattering conclusion to Batman: Bad Seeds in an oversize special that shows the only thing more impossible to survive than this night in Gotham…is the day.

Prev1of6NextJUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #24
Written by MARK WAID and NICOLE MAINES
Art and cover by DAN MORA
Variant covers by BRUNO REDONDO, NATHAN SZERDY, RACHTA LIN, and STEVE SKROCE
Kingdom Come 30th Anniversary variant cover by STJEPAN ŠEJIĆ
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/28/26

The disastrous war between Lex Luthor and Batman has left the Justice League less united than ever…but change is brewing on the horizon, and one threat is destined to bring the JLU together again: the future. Dreamer, Brainiac Queen, Red Tornado, and more vie for the fate of tomorrow—and only the return of Superman himself can hope to sort out the chaos!

Prev1of5NextJUSTICE LEAGUE: DARK REALM SPECIAL #1
Written by DAN MORA
Art and cover by DAN MORA
Variant covers by JUAN FERREYRA, ARIEL OLIVETTI, and SERG ACUÑA
Foil variant cover by DANIEL BAYLISS
$5.99 US | 48 Pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/28/26

The Justice League is an Unlimited force across the Earth and the stars… but the dimensions beyond our realm of understanding are now breaking through! Or have they been here this whole time? In his writing debut, visionary artist Dan Mora at last reveals the untold origin of Cadejos—the epic, fire-breathing, wolf-like powerhouse of the Justice League Unlimited— on a journey of redemption, power, and vengeance. From folklore legend to superhero, witness a battle of good vs. evil like you’ve never seen before!

Prev1of4NextBATMAN/SUPERMAN: WORLD’S FINEST #56
Written by MARK WAID
Art by ADRIÁN GUTIÉRREZ
Cover by DAN MORA
Variant covers by BEN HARVEY and ADRIÁN GUTIÉRREZ
Kingdom Come 30th Anniversary variant cover by DAVID NAKAYAMA
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/21/26

Superman’s sworn duty is to protect life in all its forms. Ra’s al Ghul’s unstoppable goal is to eliminate 90 percent of the Earth’s population. How can Batman and Rob- in prevent an enraged Man of Steel from taking his anger out on their enemy—and in doing so, shattering his vow never to kill?

Prev1of3NextNEW TITANS #40
Written by TATE BROMBAL
Art by SAMI BASRI
Cover by TAURIN CLARKE
Variant covers by BABS TARR and HICHAM HABCHI
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/21/26

A mining operation funded by billionaire Commodore Murphy’s Green Corp. has accidentally unearthed a long-forgotten protector of the Amazon! But as the powerful jaguar spirit rages, can the Titans and the Amazons quell its otherworldly fury? And what lost secrets is it protecting?!

Prev1of5NextBATMAN & ROBIN: YEAR ONE – DYNAMIC DUOS #3
Written by MARK WAID and CHRIS SAMNEE
Art and cover by CHRIS SAMNEE
Variant covers by JIM CHEUNG, GORAN PARLOV, and DIEGO OLORTEGUI
Clayface movie variant cover by BRIAN BOLLAND
$4.99 US | 32 Pages | 3 of 12 | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/14/26

While Batman foils the plans of the Mad Hatter, Robin has been sent in undercover to infiltrate the Wolf Pack and figure out who’s pulling their strings!

Prev1of3NextCLAYFACE: CELEBRITY DIRT #4
Written by JUDE ELLISON S. DOYLE
Art by FRAN GALÁN
Cover by PATRICO DELPECHE
Variant covers by MIKE DEL MUNDO and MARC ASPINALL
Clayface movie variant cover by FRANK CHO
$3.99 US | 32 Pages | 4 of 6 | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/14/26

Looking into numerous disappearances and the bizarre side effects of Losilmix, Basil Karlo and Dr. Victoria October start to put the pieces together—and the evidence says Basil Karlo is to blame. Their findings lead Basil straight into the crosshairs of Lady Clay—but is she here to help or to end Basil’s Hollywood dreams once and for all?

Prev1of6NextDARK KNIGHTS OF STEEL II #4
Written by TOM TAYLOR
Art by OTTO SCHMIDT
Cover by YASMINE PUTRI
Variant covers by TRAVIS MOORE, GERALD PAREL, and LUCIO PARILLO
$4.99 US | 32 Pages | 4 of 12 | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/21/26

General Amanda Waller’s traitorous gambit for the throne has come to fruition, and she’s recruited a murderous squad to cut down any who dares stand in her way. Just how deep does the rot of her corruption run? And who will be left standing once she is crowned regent of the Kingdom of Metropolis at the zenith of her power?

Source: DC Comics

BATMAN #227 FACSIMILE EDITION
Written by DENNY O’NEIL and MIKE FRIEDRICH
Art by IRV NOVICK and DICK GIORDANO
Cover by NEAL ADAMS
Foil variant cover by NEAL ADAMS ($6.99 US)
Blank sketch cover ($4.99 US)
$3.99 US | 32 Pages
ON SALE 10/14/26

When a disturbing letter from Alfred’s niece, Daphne, raises concern for her safety, Batman takes it upon himself to investigate her new position at far-off Gothos Mansion—ancestral home of the mysterious Clifton Heathrow. There, the Dark Knight comes face-to-face with the terrifying secret kept by six generations of the Heathrow family and the dark purpose for which Daphne has been chosen! A bone-chilling Batman tale rendered in all its gothic glory courtesy of the devilish Denny O’Neil!

Source: DC Comics

HARLEY QUINN #1 FACSIMILE EDITION
Written by KARL KESEL
Art and cover by TERRY DODSON and RACHEL DODSON
Foil variant cover by TERRY DODSON and RACHEL DODSON ($7.99 US)
Blank sketch cover ($5.99 US)
$4.99 US | 52 Pages
ON SALE 10/28/26

Harley loves her “Puddin’,” her madcap “Mr. J.”—and the Joker loves Harley right back! Right? RIGHT?!? That’s why when the Joker takes offense at the new Joker-themed roller coaster opening at Happyland amusement park, he sends his best beloved gal to fix it but good! He’s definitely not planning to off our harlequin heroine, nope! But hey, who’s got a degree in psychology and knows exactly who’s playing who in this first-ever issue of her first-ever ongoing series? Harley Quinn, that’s who!

Source: DC Comics

BATMAN #423 FACSIMILE EDITION
Written by JIM STARLIN
Art by DAVE COCKRUM
Cover by TODD McFARLANE
Foil variant cover by TODD McFARLANE ($6.99 US)
Blank sketch cover ($4.99 US)
$3.99 US | 32 Pages
ON SALE 10/7/26

While enjoying a late-night respite at a Gotham diner, three off-duty cops compare their three very different takes on the Batman, each having experienced a memorable run-in with the Dark Knight at some point earlier that evening. With an iconic cover by none other than Todd McFarlane!

Source: DC Comics

BATMAN #1
Written by SCOTT SNYDER
Art and cover by GREG CAPULLO

The first chapter in Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo’s revered Batman: The Court of Owls saga!

Source: DC Comics

BATMAN #1
Written by TOM KING
Art and cover by DAVID FINCH

Tom King’s (Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow) epic run on Batman starts here with art by superstar artist David Finch!

Source: DC Comics

BATMAN: WHITE KNIGHT #1
Written and drawn by SEAN MURPHY

Superstar writer/artist Sean Murphy’s Eisner Award-nominated DC Black Label Batman saga begins here!

Source: DC Comics

BATMAN DARK PATTERNS #1
Written by DAN WATTERS
Art and cover by HAYDEN SHERMAN

The start of acclaimed writer Dan Watters and Absolute Wonder Woman artist Hayden Sherman’s evergreen Batman mysteries exploring the early days of Batman’s place within Gotham City!

Source: DC Comics

HARLEY QUINN VOL. 3: THE HARQ KNIGHT RETURNS!
Written by ELLIOTT KALAN
Art by CARLOS OLIVARES
Cover by BRANDT&STEIN
$19.99 US | 200 Pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-901-1
ON SALE 12/8/26

Harley Quinn has a new lease on life—and it’s darker and grittier than ever! But there are two sides to Harley’s personality, and when each one gets her own body, it leads to a battle unlike any other! Plus, the debuts of the reality-warping Monochromatic Man and the (comparatively normal) Harley Quinn Revenge Squad! Collects Harley Quinn #58-65.

Source: DC Comics

BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT DC COMPACT COMICS ADVENTURES
Written by KELLEY PUCKETT and MARTIN PASKO
Art by TY TEMPLETON, BRAD RADER, and RICK BURCHETT
Cover by TY TEMPLETON
$7.99 US | 152 Pages | 5 1/2″ x 8 1/2″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79951-714-6
ON SALE 3/30/27

The Joker. The Penguin. Catwoman. Scarecrow. Killer Croc. Clayface. The Riddler. All have tried to lay claim to the streets, but the one truth that is whispered wherever they appear: Gotham City belongs to the Batman!

the unsolvable, overcoming fear…The Dark Knight fights foes new and old in his ongoing quest to protect the streets of Gotham City. The legendary adventures are about to begin!

The creative team of Kelley Puckett, Martin Pasko, Ty Templeton, Rick Burchett, and others proudly presents the compact edition of The Batman Adventures #1-6—a collection of all-original stories that are thrilling, moving, and just plain fun for readers of all ages. Perfectly capturing the tone and style pioneered in Batman: The Animated Series—the iconic cartoon that defined the Dark Knight for a generation of fans—it’s Gotham City’s guardian at his finest!

Source: DC Comics

DC FINEST: BATMAN: THE CURSE OF CRIME ALLEY
Written by LEN WEIN, DENNIS O’NEIL, BOB ROZAKIS, and others
Art by IRV NOVICK, DON NEWTON, JOHN CALNAN, and others
Cover by JIM APARO
$39.99 US | 664 Pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-961-5
ON SALE 11/24/26

A new decade dawns in the storied saga of the Dark Knight Detective as the 1970s roll into the 1980s in these era-defining tales from the Pages of Batman and Detective Comics! Crafted by creative titans like Len Wein, Don Newton, Dennis O’Neil, and Irv Novick, DC Finest: Batman: The Curse of Crime Alley also features some of the first DC work from the vanguard of a new generation of talent, including Jim Starlin, Walter Simonson, and Frank Miller! Collects Batman #307-324, Detective Comics #481-490, The Brave and the Bold #159, and a story from the “Super-Star Holiday Special” DC Special Series #21.

Source: DC Comics

JUSTICE LEAGUE: ORIGIN: DC COMPACT COMICS EDITION
Written by GEOFF JOHNS
Art by JIM LEE, SCOTT WILLIAMS, SANDRA HOPE, and others
Cover by JIM LEE and SCOTT WILLIAMS
$9.99 US | 160 Pages | 5 1/2″ x 8 1/2″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-980-6
ON SALE 12/1/26

It’s the dawn of a new age. Superheroes—like Superman in Metropolis and Gotham’s mysterious Batman—are new and frightening to the world at large. But when a series of strange attacks unleashes an otherworldly threat on Earth, these heroes will have to stand together…if they can stand each other!

Superman. Batman. Wonder Woman. Green Lantern. The Flash. Aquaman. Cyborg. Though young and inexperienced, brash and overconfident, each one alone is a powerful force in the battle of good against evil. Together, they may be the only thing on Earth that can stop the alien warlord Darkseid from claiming our planet as his own. Together…they will become the Justice League!

Justice League: Origin (collecting Justice League #1-6) unites superstar creators Geoff Johns (Green Lantern) and Jim Lee (Batman: Hush) to deliver the most talked-about comic book of the new millennium…and reimagine the DC Universe as never before!

Source: DC Comics

DC VS. VAMPIRES: WORLD WAR V VOL. 2
Written by MATTHEW ROSENBERG, SHANE McCARTHY, CECIL CASTELLUCCI, and others
Art by OTTO SCHMIDT, FÁBIO VERAS, MARLEY ZARCONE, and others
Cover by OTTO SCHMIDT
$19.99 US | 224 Pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-997-4
ON SALE 12/1/26

Matthew Rosenberg and Otto Schmidt reunite to bring their tale in the DC vs. Vampires universe to a shocking end, set against a world plunged into a grueling winter. As the human resistance gathers strength against the menacing vampire queen Barbara Gordon, an even more sinister threat lurks just beyond sight.

The malevolent Darkseid has tightened his grip on this ravaged planet, forcing a tenuous alliance between humans and vampires. To stave off complete annihilation, they must join forces to confront the terrifying New God. But their ultimate victory lies in a prophecy surrounding the child of Mister Miracle. Can these bitter foes keep from tearing each other apart long enough to uncover their greatest chance at survival?

This collection delivers the foreboding conclusion of DC vs. Vampires: World War V, including issues #7-12.

Source: DC Comics

BATMAN: BEYOND THE WHITE KNIGHT: THE DELUXE EDITION
Written by SEAN MURPHY and CLAY McCORMACK
Art by SEAN MURPHY, SIMONE DI MEO, and GEORGE KAMBADAIS
Cover by SEAN MURPHY
$49.99 US | 304 Pages | 7 1/16″ x 10 7/8″ | Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-77950-081-0
ON SALE 12/7/26

Writer/artist Sean Murphy continues his expansion of the White Knight universe with this next thrilling chapter, Batman: Beyond the White Knight, which further explores the love/hate dynamic between the Dark Knight and the Clown Prince of Crime, as well as Batman’s relationship with the rest of the Bat- Family. This deluxe hardcover edition collects Batman: Beyond the White Knight #1-8, Batman: White Knight Presents: Red Hood #1-2—chronicling Jason Todd’s lost years in the White Knight universe—a variant cover gallery, and development art detailing Murphy’s creation of the world of Neo-Gotham.

Source: DC Comics

TEEN TITANS: TOGETHER CONNECTING COVER EDITION
Written by KAMI GARCIA
Art and cover by GABRIEL PICOLO
$16.99 US | 208 Pages | 6″ x 9″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-307-1
ON SALE 11/3/2026 Kori Anders wants to trust newcomers Dick, Raven, Gar, Max, and Damian, but can she? After all, accusing H.I.V.E. of abduction, experimentation, and torture is the same as accusing family friend Lynch Fairweather! And Vic Stone, whom she definitely trusts, has a summer job designing next-level prosthetics in Edge Labs, which funds certain projects at H.I.V.E. Plus, Kori’s sister Kira is singing the praises of working with H.I.V.E., offering an inside look at the potential a partnership could bring. They’ve got a plan for taking down Raven’s demon father Trigon. They’ve got a plan for training the next generation of superheroes. They’ve got plans for everything. Lines become blurred as the teens struggle to agree on the best plan of action. H.I.V.E. might be their greatest ally…but at what cost? And can the Titans pull together a plan before they fall apart? Join #1 New York Times bestselling author Kami Garcia (Beautiful Creatures) and artist Gabriel Picolo, the creative duo behind the New York Times bestselling Teen Titans graphic novel series, for the ultimate showdown!

The word TOGETHER, shown in rainbow gradient here, will be a holographic foil on the final cover.

The post October 2026 TBU DC Solicitations appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Another one-issue show! After I speak about my time in Italia, my experience with the reality show “Summer House,” and my opinions on Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” I review Barbara Gordon: Breakout #3. Stella’s Dungeon of Smut, listener emails, and my literature recommendations also appear.

The post Episode 275 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Harley Quinn #64, break out your d-list supervillain scorecard as Harley’s “greatest” enemies team up to destroy Bat-Quinn (but only one-at-a-time). But who is the true mastermind behind Harley’s numerous nemeses?Harley Quinn #64 main cover by BrandtStein (DC Comics)

HARLEY QUINN #64
Written by ELLIOTT KALAN
Art by CARLOS OLIVARES
Main Cover: BRANDT&STEIN
Variant Covers: DAVID NAKAYAMA, TERRY & RACHEL DODSON, DERRICK CHEW
Page Count: 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
Release Date: 7/22/26

This review contains spoilers

Harley Quinn #64 picks up after the Harley Quinn Revenge Squad leveled part of Mrs. Grimaldi’s apartment and injured both Mrs. G and Bat-Quinn (who the bad guys think is still Harley). Bat-Quinn awakens sometime later strapped to a roller coaster in an abandoned theme park and breaks free. She realizes she has been outfitted with new gear and an oxygen mask to protect her from monochromatic poisoning she received earlier.

Bat-Quinn’s inner monologue has a sizable workout as the grim and gritty heroine searches the park for the missing Mrs. Grimaldi but encounters first of several enhanced baddies including Brock Blomquist, the gun-toting so-called “Super Hunter” followed by the angst-ridden Generation Z Penny Plunderer as the pair unleash their pent-up frustration on Bat-Quinn. Meanwhile, the anti-hero’s monochromatic infection worsens as her face and hair are drained of all color.

Things shift in Bat-Quinn’s favor after 4Forehand (formerly Backhand, as if that matters) confronts her in a hall of mirrors over the savage beating she gave him on live television. Bat-Quinn compliments one of the villain’s many literary quotes which sends him over the moon (not literally). The pair are attacked by Colonel Blimp (in a hover car), but Bat-Quinn gets the drop on the Colonel as he monologues. 4Forehand returns and gives Bat-Quinn a helping hand (it’s funny when you see the artwork).

Another sad sack villain called The Amenity is quickly dispatched as 4Forehand leads Batquinn to Mrs. Grimaldi’s likely location.

Harley Quinn #64 ends as Mrs. G is found safe and sound, held hostage by the mastermind of the entire scheme by none other than Harleen, Harley Quinn’s alternate personality given human form. Batquinn is ready for this to end.

Analysis

Harley Quinn #64 again explores Bat-Quinn’s character through her inner monologue, but to greater effect in this issue as the would-be dark avenger experiences a bit of personal growth. Writer Elliot Kalan balances the rapid-fire action sequences with the rapid-fire dialogue delivery and manages to make Bat-Quinn’s innermost thoughts less grating. But is what Bat-Quinn believes to be character development in fact Harley Quinn’s personality reasserting itself?

The twist reveal of Harleen as the mastermind behind the revenge squad (and Mrs. Grimaldi’s kidnapping) makes sense, but aside from Harley always being her own worst enemy (Harley Quinn #64 makes that statement literal), what prompted the so-called “Quinntellect” break bad? Perhaps a reveal next issue before the “Bad Seeds” event swallows up Gotham. HQ is for sure to be involved where Ivy is concerned.

The revenge squad storyline allows Kalan to come full circle with many of the colorful characters he has created for his Harley run (including Bat-Quinn and Harleen), allowing for Bat-Quinn to stand in as Harley’s proxy (she certainly remembers the details). While this doesn’t appear to be Kalan’s last hurrah, many plot points seeded across the past two years seem to be weaving together for an enjoyable comedy of errors.

Bat-Quinn comes off as vulnerable and thus more likable in her narration than in previous issues. Her deadpan humor is a welcome change even when she’s not trying to be funny.

Carlos Olivares continues to provide wildly energetic artwork that complements the heightened reality of Harley’s world and the colorful backdrop of Throatcutter Hill and its unusual denizens. From the hazy dream state opener to the sprawling shot of the nearly abandoned theme park to Bat-Quinn’s encounters with the various revenge squad members, Olivares nails the assignment.

In service of the dangerous absurdity of Bat-Quinn’s predicament, Olivares’ tight camera angles and dramatic close-ups convey the anti-hero’s current existential crisis and her spreading monochromatic infection (with help from colorist Marissa Louise).

Final Thoughts

Harley Quinn #64 sets up the final chapter of “The Harq Knight Returns” with wild action, humorous callbacks, gritty and colorful action and a wild cliffhanger.

Harley Quinn #64Final ThoughtsHarley Quinn #64 sets up the final chapter of "The Harq Knight Returns" with wild action, humorous callbacks, gritty and colorful action and a wild cliffhanger.4Final ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from our AffiliatesAmazonMy Comic ShopThe post Harley Quinn #64 Comic Review appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Absolute Batman #13, Selina Kyle makes her return to Gotham to find a Bruce Wayne unlike the one she knew before.Absolute Batman #13 main cover by Nick Dragotta (DC Comics)

ABSOLUTE BATMAN #13
Written by SCOTT SNYDER
Art and Main Cover: NICK DRAGOTTA
Variant Covers: STANLEY “ARTGERM” LAU, JENNY FRISON, ADAM HUGHES, BRIAN BOLLAND, DAVID NAKAYAMA, NICK DRAGOTTA
Page Count: 32 pages
Release Date: 10/8/25

This review contains spoilers

Absolute Batman #13 opens with Bruce and Selina debriefing after meeting with Falcone about Waylon’s fight and how it is the only way Waylon can win.

Cut back to the present and Batman is asking Catwoman why she has returned and she says that his mother called her because he was missing for four months. Alfred mentions that she has heard of her and that Batman shouldn’t trust her. Batman says to not worry because she is leaving right now.

Cut to Bruce and Selina doing the Battusi in the sheets if you catch my drift. Bruce asks Selina if she wants to go out on a date and we see a great splash page of Batman and Catwoman leaping through Gotham.

They go to meet the Red Hood gang to speak with their leader but they attack. As they attack, Catwoman pulls out a gun and mows them down. Batman is outraged but Catwoman just shot them full of tranquilizers. In a ferris wheel, someone is about to fire a rocket at them but Batman still has the venom in his veins and Hulks out and knocks the whole ferris wheel over. You read that right. He knocks down a whole ferris wheel.

Catwoman calms him down but Batman says how he needs help because he is going to destroy Bane and Ark M because they made him into a monster. The leader of the Red Hoods says how they weren’t sure of Batman but after hearing they want to take down Ark M, they’re sold. The leader is revealed to be….. Harley Quinn.

Bruce and Selina reunites (Alfred is there too)… (DC Comics)

Batman puts a message out on tv to Bane. One final battle, winner take all. If Bane wins, he’ll go back to Ark M but Batman guarantees victory.

Flashback to Bruce telling Waylon about the deal with Falcone and Waylon is furious and fires Bruce and is sad that his best friend doesn’t believe in him.

Selina is telling Bruce not to use the venom because it can really damage him. Bruce tells Selina he has to use it because he can control it and it’s the only way he can win. Selina begs but Bruce says that she should leave and she does. As Absolute Batman #13 ends, Alfred tells Bruce that he is right and to do whatever it takes.

Analysis

We finally meet Absolute Catwoman in Absolute Batman #13 and while she leaves I think we all know that she will show up in the Batman/Bane fight ala the Tom King run and provide some much needed help to Batman to turn the tide.

It seems that this venom can almost take over Bruce’s mind and create a Hulk/Bruce Banner situation. Will we get Catwoman playing Black Widow to Batman’s Hulk? The sun’s getting real low….

Dragotta’s Batman seems a lot simpler and cleaner and I really like it a lot. The splash of Batman and Catwoman is Dragotta’s best work so far and I hope he keeps it up for the Batman vs Bane fight.

Quick glimpse of Absolute Harley and of course she’s a good guy. Or anti hero. I knew the leader of the gang was going to be a familiar character but I didn’t suspect Harley but I should have.

We know Joker is coming. Is he part of Ark M? Harley mentioned that she doesn’t like Ark M. Did they do something to her boyfriend?

Final Thoughts

My bold prediction for the Batman/Bane fight. This time Batman lifts Bane up and breaks his back on his knee in a venom fueled rage.

Absolute Batman #13Final ThoughtsMy bold prediction for the Batman/Bane fight. This time Batman lifts Bane up and breaks his back on his knee in a venom fueled rage.3Final ScoreThe post TBU Comic Book Review: Absolute Batman #13 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Batman and Robin #26, the Dynamic Duo come face to face with the Quiet Man as he closes in on the Penguin.Batman and Robin #26 main cover by Tony S. Daniel (DC Comics)

BATMAN AND ROBIN #26
Written by PHILLIP KENNEDY JOHNSON
Art by FICO OSSIO
Main Cover: TONY S. DANIEL
Variant Covers: GUILLEM MARCH, CLAYTON CRAIN, ASHLEY WOOD
Page Count: 32 pages
Release Date: 10/8/25

This review contains spoilers

Batman and Robin #26 opens in a wood workshop with an old man working on a project while the news reports about the attack on the Iceberg Lounge.

At the Lounge, Batman and Robin questions Penguin and his men about the attack. The unknown assailant was unarmed, before taking the guns of the guards, talked real quiet and polite, and left silver dollars on the eyes of the deceased. Penguin claims to not know who the man was, and after Batman leaves, he reveals that he isn’t sure, but he does suspect someone very concerning.

Robin confesses his regret about going to the movies, but Batman insists he wants his son to have both the life of Robin and of Damian Wayne, and refuses to be controlled by fear.

The Quiet man, in his hideout, cleans his guns while talking to his deceased son. He tells him he laid silver coins on the dead men, but “didn’t’ learn a damn thing”. There is also a note on his bedside table that reads “He’s out. Penguin and Two-Face know where. Don’t let ‘em get away with it.” The Quiet Man wonders if he will join his son tonight.

In the Bat-cave Damian practices fighting while Bruce examines the coins. They’re very rare Justice Dollars that had evidently been buried in a box near a body. They’re worth about $25,000 each, meaning that the man left $250,000 worth of coins on the corpses at the crime scene. Having left a bug at the Iceberg Lounge, Batman knows that Penguin thinks Two-Face is involved somehow, either as a culprit or a potential victim, and has arranged to meet with him at the Asher Estate. Batman and Robin go stake it out.

Penguin and Two-Face reveal that The Quiet Man is related to The Falcone Heist, and that he was released two days ago. Just then the man in questions appears, telling the two villains that they wronged him, and they know who he wants – their friend who killed his son. Robin, distracted by the Gotham Irregulars, notices and swoops in while Batman is en route.

Batman and Robin #26 wraps up with the fight escalating and taking people out until it’s just The Quiet Man, Batman, and Robin duking it out. While fighting, The Quiet Man reveals that someone Batman set free the lunatic that killed his boy, and Batman puts the pieces together – he’s after Arnold Wesker, The Ventriloquist, who currently is creating a wood puppet at a workshop.

Penguin doesn’t understand how this works (DC Comics)

Analysis

First off, I am excited that Batman is refusing to back down from doing father/son things as Bruce and Damian. He isn’t letting the fear of what will happen when they’re not on duty control him, which is a huge point of growth for the character. It’s also a good growth point for Damian showing him as a sort of mentor for the Gotham Irregulars, not lashing out or judging them for doing what they have to to live on the streets (i.e. steal food).

The art in Batman and Robin #26 is great, with very well-executed and fun action sequences. A highlight is the scene where Damian practices during Bruce’s analysis and hilariously decapitates a dummy hostage, claiming she “was acting suspicious.” This could foreshadow a future mistake or show his growth in accepting them. I also enjoyed seeing Damian’s relationship with the Gotham Irregulars deepen; he accepts their stolen snack and even compliments it, a sign he’s less “jerky” than before. He’s clearly starting to take on a mentor role, a development I hope is permanent.

The story itself is okay. Two-Face has very limited panel time, appearing only to confirm that the Penguin knows who the Quiet Man is, and then they and their goons get their butts handed to them before Batman and Robin take over as the primary fighters. The man appears to have a straight forward revenge motivation, and when it is revealed that the “big bad” that he’s after is the puppet-less Ventriloquist, I have to say my hopes weren’t raised and my appetite for the story was not whetted.

However, if the relationship building continues as is, and the character development and interactions stay as lovely as they have been so far, I am okay with it.

Batman and Robin #26Final ThoughtsI am liking the relationship and interactions between Batman and Robin much better, even if the "villain" himself isn't all that interesting. ProsRelationships Getting BetterBatman and Robin's relationship is improving with Batman's being less judgey, The Gotham Irregulars are back, and are helping the case while also forcing Damian to be a mentor, which he needsConsLackluster StoryThe Quiet Man is boring, not excited about the Ventriloquist yet, though he appears to have creator space friends. 3.3Final ScoreThe post Comic Book Review: Batman and Robin #26 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Batman #2, the Teen Wonder is in a world of hurt and a world of trouble with the GCPD! Can Batman come to his partner’s rescue in time?Batman #2 main cover by Jorge Jiménez (DC Comics)

BATMAN #2
Written by MATT FRACTION
Art and Main Cover: JORGE JIMÉNEZ
Variant Covers: JIM LEE, JULIAN TOTINO TEDESCO, JORGE JIMÉNEZ, MICHAEL ALLRED, DAVID AJA
Page Count: 40 pages
Release Date: 10/1/25

This review contains spoilers

Batman #2 begins with a brief flashback at the former Wayne Manor years ago. Bruce is getting ready to train Tim to drive the Batmobile, to the delight of Alfred and displeasure of Damian. To prepare him properly, Bruce instructs Tim on how to drive a stick-shift manual truck, which Tim has difficulty getting the hang of.

Cut to moments ago in Gotham, some armed robbers hold up a delivery truck. One of the gunmen gets nervous and shoots the driver. Another flees, and gets dropped by Robin (Tim Drake). Just as he’s inspecting what he thinks is a new narcotic but is actually baby formula, GCPD officers arrive at the scene. The gunman starts to run and gets gunned down by the cops. Robin begins exiting the scene as well but gets shot in the side while in mid-air, knocking him out. He awakens handcuffed in the paddy wagon, surrounded by uncuffed goons. The cops – under the employ of Commissioner Vandal Savage – are determined to prove they’re tough on crime and don’t need Savage in Gotham but “rough riding” the prisoners harshly throughout the streets of Gotham. Despite the harsh ride and the attacking thugs in the back, Robin manages to hold his own long enough for Batman to arrive on the scene, taking out the paddy wagon with some “Batspikes” which shred the armored car’s tires.

Freeing his partner from the back of the wagon, the Dynamic Duo are again held at gunpoint by the crooked cops. They manage to disable the cops just as they’re shot at, resulting in the policemen hitting each other. As Batman’s back is turned, the more aggressive of the two cops fires a blast from his shotgun right at the back of Batman’s head.

Temporarily knocked unconscious, Batman comes to and is led by Robin to the Batmobile, the latter having bandaged up the bleeding cops on the ground. Robin takes the wheel, dismayed that the current edition of the Batmobile has thirteen gears installed on it. As the two speed throughout the night, word of the destroyed paddy wagon and the shot police officers make the evening news. Savage arrives at the scene where one of the policemen has had his bandages removed and he’s died from his injuries. Savage returns to GCPD headquarters and ties the dead policeman to Batman and Robin, brandishing a bloodied batarang as evidence of their criminality.

Analysis

Batman #2 is a very solid, straightforward Batman comic, confidently told by a writer who clearly loves the characters and is leisurely pacing out the story because he enjoys playing in the world of Gotham. Issue #1 of Matt Fraction’s fresh new run had Batman take on Killer Croc – establishing his new suit, gadgets and detective skills. This second issue continues presenting the reader with new gadgets for both Batman and Robin, telling a fun tale of instructing Tim on a skill he now needs to save his and Bruce’s life. It’s a somewhat standard “Batman vs. the Gotham City Police” story, but it’s presented in a fun enough way that any sense of well-worn tropes or cliches goes unnoticed by this longtime fan.

In fact, most stories that have Batman against the cops haven’t really gone down as detailed as this issue does, with the relatively genteel nature of Batman and robin allowing two everyday police to get the drop on them. For a while, I was questioning Robin actually suffering damage with his gunshot wound, as the Bat-suits have now long been established as being generally bulletproof. Of course they still hurt, but to immediately draw blood was somewhat questionable. Even though Tim later confirms that most of his armor his shield his body from the worst of it, he’s bleeding all throughout this issue. It’s not that big of a deal, because it help showcase how both he and Batman operate on the backfoot when the odds are against them. It’s also rare to see both Batman and Robin battered and bleeding in the same story, slowly making their way to the Batmobile and briefly arguing on who’s in worse shape. It’s a fun, detailed bit of writing and nice showcase for the Caped Crusaders.

Of course, Tim Drake fans are eating with Batman #2, seeing their favorite Boy Wonder back with the Dark Knight. I’m personally not a reader of the ongoing Batman and Robin series, with Damian not ranking terribly high on my list of favorite Robins. And while it is certainly a step back for Tim to just fall back into the sidekick role with Bruce, I love seeing these two work together. I think in terms of Batman and Robin partnerships, the original Bruce and Dick team may be my favorite, but Bruce and Tim is also right behind it. While Tim enjoyed many solo adventures in his original ongoing series in the 90s, Chuck Dixon also wrote Batman and Robin regularly together during his run of Detective Comics. This doesn’t read exactly like that, mainly because Tim was younger then and much older now, but it’s just plain good to see them work together here.

Tim knows Bruce, he knows what he’s both good and bad at, and he can reason and communicate with him better than most. I also loved seeing him break out of his handcuffs and outfight the thugs in the armored car all on his own. Most stories don’t tend to show off Tim’s fighting skills, leaving that to the acrobatic Dick or tough-as-nails Jason or Damian. Tim is in his late teens/early twenties, and as such should be a much more accomplished martial artist, so it was not only enjoyable to see that on display but also logical. I will say, speaking as a Tim fan, I don’t think Fraction got his voice exactly right. Lines like “Man, you really got your bell rung.” and him yelling about the thirteen gears in the Batmobile sounded more like a generic Robin reaction than something Tim would say. It’s not a huge demerit, not like Tim was made to look bad or anything. Just something that jumped out at me.

Jorge Jiménez is mostly the star of this book, sprinkling in fun artistic details like the info-dumps on the various new gadgets (I love the Batboots) and even subtle shots like the Batmobile riding into the night and the faint visages of Batman and Robin through the window. I have to say, the exact designs of Batman and Robin I’m of two minds on. While I like that they’re both quite colorful, I wish the bright blue on Batman wasn’t so blue. He’s not looked this bright since the Jim Aparo days over thirty years ago. Love blue on Batman, but this is a touch much for my exact tastes. And I don’t love the haircut Jiménez gave Robin. While I’m also not a big fan of the red/black look that’s been assigned to Tim for years (I never thought those colors spoke to Tim, they’d work better for Jason), I do like the design of this new suit. Less so for the “R” insignia, but the blacks on the shoulders and armpit are pretty neat. Also the red bo staff is a cool fresh touch. It’s also cool that both he and Batman now have matching belt designs for once.

I thoroughly enjoyed Batman #2. It’s my favorite characters at their best, with a cliffhanger that’s almost traditional every now and then, leaving me excited to see what happens next. It’s a pretty bog standard issue of Batman, but done with style and flair, while being new reader friendly. Fraction, Jiménez and crew are two for two as far as this fan is concerned.

Batman #2 (2025)Final ThoughtsI thoroughly enjoyed Batman #2. It's my favorite characters at their best, with a cliffhanger that's almost traditional every now and then, leaving me excited to see what happens next.4Final ScoreThe post Comic Book Review: Batman #2 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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The first episode of our Patreon-exclusive podcast Beyond the Gates of Gotham is live on The Batman Universe’s Patreon page. Support TBU at the $5 level and above to get access to this and more. This week’s titles include:

Main Book In Beyond The Gates Of Gotham Episode 1

Absolute Superman #12

Titles Covered From Across The Multiverse

Absolute Green Lantern #7
Absolute Evil #1
Justice League: The Omega Act Special #1
JSA #12
DC’s Zatannic Panic #1
Adventures of Superman: The Book of El #2
Cheetah and Cheshire Rob the Justice League #3

The post Beyond The Gates Of Gotham Episode 1 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Steph and Theo are back with Season 17 Episode 18 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast is live on all of your favorite platforms. After some news Steph and Theo review Batman #2 as well as Detective Comics #1101. What are their thoughts on the issue? Has it changed since their spoiler-free review? They also review Batman and Robin #25, which sees the debut of the Quiet Man. How do they feel about this character, especially with the existence of Hush? Listen in and find out. After that, they have fun with a lot of books in Greater Gotham.

Books Covered In Season 17 Episode 18Batman #2
Detective Comics #1101

Greater Gotham TitlesJustice League Unlimited #11
Immortal Legend Batman #2
Catwoman #79
Harley Quinn #54
DC vs. Vampires: World War V #12
Absolute Evil #1
Batgirl #12
Birds of Prey #26
Gotham Academy: First Year #1

The post TBU Comic Podcast: Season 17 Episode 18 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Batgirl #12, Batgirl and her allies travel to Samara, to meet with Nyssa Al Ghul in talks of joining her crusade against the Unburied!Batgirl #12 main cover by David Talaski (DC Comics)

BATGIRL #12
Written by TATE BROMBAL
Art by TAKESHI MIYAZAWA
Main Cover: DAVID TALASKI
Variant Cover: RIAN GONZALES
Page Count: 32 pages
Release Date: 10/1/25

This review contains spoilers

Batgirl #12 begins as Cassandra Cain, Tenji Turner and Jaya Jayesh travel the globe to hold court with Nyssa Al Ghul, now the leader of the League of Shadows. The journey takes time, resulting in the occasional battle with assassins sent to stop them. Over time, Cass trains Tenji to improve his fighting skills, while Jaya trains both of them in the art of healing. And in the evening, Cassandra rarely answers Oracle and Stephanie Brown’s radio signals for her to come home, and suffers from old nightmares of her first kill.

Eventually the three reach Samsara, a Himalayan haven for lost souls and a paradise for those who want to live in peace. Cass encounters Aruna Shende, a shapeshifter whom she encountered with Batman way back in Batgirl Annual #1 (2000). As Aruna explains how she arrived to improve her skills and techniques, Nyssa appears and gives her pitch for her and Batgirl to join forces. Her plan is to steal and destroy the Unburied’s poppy garden, robbing them of their power. Cass agrees but Tenji is uninterested in teaming up with villains.

Just then, Chodak the Unbowed escapes the clutches of the League’s capture. He attacks and injures Nyssa, but Batgirl – sword in hand – takes him down immediately, swearing that she’ll defeat the Unburied once and for all as Batgirl #12 comes to an end.

Siblings just having a little fun… fighting. (DC Comics)

Analysis

The three part Dragon Ranch arc is behind us, and we’re all the better for it. After three months of irritating melodrama, we’re back to a forward moving plot and decent character work with our main girl. Batgirl #12 isn’t brilliant by any means, but it’s decently enjoyable on its own merits and a definite step above what we’ve been given in this series over the summer.

Starting with the negatives, Batgirl #12 is a textbook example of telling over showing. The first several pages are Cassandra’s recorded mission logs with scant scenes of what’s been happening for…what really is an undetermined amount of time. Have they been traveling for weeks? days? A month? It’s been long enough that Babs and Steph are worried about her, but we’re just not told how long this has been. Later we’re taken to Samara, a haven which serves as a heavenly spiritual oasis for needy souls. A typical action/anime story trope, soon to be destroyed any issue now – but whatever. Just before we get into what Cassandra might think of such a place (the implication briefly begins just before she asks about Nyssa), we are reintroduced to a character so deep cut even I had to stop and try to remember where she came from.

Aruna Shende isn’t simply from an old Batgirl annual from 25 years ago. She’s specifically from the Planet DC event that DC attempted to introduce new characters from across the globe. Aruna is Indian, and had encountered both Batgirl and Batman while they were investigating a kidnapping. To my knowledge she hadn’t been seen since, so I wish Brombal and Miyazaki would’ve given us an actual flashback page as opposed to a minimized editor’s note.

This brings me to a point I’m concerned about for this book. Tate Brombal’s very clearly a fan, and is reintroducing classic events and themes from Batgirl’s past adventures. But it’s done very quickly with little context surrounding it. For instance, Cassandra dreams of her first kill – which was foundational in the first two years of her last series. Might there have been a better way to illustrate what exactly she was dreaming about? I may be overthinking it, and the event is obvious, but taken in concert with bringing back Aruna and later referencing Cass under Deathstroke’s brainwashing (Slade isn’t even specifically mentioned, just that Cass was brainwashed in the pages of Robin and nearly killed Nyssa), I worry that this series might become too inside baseball for new fans. I mega-appreciate all the history and continuity, but I don’t want any of that to turn new fans off, especially when they’re being invoked to drive Cass’ character development.

But overall I liked Batgirl #12. I liked that we got Babs (in her now classic James Tynion era Oracle fit) and Stephanie worried about her, and Cassandra’s shutting them out speaks to how personally she’s been taking these adventures. Recall that in the first two issues, she was ready to go to Batman right away. The scene where she hangs up on Oracle after Babs says she’s returning to old habits is a solid one, speaking quite a bit on how she’s been changing, and maybe not for the better. I also, despite my nitpicks, liked the appearances of Aruna and Nyssa in this. We saw Nyssa earlier in the run, but her taking more of a headstrong role now that Shiva’s out of the picture worked well. I didn’t care too much for Tenji Turner being an impudent loudmouth, but there was enough self-awareness for that to be commented on by the other characters. I liked Nyssa’s line about the Dollar-Store Bronze Tiger calling the shots.

I am still eager for this Unburied arc to end, because it really isn’t compelling, but this was a good issue for Cass’ development and to take inventory on how she’s been dealing with all these revelations and adventures. The cover to Batgirl #12 has exactly nothing to do with the story, except that we are back on track for Cass being the star of the book.

Batgirl #12Final ThoughtsI am still eager for this Unburied arc to end, because it really isn't compelling, but Batgirl #12 was a good issue for Cass' development and to take inventory on how she's been dealing with all these revelations and adventures. The cover to the issue has exactly nothing to do with the story, except that we are back on track for Cass being the star of the book.3Final ScoreThe post Comic Book Review: Batgirl #12 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Gotham Academy: First Year #1, Olive Silverlock, new scholarship student at the prestigious Gotham Academy, navigates her new life among the rich kids and her secret terror of Batman and her mother.Gotham Academy: First Year #1 main cover by Karl Kerschl (DC Comics)

GOTHAM ACADEMY: FIRST YEAR #1
Writers: BRENDEN FLETCHER, KARL KERSCHL, and BECKY CLOONAN
Artist: MARCO FERRARI
Main Cover: KARL KERSCHL
Variant Covers: DUSTIN NGUYEN, SWEENEY BOO
Page Count: 40 pages
Release Date: 10/1/25

This review contains spoilers

September in Gotham Academy, Olive Silverlock, new scholarship student, hides under her bed as a new student enters. The student, Lucy Hunt, is surprised and a bit snooty about having to share a room with Olive (who is struggling with flashbacks to her violent summer), but is pleasant enough and willing to help Olive for her first day of class. Olive feels completely alone during orientation.

One month prior, in August, Bruce Wayne drops Olive off at Gotham Academy while he sorts out her situation after her mother went to Arkham. Professor Elle MacPherson greets Bruce at the gate, and Alfred tries to comfort the shell-shocked Olive. Professor MacPherson introduces Olive to Headmaster Hammer, and we flash back to the present where Olive’s sullen resentment proves a barrier between her and the other kids. Her older student guide, Annie, rejects her, but Olive tags along anyway, meeting Ducky and Pomeline Fritch, who unfortunately mock Olive’s sad vibe. Once again, we flash back to Olive finding her mother in the middle of a horrifying firestorm in their house, as Batman breaks in to help them. Unfortunately, Olive sees Batman as a monster.

After throwing away the shoes the older girls made fun of her for wearing, Olive trudges away alone, but a friendly and cute boy with a huge backpack picks them up and runs after her. He introduces himself as Kyle Mizoguchi, and quickly helps Olive feel better and more welcome. He offers his services as a guide instead of Annie, and Olive accepts. Kyle puts on a show for Olive, touring the athletic facilities and showing off his tennis skills. Back at her room, Lucy is happy to see Olive more cheerful, and Olive gets a visitor pass to Arkham to see her mother.

In flashback, we see that Batman saved Olive from her mother’s explosion by throwing her out the window attached to his belt and line. Present day, at Arkham, Olive meets Jonathan Crane, the Scarecrow (though she doesn’t know that) and former Gotham Academy professor. Though warned by the guard not to talk to visitors, as Gotham Academy: First Year #1 comes to an end, Crane gives Olive a bottle of pills to “help” with her fear.

Unexpected roommates… (DC Comics)

Analysis

It’s BACK! After Spring 2024’s “Mother’s Day” story by Karl Kerschl in the Batman: The Brave and the Bold anthology title, the whole Gotham Academy creative team reunites – Brendan Fletcher, Becky Cloonan, and Kerschl with Gotham Academy: First Year #1. They are joined for this prequel limited series (indicating that if this does well, there may be more Gotham Academy to come!) by new artist Marco Ferrari and colorist Eva De La Cruz, taking over for previous series artists Kerschl and Adam Archer. Though I’ll have to reread my beloved Gotham Academy trades, as I thought Olive’s Summer of Trouble where her mom went to Arkham was between her first and second years at the Academy, but it looks like, according to this first issue, it was actually before her first year.

Despite this confusion, it’s very delightful seeing Olive drawn out of her (honestly somewhat obnoxious) class-warfare sullenness and genuine grief and trauma by the sincere and really loveable Kyle Mizoguchi (last seen romancing Stephanie Brown in Cloonan’s title Batgirls). The mixing of a more detailed look at the clash between Olive’s mother “Calamity” and Batman and Olive slowly learning more about her new home is nicely done, and the creepy ending at Arkham with Scarecrow leaves a lot of tension about whether Olive’s first year will be ruined by Scarecrow’s fear toxin!

Of course, the elephant in the room is Maps, Kyle’s beloved younger sister who steals every scene she’s in of the first several series of Gotham Academy adventures. Thankfully, it appears that Maps and Olive will have their first meeting sometime in this series, leaving much to anticipate. The overall plot of the series is a bit murky, as the mystery about Olive and her mother were dealt with in the original series, thus that can’t be the main plotline for this run. The friction between Olive and the snooty girls, her blossoming romance with Kyle, and of course the dark hints of Scarecrow hopefully will form a delightful plotline that will carry these six issues to a memorable conclusion that will bring many new readers to this and the original series!

Original series artist Karl Kerschl’s main cover features Olive in a typical pose of looking back at the reader over her shoulder, highlighted in warm colors as Colton, Pomaline, Kyle, and Lucy wait for her at the gate colored in cool blues. Longtime Gotham Academy fan and contributor Dustin Nguyen’s cover is a lovely watercolor of Olive, Kyle, Lucy, Colton, and Pomeline lying in a circle on the grass. Sweeney Boo provides our final variant with Olive looking sadly out of the window while in class as bats fly past – a nicely evocative and symbolic piece!

Final Thoughts

The anticipation couldn’t be higher, and our original Gotham Academy creative team doesn’t let us down with Gotham Academy: First Year #1, along with their new artistic collaborators! Olive, Kyle, Pomeline, and more are back and having great adventures where the mundane mixes with the Batman!

Gotham Academy: First Year #1Final ThoughtsThe anticipation couldn’t be higher, and our original Gotham Academy creative team doesn’t let us down, along with their new artistic collaborators! Olive, Kyle, Pomeline, and more are back and having great adventures where the mundane mixes with the Batman!4Final ScoreThe post Review: Gotham Academy: First Year #1 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Birds of Prey #26, the Birds of Prey play a game…one that could end in their final moves!Birds of Prey #26 main cover by Annie Wu (DC Comics)

BIRDS OF PREY #26
Written by KELLY THOMPSON
Art by SAMI BASRI
Main Cover: ANNIE WU
Variant Covers: KYUYONG EOM, CHRISTIAN WARD, SERG ACUÑA
Page Count: 32 pages
Release Date: 10/1/25

This review contains spoilers

Birds of Prey #26 begins as Black Canary (Dinah Laurel Lance) and Batgirl (Cassandra Cain) heist their way into the Unreality building to install a piggyback for Oracle. After evading security, Dinah and Cass leave the building, and Dinah confesses she is nervous about the plan, with Cass concurring.

In Sewer BOP temp HQ, Oracle (Barbara “Babs” Gordon) goes over the plan again – to find out what Vivi, the developer of the VR suits the team tested last issue are up to with the Shadow Army. Babs wants the Birds to parachute into the VR finale of the game, but Cass insists that the enemy is searching for something in the Gotham Augmented Reality portion of the game.

The Birds go through the AR game in Gotham, solving riddles. Barda is extremely bored, and when she sees some Shadow Army members, she and Canary break off to fight them. They fare well against the gang, but one of the Army members casts a spell on nearby GCPD police, who fire on the Birds. Barda shields Dinah from the fire, taking several hits. The two teams of Birds reunite, and Cass tells the team she’s figured out the goal of Vivi’s game – to find the entrance to The Seam.

Analysis

The Shadow Army arc will be the final storyline for Birds of Prey, concluding with issue #28, and in Birds of Prey #26, the stakes are heightened for the team of Big Barda, Cassandra Cain, Sin/Maegara, Black Canary, and Oracle, who have united after their initial battle against the Shadow Army. While the augmented reality game element resembles fantasy ARGs more than the popular Pokémon Go, it provides artists the opportunity to showcase the heroines’ entertaining alter egos.

Those alter egos do prompt the question – how was the creepy ending of last issue resolved? Does the mind control of the technology fade away? Did Oracle figure out a way to prevent it? The transition sadly isn’t very smooth, leading to a sense of disconnect.

However, Thompson does make the heist opening, the briefing room scene, and the ARG scene each feel different and fun, giving each Bird personality and things to do, as any good Bird writer should. Current series regular artist Sami Basri and inker/penciller Vicente Cifuentes do a great job of showing off the Birds both as fighters and as characters with their acting, continuing to make this book a pleasure to read visually. Hopefully Basri is able to finish out this arc as main artist without too much need of fill in! The consistency of art has been a real strength of this book since I’ve started reviews.

How did the creepy ending of last issue resolve?

In Birds of Prey #26, the main cover by Annie Wu features the four field Birds and Inque, who is mentioned but not seen, posing around a car trunk, with Batgirl humorously depicted as a cute gremlin. KyuYong Eom’s variant presents a sexy and distressed maskless Batgirl and Black Canary in a digital style, while Christian Ward’s variant shows Barda, Batgirl, and Canary in full costume, with Canary using her cry towards the reader. Lastly, Serg Acuna’s variant captures all five main Birds joyfully leaping across city rooftops.
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Final Thoughts

As the finale to this run looms, the Birds navigate uncertainty and unreality (pun intended on so many levels) towards the final confrontation with the Shadow Army!

Birds of Prey #26Final ThoughtsAs the finale to this run looms, the Birds navigate uncertainty and unreality (pun intended on so many levels) towards the final confrontation with the Shadow Army!3Final ScoreThe post Review: Birds of Prey #26 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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After a brief message about having serious conversations with children and sharing a bit about my rocky start to the year, I review Batgirl #71-73 (2006). After the break, I review Batgirl vol. 6 #11 and Birds of Prey vol. 5 #25. Stella’s Dungeon of Smut and my literature recommendations also appear.

The post Batgirl to Oracle: Episode 264 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Immortal Legend Batman #2, an unexpected trip to a pirate base uncovers a Shadow Bruce was not expecting, especially when he doesn’t have access to his powers.Immortal Legend Batman #2 main cover by Dan Mora (DC Comics)

IMMORTAL LEGEND BATMAN #2
Written by KYLE HIGGINS and MAT GROOM
Art by ERICA D’URSO and DAN MORA
Main Cover: DAN MORA
Variant Covers: MICHAEL CHO, SERG ACUÑA
Page Count: 40 pages
Release Date: 9/24/25

Bruce’s solo mission to locate and eliminate the Shadows continue in Immortal Legend Batman #2. The story takes a somewhat different approach the issue #1. Whereas in the first issue, Batman goes directly at the Shadow beast disguised as Bruce Wayne, in Immortal Legend Batman #2, writers Kyle Higgins and Mat Groom sends Bruce on an undercover mission. In doing so, we’re introduced to this universe’s iteration of long-time Batman alias Matches Malone.

In explaining the need for this mission in this way, Higgins and Groom highlight something that wasn’t clear in the first issue of the series. Because the powers of Immortal Legend Batman, Nightwing, and Robin originate from the same place the Shadows come from, the beasts can sense when Bruce is near just as he can sense them. So for Immortal Legend Batman #2, Bruce becomes “(Matches) Malone”. This issue also debuts some other well-known figures from the world of Batman. First, there’s Alfred. However, this Alfred Pennyworth is a robot. Yet, Alfred still finds himself in the service of Bruce Wayne and his secret identity.

A backstory also introduces readers to Lady Shiva, who trains the young Bruce Wayne in fighting (in typical Shiva fashion). It’s unclear if Bruce hired her after picking up the mantle of Batman from Roger Elliot (Tommy Elliot’s father and the previous Immortal Legend Batman or if this was done before then. I would hope to come back to this a some point in future issues as it would help flesh out the Bruce Wayne of this universe more. Two issues in, this is the most we’ve learned of the hero’s secret identity.

Batman’s quest to find the Shadows in Immortal Legend Batman #2 places Malone on a freighter with other traveling through an area known as a haven for pirates. This is known to the ship’s captain, so when a pirate vessel accosts the freighter, the captain assures his passengers that the pirates only want credits (or money). Yet, as the pirates board the ship, their leader makes it known they want more than money. They want the ship. He not only kills the captain, but a member of his own crew before literally letting the “women and children go” (along with an elderly man).

This is not your typical pirate… (DC Comics)

Malone and the remaining passengers are taken along with the ship to the pirate’s base for a “job interview” the join the pirate gang. After dispatching of the goons, we experience the third debut in this new universe. The pirate leader reveals himself to be this universe’s version of Bane (The Bane of Man). He reveals knowing who Bruce was based on his fighting technique, which tells me Bane interacted with Shiva (or was her). But Bane also appears to be a Shadow because Bruce has no problem destroying Bane after the two fight.

It would be interesting to see how Higgins and Groom follows up with this connection that apparently exists between Bruce, Bane, and Shiva. Having the backstory just to prove that Bruce doesn’t give up doesn’t make much sense, even this early in the series. There’s a connection there that I can’t wait to read more about — unless there is none.

The art in Immortal Legend Batman #2 is truly impeccable. It looks like D’Urso penciled the backstory and the non-Batman pages. The faces appear eerily similar to her work on Inferno Girl Red (also written by Groom). Based on the cover work, Mora handled the Batman pages and the pages with Nightwing and Robin. Either way, the colors from Igor Monti (who also does the colors on Inferno Girl Red) really bring things together with the two artists. There’s enough change in the pages’ hue of the colors to distinguish between the backstories and the present. What is also apparent in that this trio of the artistic team work well together.

Before Immortal Legend Batman #2 ends, we finally get some pages highlighting the other members of the Immortal Legend Trio — Nightwing and Robin. They’re facing off with a Shadow beast. While the beast succeeds in injuring Robin, Nightwing destroys it. But as the story ends, they realize it’s time to get to the bottom of something they’ve been putting off… They need to figure out what’s going on with Batman.

Final Thoughts

Immortal Legend Batman #2 succeeds in two things. First, it fleshes out a little about who the universe’s Bruce Wayne is under the cowl (do we call it that). Second, and most important, it finally sets the stage for an encounter to occur between our trio of heroes. One would think it won’t all be roses. Either way, this reader is here for it.

Immortal Legend Batman #2Final ThoughtsImmortal Legend Batman #2 succeeds in two things. First, it fleshes out a little about who the universe's Bruce Wayne is under the cowl (do we call it that). Second, and most important, it finally sets the stage for an encounter to occur between our trio of heroes. One would think it won't all be roses. Either way, this reader is here for it.StoryArtColors4.4Final ScoreThe post An Unusual Trip Goes Awry In This Review Of Immortal Legend Batman #2 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Steph and Theo are back with Season 16 episode 18 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast. This episode we review Detective Comics #1089, the last issue of Ram V’s run. Who wins the final battle between Batman and the Orgham Queen (here’s a hint, it’s the hero)? Does Ram V end his run on better footing than when it began. Does he answer the many questions left to be answered. Listen in and find out our thoughts.

Books Covered In Season 16 Episode 18Detective Comics #1089

Greater Gotham TitlesBatman/Superman World’s Finest #31
Wonder Woman #13
Catwoman #68
Batman The Long Halloween The last Halloween #0 and #1
Multiversus Collision Detection #1
Joker – The World Batman Day Special Edition #1
Harley Quinn #43
Brave and The Bold #17
Outsiders #11
Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #130 and #131

The post TBU Comic Podcast: Season 16 Episode 18 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Greetings, Gothamites! In the Dark Knight in Prose: Episode 38, Layne and Professor Alan look at chapters “A Puzzle of 206 Pieces” and “Written in Blood.”

Happy reading!

(knock-knock) Housekeeping!

You can contact me via email at darkknightprose@gmail.com or BatmanBooksPodcast on Instagram. Guest co-host for this book is Professor Alan, who can be found on Twitter X under Relatively_Geek. Copyright-free music and sound effects found on YouTube.

The post Ep 38: Forensic Files of Batman – Part 7 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Detective Comics #1089, Batman and the Orghams fight their final battle, and it all ends in a song.###### This Review Contains Spoilers

Detective Comics #1089 main cover by Evan Cagle

Detective Comics #1089
Gotham Nocturne: Act III – Finale, Part 2Writer: Ram V
Artist: Guillem March
Colors: Luis Guerrero
Main Cover: Evan Cagle
Variant Covers: Guillem March, Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez, Sebastian Fiumara
Release Date: September 25, 2024

Detective Comics #1089 begins outside the Reality Engine chamber, Batman fights an army of Orgham foot soldiers as the azmer demon-possesed Orgham Queen rushes towards him. He fights her to a standstill, and then Arzen Orgham, resurrected by Talia, arrives with the mystery box which fells the Orgham soldiers and wipes the azmer demon from his mother’s body. Arzen tosses a sword to his mother and they duel, as Nightwing and Cassandra Cain Batgirl save innocents from the blaze. Jim Gordon takes the music from The Maestro, fights his way past gang members into the broadcasting building with surprise help from Renee Montoya Question, and gives Oracle access to the studio to play the Maestro’s music all over the city, freeing them from the azmer demons. Oracle also plays the footage of the Orghams killing a cop, helping destroy the people’s trust in their new rulers. We see people all over the city shining homemade batsignals into the sky as the snow falls.

Catwoman opens the reality engine from the inside, having snuck in disguised as a guard. There’s no way to stop the Orgham plan to make all of Gotham afraid using Scarecrow except by killing him, so Batman forces Crane to look at him, projecting fear of Batman into a city which has forgotten him.

Interlude for the backup, placed in the middle:

Luftpause
Writer: Dan Watters
Artist: Christopher Mitten
Colors: Triona Farrell

Freeze feels Gotham remembering Batman, recognizing the parallel between his own quest to save Nora and Batman’s quest to save Gotham. Two-Face feels the change in reality, and since Gotham is Batman’s city again, he decides to head to Bludhaven after flipping his coin. Ten Eyed Man runs around the blinded Shavod, dropping eyeballs everywhere, fearing the panopticon of a renewed Batman-patrolled Gotham. Azrael, nearly subdued by Orghams, hears Batman’s voice, and his sword ignites again as he fights free. All around the city, Gotham sings.

Resume the main story:

On the rooftops, Batman and Catwoman listen to the song. Batman tells Catwoman his interpretation of his journey, then leaps off into a Gotham still in flames, happy that he is Gotham’s night.

Analysis

Two years from its starting point, Gotham Nocturne is over. I am curious to see how this run is remembered. Whether it becomes a cult classic like City of Crime, little known but passionately loved by a few who reread or discover it. Or if it will be like Hush, perennially reprinted as a showcase of talent DC wants as a “face title.” Or if it will be completely forgotten, like James Robinson and Peter Tomasi’s runs on Detective Comics. Only time will tell, of course. For anyone who’s been listening to the Comic Podcast or reading these reviews, it will come as no surprise that I think it will be forgotten, collapsing under its own weight and plot incoherence. A shame, as Ram V does create “impeccable vibes” (the most common defense I see when talking about the run with other readers), and the art has been consistently excellent (even though I maintain that it should not take three artists to finish the main story on DC’s number 2 Batman book in a single issue).

Overall, aside from the vibes, Ram V manages to pay off most of the threads he set in motion over the past two years with Detective Comics #1089. The Orghams are at least defeated (though in very comic book fashion, though I am curious to see if any writer actually wants to use them again), the villains Batman has allied with find various new paths, and Batman takes his place fighting for his city once again.

However, the collapsing in incoherence does overwhelm this surface level structural conclusion. The shallow use of the Maestro as the plot device who defeats the azmer demons (who are even in this final issue displaying new and bizarre and completely inexplicable powers), the complete non-resolution of the Joker’s Daughter plotline (started by Catwoman for completely incomprehensible reasons at the last moment), and the complete handwave of how Selina got into the tiny Reality Engine to provide the big reveal of opening the door from the inside – it’s just more indications of effect over cause which plague this run from beginning to end. The strange boy accompanying Jim Gordon and the Earworm villain from Si Spurrier’s backups at the start of the run are completely forgotten and unresolved (even though Earworm could have been a more interesting solution to the azmer demons than the empty shell of The Maestro).

Ram V also fills this finale with plot points and visuals ripped straight from so many other Batman runs. The citizens of Gotham filling the sky with their own Batsignals immediately brought Batman Eternal and Batman Endgame/Superheavy to mind. Jonathan Crane being the key to a city-destroying threat by fear is more than a bit repetitive just three years after Fear State. Unlike Chip Zdarsky’s Batman #152, which beautifully referenced Tom King’s Beach arc of City of Bane, giving full weight to the previous story, Ram V’s re-used elements are either unconscious parallels (which editorial should have pointed out) or so quickly referenced that they have none of the weight they should.

A much more effective reference is having Batman scaring Crane as a vision of terror from Batman Begins. That plot point is also nicely setup – using the engine to erase Batman’s memory from Gotham, and him using it again to make Gotham fear him. Adding to this structural strength is the well done use of the repeated phrase “Look at me” – Batman’s first line in the issue, and repeated in the backup as his command to Crane is sent all over the city.

Guillem March provides beautiful work as usual, excelling in the disgusting alien contortions of the azmer demon possessed Orgham Queen, to Batman’s strength and power as he battles for his city. It’s nice to see how Ram V and Dan Watters structured the backup placement so the whole story feels complete instead of having a weird afterthought of a backup following the main story ending.

Backup Analysis

Using a two page repeating structure, Dan Watters returns for (likely) his final backup for Detective Comics (for now) to give four characters their final note in this gothic opera. Mr. Freeze, Two-Face, Ten-Eyed Man, and Azrael (the latter two featuring heavily in Watters’ Arkham City and Sword of Azrael miniseries) all react to Batman’s command being broadcast to Gotham in different ways. It’s a beautifully written little “rest” in the symphony, and like most of the backups for this run, is a strong complement for the main story.

Dan Watters sets up a plotline in his upcoming Nightwing run with Two-Face heading towards Bludhaven. I will be following Watters over to Nightwing as a regular reviewer, and I’m looking forward to it!

Our main cover artist, Evan Cagle (soon to join Ram V on his New Gods series) shows the Dark Knight Rising into a hole of light in the clouds, creating a Batsignal effect, a red rose on the right side rooftop reminding us that this was an opera. Partial interior artist Guillem March provides a two-part connecting cover showing Batman on one cover and the Orghams on the other, a nice nod to March’s fine work, but a naked cash grab expecting readers to buy two copies of the more expensive cardstock covers to get the single image.

The Hispanic Heritage month cover featuring Renee Montoya as The Question by master artist Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez and prominent DC inker Joe Prado is a nice choice given Renee’s place in this run. Lastly, Sebastian Fiumara’s 1 in 25 incentive variant shows Batman stalking up a frozen hill towards a city trapped in ice, a spidery bat-shadow behind him – very striking, and matches the Mr. Freeze portion of this arc, so that’s clever.

Let me know what you think on twitter @ibmmiller, or join the conversation in our Discord!

Final Thoughts

In Detective Comics #1089, Ram V, with an able assist from Dan Watters, sends his Gotham Nocturne into the air with a big Finale. Only time will tell how we remember this run – whether the strong vibes of the writing and art can overcome the myriad incoherencies of structure and conception.

Editor’s Note: You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by purchasing this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

Detective Comcis #1089Final ThoughtsRam V, with an able assist from Dan Watters, sends his Gotham Nocturne into the air with a big Finale. Only time will tell how we remember this run - whether the strong vibes of the writing and art can overcome the myriad incoherencies of structure and conception.Rating of the entire run... 2 stars.2.5Final ScoreThe post Review: Detective Comics #1089 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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The first look at Detective Comics #1090 includes cover art and interior pages from the new run by Tom Taylor and Mikel Janín.Today (September 26th), DC Comics provided a first look at Detective Comics #1090. This is the first issue of Tom Taylor and Mikel Janín’s run on the long-time DC Comics series and the start of the “Mercy of the Father” storyline. DC bills this new arc as a dark secret behind Batman’s origin.

From DC’s release:

Detective Comics #1090 reveals a mystery surrounding the origin of DC’s Caped Crusader and introduces a mysterious and terrifying new villain stalking the bloodstained streets of Gotham City. Long ago, the murders of Thomas and Martha Wayne changed Gotham forever. But there is something you never knew about the Dark Knight’s tragic origin—something that has been lying in wait to strike at Batman ever since that fateful night in Crime Alley. And now, all these years later, this ghost of Gotham’s past begins to reveal itself. The streets of Gotham will run red with blood until the World’s Greatest Detective solves one of his most earth-shattering cases yet.

Detective Comics #1090 features a main cover by series artist Janín, with variant covers by Dan Panosian, Bruno Redondo, Tony Harris, and Ashley Wood, plus an “All In” foil variant cover by Daniel Sampere. Check them out below along with some sample interior pages provided by DC Comics.

Detective Comics #1090 main cover by Mikel JaninDetective Comics #1090 variant cover by Daniel SampereDetective Comics #1090 variant cover by Bruno RedondoDetective Comics #1090 variant cover by Tony HarrisDetective Comics #1090 variant cover by Ashley WoodsPrev1of5NextDetective Comics #1090 hits the stands at comic shops everywhere and digitally on Wednesday October 23rd. As always, stay tuned here to The Batman Universe for all of your news and reviews in the world of the Dark Knight.

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In Batman ‘89: Echoes #4, all heck breaks loose at Arkham Asylum, and Bruce finally dons the Batsuit for the first time this miniseries. Batman ‘89: Echoes #4 main cover by Joe Quinones. Image: DC Comics

Title: Batman ‘89: Echoes #4
Writer: Sam Hamm
Artist: Joe Quinones
Colors: Leonardo Ito
Letters: Carlos M. Mangual
Main Cover: Joe Quinones
Variant Covers: Sebastian Fiumara & Jahnoy Lindsay
Release Date: September 11, 2024

Please Note: This comic book review may contain spoilers

Batman ‘89: Echoes #4 opens at Arkham Asylum, with a sedated “Robert Lowery” (Bruce Wayne) telling Rahim to get a message to Drake Winston. It’s the location of a Nepentholene capsule on his utility belt. When used, this drug prevents the human brain from forming new memories, or so readers are told from Alfred Pennyworth in a brief interlude back at the Batcave.

Pennyworth, who has been kept in the dark throughout all of this, confers with Drake, who reveals that the drug is intended for Bruce. Readers already know that it’s probably to counteract the effects of Dr. Crane’s fear gas while he investigates the mysterious death of Dr. Hugo Strange. Before Drake heads out to fulfill Bruce’s wishes, he tells Alfred that the whole Batman “business model” is flawed, that Batman needs a support team and can’t do it all alone.

Meanwhile, at Dr. Harleen Quinzell’s private practice, the rising star Dr. Q is performing therapy with Selina Kyle (who is donning her Catwoman mask). Kyle lets it slip that she’s upset at Barbara Gordon, who received a bunch of files at the end of the previous Batman ‘89 miniseries from Kyle. Since then, it seems that Gordon has been dodging Kyle’s calls, and Selina isn’t having any of it.

When Dr. Q reveals that she’s giving up her private practice, Selina erupts, threatening Harleen and demanding to be treated three times a week, regardless of Dr. Q’s TV schedule.

Elsewhere, the feds learn that the “Robert Lowery” they captured isn’t the Firefly, that it’s someone undercover who likely burned up the body in the blast in Batman ‘89: Echoes #1, then posed as Lowery. At Arkham, Crane cleans up all his files and records, as he gets word that the feds are on the way.

Harley Quinn shows up, decked out in a classic Harley-inspired costume, to interview “Robert Lowery” as part of her “persona therapy” schtick. Crane uses this to send in Mark Desmond (also known as “Blockbuster” in DC Comics) to break up the party. Artist Joe Quinones has some fun here, casting Desmond as Arnold Schwarzenegger. Desmond’s trigger, apparently, is clowns, so he goes ballistic on Quinn, “Lowery,” and Maynard (this universe’s Riddler that Quinones fan-casted as Martin Short).

Bruce and Maynard work together to take Desmond down long enough to escape with Dr. Q. Drake, meanwhile, rigs up an explosion that sends everyone into a frenzy and places Arkham in lockdown. It stalls the GCPD and the feds, who both arrive at the scene only to succumb to an attack by a fully realized Scarecrow.

Scarecrow’s costume reveal is imposing, haunting, and gothic. It’s almost all black, with straw jutting down from the top of his stovetop hat. It’s a close ringer for Scarecrow’s outfit in The Long Halloween, albeit bulkier.

Batman ‘89: Echoes #4 variant cover by Jahnoy Lindsay. Image: DC Comics

On the roof of Arkham Asylum, Maynard meets Drake, who is suited up in a suit that looks like a cross between Nightwing’s red garb and something that is slightly Batman Beyond-inspired. It’s a cool suit, only second-best to Bruce’s transformation into his classic Burton-era Batsuit.

The issue ends at Arkham, with Harley Quinn, Scarecrow, Robin(?), and Batman finally altogether in their costumes, ready to do battle once more.

Though Joe Quinones’ art is absolutely fantastic and such a joy to view with each turn of the page, this book has been and remains such a tedious read. There are layers upon layers of backstories, misdirections, subplots, secret motives, and more. It feels like 5 or 6 spy novels interwoven into one 6-issue miniseries, and at best, it’s a mind-boggling and dizzying read, especially with Batman ‘89: Echoes’ inconsistent release schedule.

Simply put, it’s maddening, overstuffed to the gills with everything from too much story, too many characters, and too many cuts between events both past and present. Catwoman makes her return in this issue, and because we haven’t seen much of her since the first miniseries, her motivations and characterization seem out of left field, completely unhinged, and out-of-character for the Burton-verse.

How Many Villains Are In This Book, Anyway?
Let’s count them:

Harley Quinn (Dr. Q)
Scarecrow (Dr. Crane)
Riddler (Maynard)
Firefly (the deceased Robert Lowery)
Blockbuster (Mark Desmond)
Barbara Gordon? (She’s an antagonist to Bruce Wayne)
Dr. Hugo Strange (deceased but alive in flashbacks)

Beyond the plot points and overstuffed exposition, we don’t get to see Bruce Wayne suit up as Batman until this issue. Again, for a book that sometimes takes three-to-four months between issue drops, that’s a long time for readers to wait for Batman to appear. Yes, there was a fake-out sequence in Batman ‘89: Echoes #1, but that doesn’t count. All in all, this book is beautiful but aggravating.

Batman ’89: Echoes #4 Comic Book ReviewFinal ThoughtsBatman ‘89: Echoes #4 is a beautifully drawn and colored book, but the story continues to bewilder, confuse, and disappoint. It’s beautiful but completely aggravating—overstuffed with too many characters, subplots, flashbacks, and secret motives.1.5Overall ScoreThe post Batman ’89: Echoes #4 Comic Book Review appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #31, the Justice League are under siege by the resurgence of Eclipso. Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #31 main cover by Dan Mora. Image: DC Comics

Title: Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #31 – Shadows Fall Part One
Writer: Mark Waid
Artist: Adrian Gutierrez
Colors: Tamra Bonvillain
Letters: Steve Wands
Main Cover: Dan Mora
Variant Covers: Ian Churchill, Edwin Galmon, Marco D’alfonso, Nicola Scott, Annette Kwok, Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez, Joe Prado & Alex Sinclair
Release Date: September 18, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers.

Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #31 opens on the Justice League satellite, some years back. Green Arrow is questioning Superman about how he knocked out Eterno, the Immortal Giant in one punch while Red Tornado is monitoring the eclipse. Once it’s a total eclipse, the Justice League admires its beauty. Superman is about to ask Green Lantern about the stars, when it’s revealed that Hal Jordan, Oliver Queen, and Dinah Lance (Black Canary) have been transformed.

Twenty-four hours earlier, the Justice League is working on constructing Solar City ahead of the eclipse with the help of Dr. Bruce Gordon, who has been cured of his Eclipso curse. The goal is to provide a city that runs on clean energy, one that can be a proof of concept to the rest of the world. While the super-powered heroes help with construction, Batman and Robin are on patrol, revealing in exposition everything readers need to know about this city, as well as Dr. Gordon’s currently Eclipso-free diagnosis. A line of dialogue notes that Eclipso is imprisoned in a black diamond, which is being held on the Justice League satellite.

Meanwhile, in the control center, Dr. Bruce Gordon is losing his cool after finding out that they’re only 92% effective. He considers Solar City an abject failure, rummaging through equipment from Dr. Light in search of Prometheum cell. Though not a cell, he finds something that explodes. Once more, Gordon is infected with Eclipso.

While this issue is definitely exposition-heavy, once we turn to Dr. Gordon, the art really adds a rhythm. Prior to the explosion, Eclipso is unfurled in a couple of panels. Tamra Bonvillain plays with two sides of color here, juxtaposing the darkness and coldness of the moon in Eclipso’s reveal against the fire and violent light of the explosion.

It’s a cool moment, and the issue quickly jumps back to the opening of the issue. Batman arrives to the Justice League satellite only to find members fighting each other, with roughly half bearing the face of Eclipso. It’s an all-out brawl, one where Red Tornado stands at the center.

Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #31 main cover by Ian Churchill. Image: DC Comics

As the beleaguered Leaguers (HA!) battle each other, Red Tornado makes it to the teleporter. Down in Solar City, Dr. Gordon is putting together some kind device, and a light quickly emits from Earth. Red Tornado flies through the teleporter, just as the satellite is enveloped in some kind of powerful blast.

Tornado, barely functioning, makes it to the doorstep of the Justice Society of America in Civic City. The original Flash carries Tornado in for aid.

While the story brings a classic villain back to the forefront in a promising epic that brings in both the Justice League and the Justice Society, the art in this issue lacks the stylistic punch that Dan Mora previously brought to this series. There are plenty of action shots, but each one focuses solely on one hero surrounded by a ray of color. These panels are layered one after the other, almost like a series of action shots from an anime.

While it’s pretty on its own, in a book populated with so many heroes, both the other characters and the backgrounds are removed from these panels. It’s as if the action is but a series of wall posters, with the comic-ness stripped from the action sequence of Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #31. It’s sort of the point, but it also prevents those glorious, grand-scale battle sequences that comic book fans crave.

The paneling itself is also functional, sticking closely to convention with half-page panels allowed to breathe in larger space. Unfortunately these larger panels are fixated on explosions and little else—no characters, no backgrounds (other than space), nothing. It’s a pretty firework, but as readers, we’re left feeling nothing.

And that’s the problem with this book. The setup and characterization by Mark Waid is up to its usual snuff, but the art feels weirdly focused on the wrong parts of the action, and what should be a pulse-pounding page-turner feels more like a safari of stationary shots.

Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #31 Comic Book ReviewFinal ThoughtsBatman / Superman: World’s Finest #31 lacks the dynamic punch of previous issues in the art department, but the writing effectively sets up a new arc with a classic villain—Eclipso.3Overall ScoreThe post Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #31 Comic Book Review appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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After briefly speaking about my time in NYC and at Baltimore Comic Con, I review Batgirl #60-62 from 2005. Following the break, I review Birds of Prey vol. 5 #13 and look at a “quickie.” Stella’s Dungeon of Smut, and my literature recommendations also appear.

The post Episode 250 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In episode 263 of The Batman Universe Podcast, hosts Scott and BJ return to wrap up their discussion on Batman: Caped Crusader. Just like their coverage of the first half of Batman: Caped Crusader season 1 in TBU episode 261, the discussion starts with a spoiler-free overview of the season as a whole.

After their overview, Scott and BJ move into spoiler territory, diving into the themes, plots, characterizations, and ideas behind each of the remaining 5 episodes. Topics range from a mutual love of lesser-known Bat-villains Onomatopoeia (voiced by Reid Scott) and Gentleman Ghost (Toby Stephens) to an examination of Harvey Dent’s transformation into Two-Face (both voiced by Diedrich Bader) and Batman’s (Hamish Linklater) softening into a more compassionate vigilante.

This episode also includes a discussion on that recent revelation that Penguin, who stars in his own MAX crime drama and was played expertly by Colin Farrell, will go by “Oz Cobb” and not “Oswald Cobblepot” in the Matt Reeves-helmed Bat-verse.

Batman: Caped Crusader Episodes Covered:* Episode #6: Night Ride * Episode #7: Moving Target * Episode #8: Nocturne * Episode #9: The Killer Inside Me * Episode #10: Savage Night

Question: Did You Enjoy Batman: Caped Crusader?Join our Discord, and share your thoughts on Batman: Caped Crusade. Prefer email? No problem. Drop us a line at TBU@TheBatmanUniverse.net. As always, if you like this episode, please rate, share, and subscribe on the streaming platform of your preference. Thank you, loyal Bat-fans!

Find past episodes of The Batman Universe Podcast right here. For more from your hosts, you can find Scott on Threads (@Writer_Scott) or at ScottWaldynWrites.com and BJ on Twitter (@BJShea33).

The post Ep. 263: Batman: Caped Crusader Episodes 6 – 10 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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DC Comics solicitations for December 2024 features the continuation of Justice League Unlimited and the debut of several new titles in The Batman Universe.DC Comics solicitations for December 2024 and beyond have been released by the publisher. Highlighting this month’s releases is the debut of Justice League Unlimited by Mark Waid. Also out in December is the beginning of several new titles such as the new Two-Face series from writer-artist Christian Ward.

Also in December, we see the beginning of Batman: Dark Patterns from writer Dan Watters and artist Hayden Sherman.

Check out the DC Comics solicits within the Batman Universe for December 2024 below, courtesy of DC comics. If you want to see the full solicits for the month of December 2024, you can find them at our sister site, The Comic Book Spot.

(Click images to enlarge)

Prev1of7NextJUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #2
Written by Mark Waid
Art and cover by Dan Mora
Variant covers by Simone Di Meo, Mike Deodato Jr., Ariel Colón, and Derrick Chew
1:25 variant cover by Dave Wilkins
1:50 variant cover by Lucas Meyer
RAISED UV foil variant cover by Fico Ossio
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/25/24
As the Justice League grapples with the ramiﬁcations of the Atom Project, a strange alert brings the team to the jungles of South America…and a horriﬁc discovery. Can the elite Justice League strike force save a village from total slaughter? Plus…the mystery of the Darkseid heir deepens, and dissension in the ranks forces Batman’s hand.

Prev1of7NextBATMAN #157
Written by Chip Zdarsky
Art by Jorge Jiménez and Tony S. Daniel
Cover by Jorge Jiménez
Variant covers by Tony Harris and Tony S. Daniel
DC Winter Wonderland variant by Chrissie Zullo
Foil variant cover by Jorge Jiménez ($6.99 US)
1:25 cover by Jerome Opeña
1:50 variant cover by Rafael Grassetti
$4.99 US | 40 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/4/24
With the Court of Owls’ plan revealed and the city in chaos, Batman must ﬁnd the strength to ﬁght a war on multiple fronts and save Gotham from disaster. The fates of Jim Gordon, the Riddler, and all of Gotham rest in the hands of the Dark Knight in a climactic issue so big it takes two superstar artists to bring it to life!

Prev1of4NextABSOLUTE BATMAN #3
Written by Scott Snyder
Art and cover by Nick Dragotta
Variant covers by Becky Cloonan and Gabriele Dell’Otto
1:25 variant cover by Riley Rossmo
1:50 variant cover by Stevan Subic
$4.99 US | 24 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/18/24
Batman and Alfred have formed a tentative alliance, but the Black Mask has some new friends too…and they’re coming to Gotham to wreak absolute havoc. Plus, discover the dark secret that will rock Bruce to his core and make him question everything…

Prev1of4NextDETECTIVE COMICS #1092
Written by Tom Taylor
Art and cover by Mikel Janín
Variant covers by Stevan Subic and Christopher Mitten
1:25 variant cover by Ashley Wood
$4.99 US | 40 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/25/24
The streets of Gotham run red with blood—blood that the mysterious villain known only as Asema has taken quite an interest in. Who is this scalpel-ﬁngered creature collecting the plasma of young men, and what is Asema’s connection to Bruce Wayne? Tom Taylor and Mikel Janín continue their exploration of the darkest corners of Gotham City!

Prev1of5NextNIGHTWING #121
Written by DAN WATTERS
Art and cover by DEXTER SOY
Variant covers by DAN PANOSIAN and GLEB MELNIKOV
DC Winter Wonderland variant by CHRISSIE ZULLO
1:25 variant cover by DEXTER SOY
$4.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/25/24
After tragedy strikes, Nightwing seeks to hold the gangs of Blüdhaven accountable. But alliances in this city may not be what they seem, and powered-up Spheric police officers hover overhead seeking to dispense their own brand of justice…

Prev1of4NextBATMAN AND ROBIN #16
Written by PHILLIP KENNEDY JOHNSON
Art by MIGUEL MENDONÇA
Cover by JAVI FERNÁNDEZ
Variant covers by SIMONE DI MEO and DAN PANOSIAN
1:25 variant cover by CARMINE DI GIANDOMENICO
$4.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/11/24
As the Dynamic Duo attempts to solve the mysteries of Memento’s recent attacks, Batman begins to fear that his bond with his son and partner is beginning to fracture. Is this simply teenage angst, or is Damian truly pulling away from his father? Meanwhile, Memento emerges from the shadows, and the stone-faced specter of atrocities past makes himself known in the Gotham underworld.

Prev1of4NextCHALLENGERS OF THE UNKNOWN #1
Written by CHRISTOPHER CANTWELL
Art by SEAN IZAAKSE
Cover by MIKE DEODATO JR.
Variant covers by TAURIN CLARKE and DANNY EARLS
Foil variant cover by GLEB MELNIKOV
Design variant cover by DAN MORA
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/18/24
Spinning out of Absolute Power and the DC All In Special, the terror of the Darkseid shockwave has cascaded across the DC Universe…tearing open the very fabric
of time and space itself! Only one band of super-scientists have the right stuff
to challenge the fate of a universe…enter: THE CHALLENGERS OF THE UKNOWN. Alongside the Justice League—where the Challengers run day-to-day operations for the massive Watchtower base in orbit above Earth—Ace Morgan, June Robbins, Prof Haley, Red Ryan, and Rocky Davis must team with Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and the rest of the League to seal the rifts that threaten the galaxy. But a mysterious foe from the Challengers’ past lurks in the shadows, and its connection to the godshock will put the DCU on borrowed time!

Prev1of3NextBATGIRL #2
Written by TATE BROMBAL
Art by TAKESHI MIYAZAWA
Cover by DAVID TALASKI
Variant cover by JORGE JIMÉNEZ
1:25 variant cover by SKYLAR PATRIDGE
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/4/24
With Lady Shiva gravely wounded and Batgirl refusing to join her mother’s cause, the two seek refuge in the unlikeliest of places while the mysterious Unburied continue to hunt them—just as their deadly leader ﬁnally emerges from the shadows. Lives are at stake, but it wouldn’t be a killer face-off without some casualties!

Prev1of5NextGOTHAM CITY SIRENS UNCOVERED #1
Written by ARIANNA TURTURRO
Art by GUILLEM MARCH
Cover by GUILLEM MARCH
Variant covers by HOMARE and EJIKURE
Foil variant cover by GUILLEM MARCH
1:25 variant cover by MARCIO TAKARA
1:50 variant cover by BAILIE ROSENLUND
ON SALE 12/25/24
A cover-gallery special celebrating the classy and criminal Gotham City ﬁxtures known as the Gotham City Sirens! Join Ivy, Harley, and Catwoman as they take a trip back down memory lane!

Prev1of6NextHARLEY QUINN #46
Written by ELLIOTT KALAN
Art by MINDY LEE
Cover by ELIZABETH TORQUE
Variant covers by DAVID NAKAYAMA and JORGE FORNÉS
DC Winter Wonderland variant by CHRISSIE ZULLO
Artist Spotlight variant cover by DAVID NAKAYAMA
1:25 variant cover by A.L. KAPLAN
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/25/24
Laddies and Gentlegirls, are your engines burning for violence, malfeasance, and mayhammery? Look no further than this issue of Harley Quinn (available for preorder right now)!
I, Imperator Harleyiosa, acting as the agent of the Council of Aggrieved Local Retailers of Throatcutter Hill, have placed an embargo on all internet purchases in our disgusting little corner of Gotham City henceforth. No more will convenient internet retailers ﬂood our streets with their express-mail trucks and ﬁll our recycling bins with empty cardboard boxes! Embargoed! Watch out, ’cause I got some serious road rage I can’t wait to unleash! Set wheel in here, and I’m gonna blow up your truck!

ScreenshotPrev1of5NextPOISON IVY #28
Written by G. WILLOW WILSON
Art by MARCIO TAKARA
Cover by JESSICA FONG
Variant covers by JENNY FRISON and PABLO VILLALOBOS
Artist Spotlight variant cover by DAVID NAKAYAMA
1:25 variant cover by KNIGHT ZHANG
1:50 variant cover by JENNY FRISON
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/4/24
There is something stirring in the world—a primordial force that has been reawakened by the one and only Pamela Isley, and another that is very unhappy about the former’s return. Ivy’s ﬁght against the Order of the Green Knight sends her down a strange and horrifying path where she discovers that her actions have had a far wider-reaching impact than she ever dreamed.

Prev1of5NextCATWOMAN #71
Written by TORUNN GRØNBEKK
Art by MARIANNA IGNAZZI
Cover by SEBA FIUMARA
Variant covers by FRANK CHO and LEE BERMEJO
Artist Spotlight variant cover by DAVID NAKAYAMA
1:25 variant cover by NOOBOVICH
1:50 variant cover by FRANK CHO
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/18/24
What’s one Catwoman between good friends? Selina’s international hunt brings her to Stockholm in search of an old acquaintance who has become a crime lord there…Of course, she’s pretty sure he might be the one who’s put a price on her head, so she’s going to need to sneak in if she wants to get answers. Luckily for this cat, there’s a fancy-dress party that’s the perfect opportunity to slink in unnoticed.

Prev1of4NextBIRDS OF PREY #16
Written by KELLY THOMPSON
Art by SAMI BASRI
Cover by LEONARDO ROMERO
Variant covers by SERG ACUÑA and RIAN GONZALES
1:25 variant cover by TRAVIS MERCER
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/4/24
Did you ever wonder what happens when Small Bat gets big? And whatever will Big Barda have to say about it? Meanwhile, ﬁve Amazons’ lives are on the line and oh, the entire Birds of Prey ﬁeld team is caught in a twist no one could have anticipated.

Prev1of2NextBATMAN AND ROBIN: YEAR ONE #3
Written by MARK WAID and CHRIS SAMNEE
Art and cover by CHRIS SAMNEE
Variant cover by CARLOS D’ANDA
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US
ON SALE 12/18/24
The General makes his move, committing a series of bizarre crimes that turn Gotham’s underworld factions against one another and leaving little in the way of clues for Batman. And while things are bad for the Dark Knight, they’re even worse for Bruce Wayne and his teenage ward, Dick Grayson. But when Batman and Robin are once again called into action, their inability to get on the same page against the Maroni family and Two-Face could cost them both their lives!

Prev1of3NextBATMAN THE LONG HALLOWEEN: THE LAST HALLOWEEN #4
Written by JEPH LOEB
Art by CLIFF CHIANG
Cover by TIM SALE
Variant covers by CLIFF CHIANG and IAN CHURCHILL
$4.99 US | 32 pages | (all covers are card stock)
ON SALE 12/25/24
In 1996, writer Jeph Loeb and artist Tim Sale teamed up for Batman: The Long Halloween, an award-winning 13-chapter saga that spawned multiple sequels
and stands as the most inﬂuential Batman story of its era. Now Loeb returns to the world of The Long Halloween for its long-anticipated ﬁnal act—Batman The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween, an all-new 10-part mystery continuing the story from 2021’s Batman: The Long Halloween Special. In each issue, Loeb will be joined by one of the top artists in comics, in a beautiful and lovingly crafted tribute to Sale’s art and legacy.
With a life hanging precariously in the balance, the Boy Wonder decides to take matters into his own hands!

Prev1of2NextBATMAN: DARK PATTERNS #1
Written by DAN WATTERS
Art and cover by HAYDEN SHERMAN
Variant cover by STEVAN SUBIC
1:25 variant cover by HAYDEN SHERMAN
$4.99 | 32 pages | Variant $5.99 (card stock)
ON SALE 12/11/24
Set during the early years of Batman’s career, Batman: Dark Patterns delves into four mysterious cases as he attempts to cement his place as Gotham City’s protector while the city itself ﬁghts back against him. This is the Dark Knight Detective at his most stripped-down core, a man relying on his wits, his skills, and little else as he tackles some of the most twisted mysteries Gotham City and its protector have ever encountered.
Case 01: We Are Wounded
A series of sickeningly gruesome murders has sent shock waves through Gotham. Are these the random works of a serial killer, or is there something more sinister at play? Batman attempts to get to the bottom of the mystery before any more victims are claimed.

Prev1of3NextBATMAN: THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #20
Written by TY TEMPLETON, SIMONE DI MEO, DAVE WIELGOSZ,
and MICHAEL CONRAD
Art by TY TEMPLETON, SIMONE DI MEO, NIKOLA ČIŽMEŠIJA,
and CHRISTOPHER MITTEN
Cover by SIMONE DI MEO
Variant covers by AARON BARTLING and TULA LOTAY
$7.99 US | 64 pages | Prestige | (all covers are card stock)
ON SALE 12/25/24
Zatanna and Bat-Mite’s unexpected history is revealed in a time-hopping feature story from Ty Templeton! Plastic Man and Wonder Woman have inﬁltrated the Mirror House in search of the stolen Lasso of Truth, but will they ever make their way out? Animal Man’s unexpected team-up reaches its stunning conclusion! Batman awakens to ﬁnd himself with a tattoo…but why is it spreading? Find out in this thrilling ﬁnal issue!

Prev1of4NextTWO-FACE #1
Written by CHRISTIAN WARD
Art by FÁBIO VERAS
Cover by BALDEMAR RIVAS
Variant covers by CHRISTIAN WARD and CHRIS SAMNEE 1:25 variant cover by LEONARDO ROMERO
ON SALE 12/4/24
After years of internal conﬂict, both halves of Harvey Dent have reached an uneasy peace. Now Harvey will use his skills as an attorney to resolve the conﬂicts of Gotham’s weirdest and most dangerous criminals, starting with Victor Zsasz. When Zsasz is accused of murdering a fellow member of Gotham’s underworld contingent, who better to prove a criminal’s innocence than someone who’s been on both sides of the law?

Prev1of5NextBATMAN/SUPERMAN: WORLD’S FINEST #34
Written by MARK WAID
Art by FRAN GALÁN
Cover by DAN MORA
Variant covers by YANICK PAQUETTE and MIKE DEODATO JR.
Artist Spotlight variant cover by DAVID NAKAYAMA
1:25 variant cover by VASCO GEORGIEV
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/17/24
The Super-Pets have gone berserk, Metropolis and Gotham City stand on the verge of ruin, and the world’s only hope is…the Batgirl/Olsen team? It’s a comedy of terrors as—wait, is that a ﬂying monkey in a red cape…?

Prev1of3NextTITANS #18
Written by JOHN LAYMAN
Art by PETE WOODS
Cover by PETE WOODS
Variant covers by EDWIN GALMON and VASCO GEORGIEV
DC Winter Wonderland variant by CHRISSIE ZULLO
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/17/24
So much for the Titans being one big happy family! Raven is acting strangely, Cyborg is keeping secrets, and Arsenal is working everyone’s last nerve. It would be a really bad day for the Titans to be attacked, wouldn’t it?

Prev1of2NextTHE QUESTION: ALL ALONG THE WATCHTOWER #2
Written by ALEX SEGURA
Art and cover by CIAN TORMEY
Variant covers by JORGE FORNÉS and LUCIO PARRILLO
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/18/24
As the Justice League Watchtower reels from a grisly murder, the Question must face a dark reality: that the main suspect in the brutal crime could be someone close to her!
But as Renee digs into the unsavory mystery, she’s derailed by an unexpected—and powerful—new foe. But are the killing and surprise attack related? If so, who’s pulling the strings? The Question must navigate clues and double crosses to get to the truth…if she can survive that long.

Prev1of3NextBATMAN – SANTA CLAUS: SILENT KNIGHT RETURNS #2
Written by JEFF PARKER
Art by LUKAS KETNER and MICHELE BANDINI
Cover by BERNARD CHANG
Variant cover by STEPHEN BLISS
1:25 variant cover by SANFORD GREENE
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/4/24
To find the missing Justice League, Klaus, Zatanna, and Robin will brave the greatest terror of the holidays…a Christmas party.
You are cordially invited to a winter solstice gathering of the strange and oft-deadly magical community at the Georgetown mansion of Baron Winters, one guest limit. After a performance by sirens and banshees, we will gather in the Baron’s study, where noted demonologist Jason Blood will be giving a reading on the origins of the being called the Silent Knight!

Prev1of3NextBATMAN – SANTA CLAUS: SILENT KNIGHT RETURNS #3
Written by JEFF PARKER
Art by LUKAS KETNER and MICHELE BANDINI
Cover by BERNARD CHANG
Variant cover by REIKO MURAKAMI
1:25 variant cover by MARGUERITE SAUVAGE
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/11/24
We’re not going to sugarplum-coat it: the situation is dire. The Justice League
is trapped in the Hollow Kingdom, hunted by monsters and skeletons. Innocents everywhere are falling to the Silent Knight’s sword…including a hero everyone was counting on. Right when Klaus looks to have an edge, he goes missing! TBH, the only way we see this turning around is if Zatanna pulls something really good out of her hat…

Prev1of3NextBATMAN – SANTA CLAUS: SILENT KNIGHT RETURNS #4
Written by JEFF PARKER
Art by LUKAS KETNER and MICHELE BANDINI
Cover by BERNARD CHANG
Variant cover by RICCARDO FEDERICI
1:25 variant cover by MARC ASPINALL
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/18/24
Robin’s and Zatanna’s fortunes change as they accompany the most awesome rescue team in Christmas history: Mary Marvel! Robotman! Metamorpho! Etrigan the Demon! Following the greatest tracker of the north, Mrs. Claus. All our heroes come together in the Hollow Kingdom, where the Silent Knight has gathered his forces and enough power to take his final form. The epic showdown battle of the year comes in under the wire this December!

Prev1of3NextBATMAN – SANTA CLAUS: SILENT KNIGHT RETURNS #5
Written by JEFF PARKER
Art by LUKAS KETNER
Cover by BERNARD CHANG
Variant cover by PETE WOODS
1:25 variant cover by MICHELE BANDINI
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/25/24
At year’s end, every choice made will affect lives around the world. Seven heroes stand before the monstrous hordes of the Silent Knight. Seven heroes enter the mysterious castle hold of the Hollow Kingdom to face a test of true spirit and will. Ask yourself: Which team would you be on? What skill, power, or knowledge would make the difference against this existential threat? What does solstice mean, anyway? Did this series maybe just go a bit harder than you expected from your holiday special? Good. Whatever the yule brings, please have a happy New Year from the DC Universe!

Prev1of2NextDC VS. VAMPIRES: WORLD WAR V #5
Written by MATTHEW ROSENBERG and MATTHEW MANNING
Art by OTTO SCHMIDT and ACKY BRIGHT
Cover by OTTO SCHMIDT
Variant covers by JOSHUA HIXSON and KYLE HOTZ
$4.99 US | 40 pages | 5 of 12 | Variants $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/11/24
Green Arrow and his team successfully infiltrate the vampire strong-hold, but their victory is cut short when they discover the horrifying secret that’s long given vampires a lethal edge over the human resis-tance. The truth is greater and more terrible than anything they could have possibly imagined—and its shocking connection to the Speed Force is only just the beginning!

Prev1of6NextBATMAN: GARGOYLE OF GOTHAM #3
Written by RAFAEL GRAMPÁ
Art and cover by RAFAEL GRAMPÁ
Variant covers by JAMIE HEWLETT, FRANK QUITELY, and BILQUIS EVELY
1:25 wraparound variant cover by JAMIE HEWLETT
1:50 variant cover by PEDRO COBIACO
$6.99 US | 48 pages | 3 of 4 | (all covers are card stock)
ON SALE 12/18/24
“May the hour of the devil begin…”
The harrowing journey through the dark heart of Gotham reaches a fever pitch in this penultimate installment of Rafael Grampá’s visionary series! Batman’s investigation leads him into the deadly lair of Doctorgeist—where his presence is not only expected…but welcomed. Their savage fight for the soul of Gotham—and the soul of Bruce Wayne himself—will send shock waves through the city from which it might never recover. And elsewhere, the fugitive Crytoon makes a twisted acquaintance that finally gives him something to smile about…

Prev1of2NextBATMAN: FULL MOON #3
Written by RODNEY BARNES
Art and cover by STEVAN SUBIC
Variant cover by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA
$5.99 US | 32 pages | 3 of 4 | Variants $6.99 US (card stock) | Foil variant $7.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/11/24
Despite Zatanna’s warnings, nothing could’ve prepared Batman for the power he was truly up against under the light of the moon—far greater and wilder than any he’s ever encoun-tered before. And when that very same power doesn’t just burrow its way into Batman’s soul, but consumes him completely, the streets of Gotham will run red with the blood of beasts!

Prev1of3NextDC’S BATMAN SMELLS, ROBIN LAID AN EGG #1
Written by MARV WOLFMAN, ALEXIS QUASARANO, DREW MAXEY, JAMES REID, CALVIN KASULKE, RICK SANCHEZ, DORADO QUICK, and ZIPPORAH SMITH
Art by PAUL PELLETIER, ANDREW DRILON, M.L. SANAPO, MARIANNA IGNAZZI, MARCIAL TOLEDANO VARGAS, ANTHONY MARQUES, AARON CONLEY,
FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA, and more!
Cover by RILEY ROSSMO
Variant covers by LEE BERMEJO and SANTA FUNG
$9.99 US | 80 pages | All covers card stock
ON SALE 12/4/2024
Jingle bells, Batman smells, Robin laid an egg, the Batmobile lost a wheel… and you know the rest! Read these six merry tales about characters from the DCU set during the holiday season. Be enthralled by Dr. Midnight’s literally silent night, become captivated by a Deadman story written by Marv Wolfman, and ponder the question: in a world without the Joker’s torment, is it really a wonderful life? Probably not. DC’s Batman Smells, Robin Laid An Egg, is a heartwarming new holiday anthology coming as a gift to you this this holiday season!

LITTLE BATMAN MONTH ONE #2
Written by MORGAN EVANS
Art and cover by JON MIKEL
$4.99 US | 40 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 12/4/24
Since Bruce Wayne just had to go and get himself kidnapped by Scarecrow, Little Batman (a.k.a. Damian Wayne) finally has a real case to solve. But to crack the clues and save his dad, he’ll first have to defeat every kid’s worst nightmare: a babysitter. With fear toxin now back in Gotham, everyone’s getting a little scared…even Bruce Wayne, who fears that Little Batman might be falling right into Scarecrow’s trap.

THE BATMAN AND SCOOBY-DOO MYSTERIES #12
Written by J. TORRES
Art and cover by DARIO BRIZUELA
$2.99 US | 32 pages
ON SALE 12/4/24
There’s a Phantasm haunting the Gotham City Opera House! Batman and Mystery Inc. are determined to exorcise this spirit before someone gets seriously hurt, owner “Theatric” Al Perry needs it to happen before his retirement fund gets seriously hurt, and Dr. Leslie Thompkins doesn’t care about anything but acquiring the building to serve as a new neighborhood clinic so she can help residents who’ve been seriously hurt. Who will prevail?

ABSOLUTE POWER
Written by MARK WAID, JOSHUA WILLIAMSON, NICOLE MAINES, and CHIP ZDARSKY
Art by DAN MORA, MIKEL JANÍN, GLEB MELNIKOV, V. KEN MARION, JOHN TIMMS, and others
Cover by DAN MORA
$29.99 US | 184 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-020-9
ON SALE 2/4/2025
It’s a story years in the making…and the biggest DC Comics event of 2024! The final domino to fall in an epic scheme comes tumbling down, and the DC Universe will never be the same. As the founder of the Suicide Squad methodically targets each superhero dynasty one at a time, starting with Superman, a resistance is forming…and Batman is out for vengeance. It’s a shocking blitzkrieg across the universe from the Fortress of Solitude to Themyscira to Gamorra as the destinies of our heroes and the future of the DC Universe are forever altered. Don’t miss the stunning conclusion to the Absolute Power saga as justice is reborn from the ashes. Also included is a special oversize Ground Zero issue bringing Amanda Waller’s total dominance to the doorsteps of the world’s finest heroes…using the combined might of Failsafe, the Brainiac Queen, and the Suicide Squad to do it!

HARLEY QUINN’S BUD AND LOU: TROUBLE TIMES TWO
Written by BEN HED
Art and cover by BEN HED
$12.99 US | 144 pages | 5 1/2″ x 8″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-061-2
ON SALE 3/4/2025

When Harley’s hyenas, Bud and Lou, are framed for stealing the Lasso of Truth, they’re forced to team up with Super-Pets Ace and Jumpa. Hilarity ensues as the unlikely team sets off on an adventure that leads them from Oswald Cobblepot’s penguins to Mr. Freeze’s polar bears. Ben Hed brings his signature charm and humor to DC in this family-friendly graphic novel perfect for fans of his viral webcomic, Pixie and Brutus!

DCEASED: DC COMPACT COMICS EDITION
Written by TOM TAYLOR
Art by TREVOR HAIRSINE
$9.99 US | 216 pages | 5 1/2” x 8 1/2” | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-163-3
ON SALE 6/3/2025
The end is here!
Six hundred million people. That’s how many fall victim when a mysterious techno-organic virus is unleased on Earth. Six hundred million infected. Six hundred million turned into mindless, rampaging killers bent on death and destruction.
And that’s just the beginning.

BATWOMAN: ELEGY: DC COMPACT COMICS EDITION
Written by GREG RUCKA
Art by J.H. WILLIAMS III
$9.99 US | 240 pages | 5 1/2” x 8 1/2” | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-182-4
ON SALE 6/17/2025
A new villain has emerged in Gotham, masquerading as Alice, inspired by Alice in Wonderland. She sees herself as the hero in her own twisted fairytale with Gotham as her personal Wonderland. Kate Kane, also known as the Batwoman, is tasked with stopping Alice before she unleashes a deadly poison throughout the city.

DC FINEST: HARLEY QUINN: BIRTH OF THE MIRTH
Written by PAUL DINI, KELLEY PUCKETT, KARL KESEL, and others
Art by BRUCE TIMM, MIKE PAROBECK, TERRY DODSON, RACHEL DODSON, and others Cover by BRUCE TIMM
$39.99 US | 616 Pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-77950-048-3
ON SALE 2/18/25
The Maid of Mischief stars in her very own DC Finest collection featuring her very first comics appearances in the pages of The Batman Adventures #12 and The Batman Adven-tures: Mad Love #1, plus her follow-up wacky escapades from Batman: Harley Quinn #1, Harley Quinn #1-8, Action Comics #765, Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight #126, Azrael: Agent of the Bat #60, Batman #570 and #573-574, Batman: Shadow of the Bat #93, Detective Comics #737 and #740-741, Catwoman #82-84 and #89, and a story from Batman: Gotham Knights #14.

DC FINEST: TEEN TITANS: THE JUDAS CONTRACT
Written by MARV WOLFMAN, MIKE W. BARR, and others
Art by GEORGE PÉREZ, GIL KANE, and others
Cover by GEORGE PÉREZ
$39.99 US | 536 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-77950-025-4
ON SALE 2/4/25
Witness one of the greatest acts of betrayal in comics history in the The Judas Contract,
where one of the Teen Titans’ own turns on them. But from this tragedy, a new hero will arise. Enter Nightwing! Collecting stories from July 1983 to March 1984, this volume features
The New Teen Titans #33-40, The New Teen Titans Annual #2, Tales of the Teen Titans #41-47,
Tales of the Teen Titans Annual #3, The Vigilante #3, Batman and the Outsiders #5, Action Comics #546, and World’s Finest Comics #300.

BATMAN ’89: ECHOES
Written by SAM HAMM
Art and cover by JOE QUINONES
$17.99 US | 152 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-386-6
ON SALE 2/4/2025
Step back into the Gotham of Tim Burton’s seminal Batman movies! Batman ’89 brings in screen-writer Sam Hamm (Batman, Batman Returns) and artist Joe Quinones (Dial H for Hero) to pull on a number of threads left dangling by the prolific director. As D.A. Harvey Dent tries to keep the city together, he targets the one problem tearing it apart: Batman! Collects Batman ’89 #1-6.

BATMAN AND ROBIN
BY PETER J. TOMASI AND PATRICK GLEASON
BOOK TWO
Written by PETER J. TOMASI
Art by PATRICK GLEASON
Cover by PATRICK GLEASON
$39.99| 424 Pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-025-7
ON SALE 2/4/25
Good and evil. Triumph and tragedy. Death and rebirth. This is Batman and Robin as you’ve never seen them before. Collecting the acclaimed creative team’s modern-day classic, Batman and Robin by Peter J. Tomasi and Patrick Gleason redefines one of comics’ greatest partnerships for a new generation! Book Two collects Batman and Robin (vol. 2) #15-28 and Batman and Robin Annual #1-2.

BATMAN AND ROBIN VOL. 2
Written by JOSHUA WILLIAMSON
Art by SIMONE DI MEO, JUAN FERREYRA, and NIKOLA ČIŽMEŠIJA
Cover by SIMONE DI MEO
$19.99 US | 160 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-029-2
ON SALE 2/4/2025
Allied with the mysterious new Shush, Man-Bat will stop at nothing to unleash his Cult of the Bat and its thousands of poisoned bats on Gotham. Batman and Robin have enough on their plate when Flatline, Damian’s crush from the Lazarus Tournament, shows up with her own mysterious plans. Can the three unlikely allies stop Man-Bat and Shush in time? And what does Gotham City High School have to do with it?

BATMAN BY JAMES TYNION IV OMNIBUS VOL. 1
Written by JAMES TYNION IV, with others
Art by JORGE JIMÉNEZ, GUILLEM MARCH, and others
Cover by JORGE JIMÉNEZ
$125.00 | 1040 Pages | 7 1/16″ x 10 7/8″ | Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-063-6
ON SALE 3/4/25
From the bestselling and award-winning writer of Detective Comics, Justice League Dark, and Something is Killing the Children and celebrated artists Jorge Jiménez
and Guillem March comes the landmark saga that brought Gotham to its knees
and introduced the world to Punchline, Ghost-Maker, Clownhunter, and more.
One epic, interwoven across two series in two volumes, begins here. Collects Batman #86-105, Batman Annual #5, Batman 2021 Annual #1, Batman: The Joker War Zone #1, Batman: Secret Files #3, Batman: Pennyworth R.I.P. #1, Punchline #1, The Joker #1-4, and stories from Batman #85, Batman #107-111, Infinite Frontier #0, The Joker: 80th Anniversary 100-Page Super Spectacular #1, and The Joker #14, and a brand-new cover and introduction by Jiménez.

BATMAN VOL. 4 DARK PRISONS
Written by CHIP ZDARSKY and KELLY THOMPSON
Art by JORGE JIMÉNEZ, MICHELE BANDINI, MIGUEL MENDONÇA, and OTHERS
Cover by JORGE JIMÉNEZ
$39.99 US | 264 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Hardcover | ISBN: 9781799500582 |
ON SALE 3/4/2025
Following the mind-blowing revelations of “The Joker Year One,” Batman must engineer an escape from Zur’s prison…but what dark secret does Zur now hold that’s a game-changer for the Dark Knight and the entire DC Universe?! And what nefarious role does The Joker play in all this?

BATMAN VOL. 4: THE WAR OF JOKES AND RIDDLES (2025 EDITION)
Written by TOM KING
Art by MIKEL JANÍN, CLAY MANN, SETH MANN, HUGO PETRUS, JOHN LIVESAY,
and DANNY MIKI
Cover by TONY S. DANIEL, NEAL ADAMS, OLIVER COIPEL, and SANDU FLOREA
$17.99 US | 184 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″| Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-034-6
ON SALE 2/11/2025
The Joker and the Riddler would seemingly be natural allies, but early in the Dark Knight’s career, each man determined that he and he alone must be the one to kill the Bat…and either would sooner burn down Gotham than be beaten to the punchline. Critically acclaimed creative team Tom King and Mikel Janín add a new epic to the Dark Knight’s mythology. Collects Batman #25-32 and includes the can’t-miss, heartbreaking secret origin of Kite Man. Hell yeah.

BATMAN/SUPERMAN: WORLD’S FINEST VOL. 5:
SECRET ORIGINS
Written by MARK WAID, CHRISTOPHER CANTWELL, CULLEN BUNN, DENNIS CULVER, and STEPHANIE WILLIAMS
Art by DAN MORA, TRAVIS MOORE, JORGE FORNES, and others
Cover by DAN MORA
$24.99 US | 176 pages | Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-031-5
ON SALE 2/4/2025
Join the World’s Finest duo, Batman and Superman, as they adventure throughout the DC Universe, facing down threats of all shapes and sizes – assuming they can put their personal differences aside when tempers start to flair!
Collects Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #18-19, #25 and Batman/Superman:
World’s Finest 2024 Annual #1.

BATMAN KNIGHTFALL OMNIBUS VOL 2
Written by CHUCK DIXON, ALAN GRANT, DOUG MOENCH, DENNIS O’NEIL, and others Pencils by GRAHAM NOLAN, BRET BLEVINS, MIKE MANLEY, TOM GRUMMETT,
and others
Inks by SCOTT HANNA, MIKE MANLEY, VINCE GIARRANO, BOB SMITH, and others Cover by KELLEY JONES
$125.00 US | 976 pages | 7 1/4” x 10 7/8” | Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-046-9
ON SALE 2/18/2025
For the first time ever, the entire Knightquest saga is collected in one massive hardcover volume. Batman: Knightfall Omnibus Vol. 2: Knightquest includes the bestselling storylines “The Crusade” and “The Search” from Batman #501-508, Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight #59-61, Batman: Shadow of the Bat #19-28, Catwoman #6-7, Detective Comics #667-675, Justice League Task Force #5-6,
Robin #1-2, #7, and Showcase ’94 #7.

FOREVER EVIL OMNIBUS
Written by GEOFF JOHNS, PETER J. TOMASI, STERLING GATES, BRIAN BUCCELLATO, and others
Art by DAVID FINCH, SCOT EATON, PHILIP TAN, PATRICK ZIRCHER, and others Cover by IVAN REIS and JOE PRADO
$150.00 | 1280 Pages | 7 1/16″ x 10 7/8″ | Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-037-7
On sale 2/11/25
The Justice League has fallen. The Crime Syndicate, the League’s evil mirror image, has targeted and eliminated nearly every hero on Earth. Featuring Forever Evil #1-7, Forever Evil Aftermath: Batman vs. Bane #1, Forever Evil Director’s Cut #1, Forever Evil: A.R.G.U.S. #1-6, Forever Evil: Arkham War #1-6, Forever Evil: Rogues Rebellion #1-6, Justice League #24-29, Justice League of America #8-14, Nightwing #30, and Suicide Squad #24-30!

THE BOY WONDER
Written by JUNI BA
Art and cover by JUNI BA
$29.99 US | 184 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-032-2
ON SALE 2/11/2025
The young prince Damian Wayne was raised to be the heir to the fearsome League of Assassins. But everything changed when his father, the Batman, reclaimed him and brought him back to Gotham City. As Robin, Damian discovered he was merely one of several princes, preceded in the role by his brothers Nightwing, Red Hood, and Red Robin. Visionary writer/artist Juni Ba makes his mark on the timeless story of Batman and Robin, synthesizing the characters’ complex history into an accessible and heartrending tale!

RED HOOD: THE HILL
Written by SHAWN MARTINBROUGH
Art by SANFORD GREENE, TONY AKINS, and MORITAT
Cover by SANFORD GREENE
$16.99 US | 184 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-79950-039-1
ON SALE 2/18/2025
The Hill was once one of Gotham’s most dangerous suburbs, and its residents joined forces to keep themselves safe when the police—and even Batman—couldn’t. A team of vigilantes called the Watch has managed to keep the gentri-fying suburb safe from its latest outbreak of crime, but will even the addition of Jason Todd as the Red Hood be enough to protect the Hill? Collects Red Hood: The Hill #0-6, including the story’s beginnings from Red Hood: Outlaw #51-52.

The post December 2024 TBU Solicits appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Catwoman #68, as Catwoman’s forces battle the White Glove for the docks, Batman and Catwoman fight for her survival against Hush and Flamingo.Catwoman #68 main cover by David Nakayama

Catwoman #68
Writer: Tini Howard
Artist: Carmine Di Giandomenico
Colors: Veronica Gandini
Main Cover: David Nakayama
Variant Covers: Rachta Lin, Rose Besch, Nicola Scott, Marcio Takara, Tirso
Release Date: September 18, 2024

This review contains spoilers

Catwoman #68 begins as Catwoman’s allies battle the White Glove, Hush operates on the meteorite in Selina’s brain, and bullies her group to protect him from Batman. Meanwhile, he promises her face to Flamingo to eat. Eiko Hasigawa Catwoman agrees reluctantly, along with Dario Tomcat, as Batman watches the conflagration at the docks from above.

In her dreams, Selina sees Bast, the Egyptian cat goddess, who says she has come to love Catwoman, and offers Selina her life back if she can find her way through the desert.

Eiko Catwoman confronts Batman on the rooftops, and Batman vows to watch over (but not protect) Selina through Hush’s surgery.

In Selina’s dream, her cat Duchess leads her to Valmont, and they say goodbye to each other. She hears Batman’s voice, appearing as a bat-god of justice, as he radios through her tooth fillings. Batman tells her to wake up and strike as soon as Hush sews her skull back up while he takes care of Flamingo. Batman takes the unconscious Hush and holds off the police as Selina takes command of her forces in the fight. She forces the White Glove leader and survivors to retreat, then helps her supporter Hoops to the hospital. As she walks with Hoops, she repeats the goddess Bast’s words to the city of Gotham – she loves it, and cats don’t choose idly.

Analysis

I return for Catwoman #68, at the turn of the creative teams! After a blessed break from reviewing Tini Howard’s run, I’m coming back to review the book when Torunn Gronbekk’s tenure starts next month, and jumped in to cover this finale before that. For the most part Tini Howard seems to craft a finale where all of her heroes get some fun stuff to do (though Tomcat probably gets least to do, which given his awful costume design, is understandable, but it’s kind of a bummer given the rich setup he got in the first half of the run).

Though the way she writes Batman as being hypersensitive about stepping on Selina’s toes, as if she’s a toddler who will melt down if he helps her, is more than a bit annoying. It’s nice to see the passion Howard injects into Batman and Catwoman’s communications and scenes, even while Catwoman says goodbye to the most inexplicable love interest ever, Valmont.

Howard falls into some of the traps she set for herself in the first half of the run here, too. First, having Selina be constantly talked about as a huge powerful force, but then when she is actually on page, she fails as often as she succeeds. Her victory against the White Gloves is just forcing a retreat, she spends the first half of the book asleep going through a speed-run rehash of Ram V’s desert spirit quest for Batman in Detective Comics, and instead of ending the comic with an iconic character like Batman or Eiko Catwoman or even the new original character Dario, she walks off to the hospital with Hoops, who only showed up a year ago.

Not to mention, though Howard has laid off the “all men are evil or pathetic, all women help each other”, since the White Glove is led by a very evil woman, and Batman and Dario both appear as “approved” allies, Selina still chooses to say that “I’d do it for any woman” instead of “I’d do it for anyone who needed it.” All in all, the Tini Howard who started this run is still here in the end. I appreciate her classy post on her subtract saying farewell, not farming for trolls but just saying goodbye to fans and haters alike. But I have to say that I’m glad we’re turning the page.

Carmine Di Giandonmenico once again turns in fantastic work. His spikey lines and strong expressions really work in this epic finale issue. The work he does with the vision of Batman as a bat-god in Selina’s dream is very striking indeed. Veronica Gandini’s colors are rich, full of light and dark, and exciting – just as such an action, destruction, mysticism, and romance issue demands. It’s nice to see the run end on a high note artistically, for sure. Looking forward to what Gronbekk and artist Fabiana Mascolo give us next month!

David Nakayama finishes up his run as the main cover artist for this part of Tini Howard’s run with an image of Catwoman, in her squeaky-shiny purple suit, exiting through a window into a flaming Gotham, winking and holding a white cat, with a farewell postcard. Humorous and appealing, and appropriate for a final issue of a run. Rachta Lin’s variant shows Catwoman putting on a crown in an art gallery, aided by little burglar cats – again leaning into the humorous, in a style reminiscent of Peach Momoko or Rose Besch. Speaking of Besch, her variant for this issue shows an extremely cute pair of Catwoman, Harley Quinn, and a cat with a red bow, plus some post it note decorations.

As part of her Artist Spotlight Costume Variant series, Nicola Scott gives us a gorgeous array of Catwomans. Marcio Takara’s 1 in 25 incentive variant shows a smirking Catwoman leaping through the air following a black cat, their huge necklaces flowing into the orange sky behind them. Lastly, the 1 in 50 incentive variant by Tirso Cons shows a Selina lounging in shorts and tank top, reading with cats piled around her – a cute domestic portrait, an interesting contrast to the rest of the covers.

It will be quite interesting seeing how the new main cover artist, Sebastian Fiumara, coming off of a run of incentive variants for Detective Comics (and before that, some gorgeous variants for Robert Venditti’s truly excellent Hawkman series), handles the upcoming run by Torunn Gronbekk. In addition to Fiumara, DC will continue to provide 25 issue and 50 issue incentive cover schemes. We’ll be here next month to find out!

Let me know what you think on twitter @ibmmiller, or join the conversation in our Discord!

Final Thoughts

As Tini Howard wraps up her run with Catwoman #68, she manages to avoid some of the pitfalls that have plagued it since her first issue, but overall still turns in an incoherent, messy finale, albeit one with gorgeous art by Carmine Di Giandomenico.

Editor’s Note: You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by purchasing this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

Catwoman #68Final ThoughtsAs Tini Howard wraps up her run, she manages to avoid some of the pitfalls that have plagued it since her first issue, but overall still turns in an incoherent, messy finale, albeit one with gorgeous art by Carmine Di Giandomenico.2.5Final ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from our AffiliatesAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Comic Book Review: Catwoman #68 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Batman: Dark Patterns will be written by Dan Watters with art by Hayden Sherman and will focus on Batman’s early career.DC Comics announced today (September 20) a new Batman mini-series. Batman: Dark Patterns will be written by writer Dan Watters and will be drawn by artist Hayden Sherman. The new mini-series will focus on Batman’s early career as Gotham City’s vigilante protector as he attempts to solve four mysterious cases plaguing the city.

From the press release:

Batman: Dark Patterns will be told as a series of four self-contained, street level, evergreen Batman mysteries exploring the early days of Batman’s place within Gotham City and his healing presence within its streets.

The first case and story arc, “We Are Wounded,” involves a series of sickeningly gruesome murders sending shock waves through Gotham City. Are these the random works of a serial killer, or is there something more sinister at play? Across these first three issues of Batman: Dark Patterns, Batman attempts to get to the bottom of the mystery before any more victims are claimed.

“I love the strangeness of Batman. A man dressed as a huge, gothic bat, solving crimes in a hostile city of black magicians, mad scientists, and superstitious, cowardly criminals,” Watters said in the press release. “I’ve always wanted to write a series of mystery stories that would home in on that aspect of the character- a dweller in the shadows of Gotham’s towering, dilapidated spires. After watching The Batman, this desire was reaffirmed.”

DC states that Batman: Dark Patterns will be presented in the tradition of famous Batman titles such as Year One, The Long Halloween, and Dark Victory.

Batman: Dark Patterns #1 will have a main cover drawn by Hayden Sherman. Stevan Subic will draw a variant cover for the first issue. Check them out below along with a sample of interior art from artist Hayden Sherman and colorist Tríona Farrell.

Batman: Dark Patterns #1 main cover by Hayden ShermanBatman: Dark Patterns #1 variant cover by Stevan SubicPrev1of2NextBatman: Dark Patterns #1 will be available on comic book store shelves and digitally on Wednesday December 11, 2024. Stay tuned to The Batman Universe for all of your news and reviews in the world of the Dark Knight.

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The new Two-Face series will be written by writer-artist Christian Ward with art by Fábio Veras and will be released in December.Fans of Harvey Dent rejoice! DC Comics announced today (September 19) a new Two-Face series as a part of the publisher’s new All In initiative. The new limited series will be written by writer-artist Christian Ward and will be drawn by artist Fábio Veras. It should be noted that as the new series is a part of the All In initiative, it is not in the same universe as Ward’s Batman: City of Madness mini series.

From the press release:

After years of internal conflict, both halves of Harvey Dent have reached an uneasy peace. In DC’s new Two-Faceseries, Harvey uses his skills as an attorney to resolve the conflicts of Gotham’s weirdest and most dangerous criminals, starting with Victor Zsasz. When Zsasz is accused of murdering a fellow member of Gotham’s underworld contingent, who better to prove a criminal’s innocence than someone who’s been on both sides of the law?

“I couldn’t be more excited to be, or prouder, to be writing Two-Face’s very first solo series,” Ward stated in the press release. “Two-Face is without any hesitation not just my favourite Batman villain but my favourite character in all of Gotham, and I’m thrilled to be taking him, together with superstar artist in the making Fábio Veras and the legends that are colourist Ivan Plascencia and letterer Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou, to some wild places you might not be expecting.”

Two-Face #1 will have a main cover drawn by Baldemar Rivas. Variant covers will come from Christian Ward, Leonardo Romero, and Chris Samnee. Check them out below along with a sample of interior art from artist Fábio Veras and colorist Ivan Plascencia.

Two-Face #1 main cover by Baldemar RivasTwo-Face #1 variant cover by Christian WardTwo-Face #1 variant cover by Leonardo RomeroTwo-Face #1 variant cover by Chris SamneePrev1of4NextTwo-Face #1 will be available on comic book store shelves and digitally on Wednesday December 4, 2024. Stay tuned to The Batman Universe for all of your news and reviews in the world of the Dark Knight.

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In Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #4, Writer Andy Diggle, Artist Leandro Fernandez, and Colorist Matt Hollingsworth show no sign of slowing down in the latest installment of their globe-spanning 18th century epic.Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #4 cover by Leandro Fernandez & Dave McCaig. Image: DC Comics

Title: Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #4 Writer: Andy Diggle
Artist: Leandro Fernandez
Colorist: Matt Hollingsworth
Letterer: Simon Bowland
Cover: Leandro Fernandez & Dave McCaig
Variant Cover Artists: Martin Simmonds & Chris Weston
Release Date: September 11, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers.

The StoryIn Colorado, the sole survivor of a train crash stumbles out of the wreckage: arealist huckster Alan Scott. The woman he was seated with bleeds out, but not before entrusting him with the coveted emerald Ring of Jong Li. The League of Shadows assassins who derailed the train in Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #3, are after the ring as well, but when they attempt to retrieve it from Scott they are incinerated by the ring’s burst of green energy.

Back in Gotham Harbor, a vessel carrying a new shipment of contraband is ambushed by the Batman himself. After dispatching the crew, he leaves the captain with a final demand: “you smuggled assassins into my city. So if you ever want to take another breath, you’re going to tell me everything you know about the League of Shadows!”

Zipping all the way down to Antarctica, we catch up with professor Adam Strange who is coming to terms with the apocalyptic implications of what Diana of Themyscira told him last issue. The two of them board a ship for South America in the hopes that Bruce Wayne will be able to get them an audience with the US President, so they can share with him what they know.

Next, we get our first glimpse of Victorian Metropolis and a very analog Daily Planet. Turns out a corrupt business tycoon named Lex Luthor wants to buy the paper and hothead reporter Lois Lane isn’t happy about it. She’s convinced it’s part of a larger plot by Luthor, which involves buying up mines in rural areas such as Smallville, Kansas, and she wants out there to get to the bottom of it. It takes some convincing, but editor Perry White finally agrees and sends Lane along with freckle-faced photographer Jimmy Olsen to get to the bottom of it.

Finally, in what’s been named “Luthorville Minehead, Kansas,” Lex Luthor recruits a man named Victor Stone to assist him with select science experiments he’s conducting. When Stone asks for clarification on exactly what Luthor means, he guides him to a vaulted room inside the mine where a man is being electrocuted at high voltage.

Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #4 variant cover by Martin Simmonds. Image: DC Comics

AnalysisIf you’re worried about the creative team behind this book being able to maintain the high standard they’ve set for themselves, rest assured. All the things that are great about the first three issues are still great in Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #4. Namely, the propulsive globe-spanning narrative and the intriguing artistic representations of the 19th century DCU. Much like I praised the Holmesian tactility of Leandro Fernandez’s Batcave, I was thrilled to see the post-industrial Daily Planet full of papers and books and scrolls and cubbies.

Notably, Batman seems more and more like an afterthought as Diggle’s scope continues to zoom out to include more corners of the DC Universe. That doesn’t mean I don’t like the glimpses of him we get here. I like the way the officers aboard the contraband ship talk about Batman: “They say the bat can’t be killed! Say it’s a vengeful spirit, summoned up by the heathens for what we done to ‘em.” The rumors are appropriately cranked up for a time period when people were more prone to superstition.

Alan Scott’s deadly metamorphosis into Green Lantern is brutal and well handled even if it’s only afforded a handful of pages. The same is true of Lex Luthor and Victor Stone’s introduction, which leads me to my main problem. Andy Diggle’s ambitious scope causes the narrative to jump around so much, it prevents me from getting emotionally invested in any one character.

After four issues of setup, the book is at risk of developing a problem with narrative momentum. We’re now following 10 independent threads (not counting flashbacks) that have yet to meaningfully intersect:

The Kent’s discovery of a Kyrptonian meteorite in Kansas.
Selina Kyle and her home for destitute women.
The League of Shadows and their pursuit of the Ring of Jong Li.
Adam Strange and Wonder Woman leaving an Antarctic expedition to warn of an alien threat.
Queen Victoria conferring with John Constantine in the crypts of Balmoral Castle, Scotland, to bring about glory to the British empire.
Alan Scott coming into possession of the real Ring of Jong Li in Colorado.
A Martian awakening on Mars.
Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen convincing Perry White that they should investigate Lex Luthor.
Luthor’s mining operation and human experiments with Victor Stone.
Oh and don’t forget this is a Batman book, so he’s in the mix as well.

What this means is we end up getting little more than a handful of pages before jumping across the world to follow an entirely different storyline. And Andy Diggle’s penchant for dramatic revelation is such that we often switch scenes just as something incredibly interesting is about to happen. Now obviously this is an old storytelling technique, and it can work great, but it’s at risk of being overused when nearly every scene in the past four issues has ended that way.

Since we’re right at the 1/3rd point of this arc, we should be nearing the end of first act setup and entering into the period of more substantial narrative collision. Let’s just hope Diggle has a plan for all these spinning plates.

Unfortunately this issue is not a showcase for the strongest of Leandro Fernandez’s art either, but it has its moments of visceral efficacy in scenes like Batman’s assault on the contraband cargo ship in Gotham Harbor. On the flip side, he has an unfortunate tendency to draw certain characters with prominent front teeth, which leaves Lois looking like Shelly Duvall and Jimmy looking like a cross between Moe Howard and a post-transformation Peter Pettigrew.

Matt Hollingsworth ends up being the real MVP of the issue, giving every page a welcoming and satisfying balance of colors. He has a real talent for creating a dynamic page from color perspective, careful not to let any one pallet overly dominate a layout. A good example of this is the first page establishing Gotham Harbor: Full of cool blue fog, but with a single burst of hot red in the water’s reflection of a buoy.

Review: Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #4Final ThoughtsBatman: Gotham by Gaslight - The Kryptonian Age #4 is still very much in table-setting mode four issues in. As long as your patience isn’t starting to wear thin, there’s still plenty to recommend this book on.3.7Overall ScoreThe post Review: Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #4 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller), bring you The Batman Universe Comic Podcast: Season 16 Episode 15! Reviews: Batman #151 and Batman and Robin #12.

Greater Gotham covers Red Hood: The Hill #6, Birds of Prey #12, The Boy Wonder #4, Gotham City Sirens #1-2, Absolute Power: Task Force VII #4, Gotham by Gaslight: The Kryptonian Age #3, Death in the Family: Robin Lives #2, DC vs. Vampires: World War V #1, Outsiders #10, Wayne Family Adventures #124-125. What’s up with these Absolute Power tie-ins? Should Batman and Robin have gone to Dinosaur Island at all? These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at tbu@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on twitter, or on our Discord server!

Missed an episode? You can find this episode and all of our episodes wherever you find your favorite podcasts, on YouTube, and here at TheBatmanUniverse.net!

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In Batman and Robin #12, Batman squares off against Vengeance and Kobra while Robin, reflecting on Alfred’s murder, takes on the might of Bane.Batman and Robin #12 main cover by Simone Di Meo

Batman and Robin #12
Writer: Joshua Williamson
Artist & Colorist: Juan Ferrerya
Cover Artist: Simone Di Meo
Variant Cover Artists: Juan Ferrerya & Travis Mercer with Andrew Dalhouse, Simone Di Meo, Vasco Georgiev
Release Date: August 14, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers.

Batman and Robin #12 begins on Dinosaur Island, Robin (Damian Wayne) charges out of the underbrush astride his saurian steed, thinking only of Alfred and of dealing death to Alfred’s killer. Vengeance banters with Batman, warning him to leave her and her father alone. Robin attacks Bane, and they battle. Bane pummels Robin, but in between flashbacks to conversations with Alfred, Robin recovers and taunts Bane.

Vengeance and Batman pursue the antagonists, and Batman discovers Bane’s Venom lab. To Batman’s questioning, Vengeance admits Bane contracted with Kobra to create a new form of Venom, the effects of which did not fade. Instead, he and Vengeance succeeded only in creating a new form of Venom that exposed its users to the side effect of animalistic rage. Batman is furious, and just as Vengeance prepares her attack, she is neutralized by Maya.

Amidst tall trees, Bane stalks Robin. He falls for a ruse; Robin takes advantage with a well-timed kick to Bane’s knee. He advances on the vulnerable Bane, but stays his sword as Bane notes that he never had any real choice but to become a monster. Bane invites Robin to finish the deed, and Robin, filled with rage and grief over Alfred’s murder, grants Bane the mercy he withheld from Alfred.

Bane points out that they share a monstrous capacity, and Robin rejects the notion, expressing disgust, rage, and sadness at the fact that Bane never had anyone who showed him an alternate means of facing historical trauma. Batman and Maya burst into the clearing, and as they prepare to depart, Vengeance shoots Robin with a vial of Venom. Robin transforms into a monstrous version of himself and roars at Bane, “I AM GOING TO BREAK YOU!”

Batman and Robin #12 variant cover by Juan Ferreyra. Image: DC Comics

Although the first entry of this final arc in writer Joshua Williamson’s run left me pining for the cityscapes of Gotham, this is a dense, fascinating book that is packed with important moments. Readers have been waiting many months to see how Batman creatives will handle the death of Alfred, and it is spellbinding to see Robin’s rage and grief unfold in the pages of Batman and Robin. This is truly ‘The Third Book.’

I have been so impressed with Williamson’s work on this book, and Batman and Robin #12 is no exception. He has an incredibly deft touch, discerning with an almost uncanny feel when to say more and when to leave spaces for readers. The settings, narratives, and plot structures have been well-formed, logical, sequential, and above all simple. This is a book about Batman and Robin. The wisest choice any writer could make would be set the stage carefully but simply and leave it as a canvas on which The Dynamic Duo can display the full range of emotion, action, and perspective that makes them arguably the most important pair in any comic universe. Williamson has chosen exactly that path, but the skill and care with which he has rendered its contours is astonishing.

In Batman and Robin #12, the flashbacks do not distract; they artfully and obviously cast Robin’s choices with regard to Bane in sharp relief. The vastness of his rage and anger at Alfred’s senseless murder is boundless, and yet it is the photo-negative boundlessness of his love and respect for Alfred that stay Robin’s hand. Williamson clearly loves and respects Damian Wayne, and he shows this by portraying a mature, thoughtful Robin who, while still caught in the throes of adolescence, is nevertheless a fully-formed being capable of growth and agency. Williamson reminds us that Damian may be a youth, but he is not a child, and while he is as accountable to his past as we are, he not ruled by it – contrary to what the brilliant Bane asserts.

So too does Williamson skillfully render the ironic contrast with Bane’s progeny, the aptly named Vengeance. Batman’s child will not become vengeance, not only departing from the choice Vengeance seeks to force on him, but from his own father. Batman too had to learn that the vengeance he embodied in Years One and Two was insufficient. Gotham needed more from him, and Robin seems already to have internalized that message.

Perhaps it is because I rewatched Matt Reeves’ The Batman twice this summer and am somewhat obsessed with it, but I perceived echoes of the film in this book. The resonance is apparent not just in Robin’s comprehension of the limits of vengeance – a key theme in the 2022 film – but also in Bane’s remonstrance that he never had any choice but to become a monster, a perspective also explicitly adopted in the film by Riddler.

The 12 books in this series have been among the best 12 books in a comic series that I have read since I began seriously collecting in 2015. It’s been a pleasure and an honor to have been a reviewer on this book, and while I am sad that Williamson’s run is ending, I am also excited for the upcoming creative team of Philip Kennedy Johnson and Javier Fernandez. May we go from strength to strength!

Editor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with an advance copy of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by purchasing this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

Batman and Robin #12 Comic Book ReviewFinal ThoughtsBatman & Robin #12 is a remarkable book. It's full of heart, adventure, and a meditation on vengeance. StoryArtColors3.7Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Batman and Robin #12 Comic Book Review appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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DC Comics announced today (August 15th) a new comic book series which sees the return of a much-beloved character. Batman – Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns, written by Jeff Parker with art by Lukas Ketner, will be coming to comic book shops everywhere and digitally beginning in November. It will release every Wednesday in the five weeks leading up to Christmas.

In the upcoming series, horrors haunt the Christmas season as life-drained bodies litter the countryside, each marked with a strange symbol. The Justice League responds—but it’s a trap! The heroes are pulled from our world, but not before Batman helps Robin escape. Now Damian Wayne must seek out Zatanna and the one and only Santa Claus if there’s any hope of saving their friends and family.

“I was blown away at how well last year’s SILENT KNIGHT series was received, readers really responded to us going full tilt with Norse-mythos Santa in the DCU,” said Parker in the press release. “We followed the old tradition of telling ghost stories at Christmas. Then to be asked if I wanted to do another one AND have an extra issue? That was the Happy New Year.”

“It’s still unclear to me whether Batman will be speed-skating in the story. I may have been heavy-handed with the Xmas flavor in my audition sketches; it was meant to show how interested I was in doing THIS story specifically. I loved the first series, and Jeff was dangling an Etrigan-shaped carrot.”

Lukas Ketner

Batman – Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #1 will have a main cover by Bernard Chang and variant covers by Dan Mora, Kevin Wada, and Erica Henderson. Collectors can also kickstart the holidays with a special gift-wrapped (polybagged), evergreen-scented variant cover by Dan Hipp! Check them out below.

Batman – Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #1 by Bernard ChangBatman – Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #1 by Dan MoraBatman – Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #1 by Erica HendersonBatman – Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #1 by Kevin WadaPolybag covering for Batman – Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #1 by Kevin WadaPrev1of5NextDC Comics provided a preview of the first issue from artist Lukas Ketner. Take a look below.

Batman — Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #1 releases Wednesday, November 27 in comic books shops everywhere and digitally.

The post The Silent Knight Returns in Time for Christmas appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In Batman #151, Batman and Catwoman must team up in search of Amanda Waller’s Mother Box in this Absolute Power Tie-In. Batman 151 cover by Salvador Larroca & Matt Herms

Title: Batman #151 / Absolute Power Tie-in — “Into The Unknown”
Writer: Chip Zdarsky
Artists: Mike Hawthorne
Colors: Romulo Fajardo Jr.
Letters: Clayton Cowles
Cover: Salvador Larroca & Matt Herms
Variant Covers: Guillem March, Jill Thompson, James Harren & Stevan Subic
Release Date: August 7, 2024

Please Note: This comic book review may contain spoilers

Batman #151 opens in the midst of DC’s “Absolute Power” event that sees Amanda Waller hunt down superheroes with her Amazo-powered machines. Batman enters Selina Kyle’s hideaway and asks her to help him stop Waller. While she pours freshly brewed coffee, she talks about a cat she had as a kid who would hide in a drawer until the threat was over. When Batman says that he needs her help, she throws back that Batman doesn’t need anyone’s help. Bruce, however, does.

Artist Mike Hawthorne takes over pencil duties in this issue, giving Selina Kyle a Mae West-style mischievous glow. Bruce is more chiseled and distinguished than we’ve seen him lately, with a jaw that gives Jay Leno’s a run for its money. Batman’s suit is also a strange combination of the hyper tech-inspired look from video games like Injustice and notes of Batman’s comic book history, namely the purple gloves, which are a callback to his original appearance.

Later, Selina and Bruce go undercover as Mr. Blackwell and Ms. Tessworth, two private military operators. While Mr. Blackwell tries to rob the general on the Okinawa base, Ms. Tessworth sneaks around, looking for the key to Waller’s strangehold — a mother box!

Selina follows some of Waller’s Suicide Squad out into the jungle, but she’s caught by Black Alice. As Deadeye and Clock King (who is drawn to look like the Batman: The Animated Series Clock King and not William Tockman) move to engage, Batman intervenes. It looks like the fight is turning in the heroes’ favor when Bizarro shows up, powered by Brainiac tech.

Batman and Catwoman get away and find Waller’s boom tube. Before they leap in, Batman tells Selina that she can leave and go back underground, that she doesn’t need to risk her life. Against the backdrop of a bright, near-blinding boom tube, these two lone figures face each other. Batman grabs Catwoman’s shoulders, and it’s a moment of heart in an issue that serves as a functional point A to point B for the “Absolute Power” event.

Catwoman tells Batman she’s done crazier things, and the two take the leap of faith together. They find themselves in a tomb with Waller’s family members, and as Batman explores right outside the tomb, he realizes that they’re on Czarnia, the home planet of Lobo.

Gunsmith, a villain from way back in James Tynion IV’s run, shoots Batman, and the rest of the Suicide Squad arrive to apprehend both heroes.

The best word to describe this Batman #151 tie-in issue is “functional.” If you’re invested in the “Absolute Power” event, this is another piece of the puzzle meant to fill in the gap between issues, like all tie-ins. Beyond that, it serves no purpose, and readers who aren’t up to date on Amanda Waller’s takeover will be lost. Having Chip Zdarsky stay on as writer, however, helps keep the flow and voice consistent across the main Batman title and this interlude.

Batman 151 variant cover by Guillem March. Image: DC Comics

Title: “Absolute Power Plant!”
Writer: Tini Howard
Artists: Marianna Ignazzi
Colors: Giovanna Niro
Letters: Clayton Cowles

While Batman and the heroes are fighting Amanda Waller, Harley Quinn is keeping an eye on Gotham City. During her patrol, she finds out that Riddler has hijacked the nuclear power plant and is threatening to irradiate the city. Harley finds Riddler, and much to his dismay, solves his riddles, saving Gotham from a nuclear fallout.

The issue is pretty straightforward, but Tini Howard brings a bubbly energy that moves the story along. It feels like Harley, delivering some much-needed fun to a comic book whose main story was a bit of a bust. Even better, Marianna Ignazzi’s art paired with Giovanna Niro’s absolutely gorgeous colors is a match made in heaven. There’s a classic style at work here, one with realistic depictions set to vibrant colors reminiscent of 80s films (or even cascades of 70s Italian horror).

Batman #151 Comic Book ReviewFinal ThoughtsBatman #151 is a forgettable tie-in that can best be described as functional. The backup, featuring Harley Quinn, is a colorful and fun salve that soothes the burn of a wasted issue.2Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Batman #151 Comic Book Review appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this TBU Specials, Batman Universe Editor-in-Chief Theo has a quick chat with CRC Payne, writer of Batman: Wayne Family Adventures while attending San Diego Comic Con 2024. They discuss what readers can expect in Season 3 of the Webtoons series and how it differs from seasons 1 and 2. Take a look below.

Be sure to check out all the latest news and original content regarding The Batman Universe at http://thebatmanuniverse.net

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The post TBU at SDCC2024 – Chatting With CRC Payne appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Red Hood: The Hill #6*, the saga of the Hill ends or does it?Red Hood: The Hill #6Writer:* Shawn Martinbrough
Artist: Tony Akins
Color Artist: Matt Herms
Main Cover: Sanford Greene
Variant Covers: Shawn Martinbrough
Release Date:** July 31, 2024

This review contains spoilers

Red Hood: The Hill #6 — The Story

Red Hood: The Hill #6 begins after the disaster of the night in the previous issue, the attack on the Batmobile and the explosion and theft of Waynetech, Batman, Strike, and a perfectly fine Red Hood question their prisoners. Batman tells Strike that he has notified Denise Harlow and she is on her way to investigate the lead. Batman surmises that she will send a field team. Red Hood corrects him that she will go alone. Red Hood convinces Dana to back up Denise. Batman and Red Hood will take care of Omar and the Grand Imperial. Of course Batman lied he did not contact Denise he just wanted Strike to get to her sooner. He now has Oracle contact Denise. Red Hood goes to handle Omar.

Omar and Korlee argue over the phone and Batman contacts Korlee making it look like he is the Grand Imperial.

Denise is waylaid by Korlee Sr’s guards but she is soon helped by Strike. Strike later provides the muscle allowing Denise to interview Korlee Jr.

In the Hill, Red Hood confronts Omar and detonates the stolen weapons. He then tells Omar that the death of his daughter was orchestrated by Korlee Jr. Red Hood explains this before the police arrive to pick him up.

At the retirement compound of Korlee Sr. Denise and Strike have left and Korlee Jr arrives to kill his father and the survivors of the compound.

Back at Gotham News One, Denise learns of the massacre at the compound and she prepares to go on air to expose Korlee Jr.

Dana visits Captain Battle and her team at the hospital as they all recover. And in the jail Omar is approached by Tommy Maxx from the very beginning of this story. He suggests the two get together to go after Korlee Jr.

Everything then is treated like it is over? Korlee Jr may have been exposed but his is still free and he rejects Batman’s menacing tone. Omar is freed on bail and the Grand Imperial is still loose. All Red Hood says is that the bad guys are always out there. Jason has some stops to make before he leaves the Hill but he insists that he will. The only thing resolved appears to be Dana and Denise’s relationship.

Analysis

The art in Red Hood: The Hill #6 is alright. Unfortunately the characters keep looking different from issue to issue. For example Denise is hard to recognize in this issue it is only through the dialog and her actions that the reader can even know it is Denise Harlowe. Dana herself has gone through various changes throughout this story and this issue is no different. It helps that she mostly appears in her Strike costume.

Of course this conclusion leaves me with a huge question of what was the point? Nobody was really put in prison. The only exception could have been Omar who was given a sympathetic quality in that his daughter murder was actually set up by Korlee Jr. Now he is free like everyone else but his goal is to get revenge on Junior. The writer decided to bring back Tommy Maxx to lead into this pot point, again why?

The way it looks is that Korlee actually wins, his father is now dead so he is seemingly the crime lord of the Hill and he has the courage to stand up to Batman. My question remains: what is the point? This story has no conclusion.

One more question, this is a Red Hood book, why did we not see the battle alluded to in the previous issue? He only made a scant appearance in the beginning of that issue and Batman was told he was killed. Now he is miraculously back. Show Red Hood doing what he is good at.

Final Thoughts

A really pointless story and a pointless conclusion. Not a great showing of Red Hood. He needs Batman to come in to clean up the Hill but even he fails to do it. There is no change from the beginning except for alliances are different and some people are dead and most of the Watch was beat up.

Red Hood: The Hill #6Final ThoughtsA really pointless story and a pointless conclusion. Not a great showing of Red Hood. There is no change from the beginning except for alliances are different and some people are dead.StoryArtColors2.5Overall ScoreThe post Comic Book Review: Red Hood: The Hill #6 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In episode 260 of The Batman Universe Podcast, hosts Scott and BJ revisit the 1966 phenomenon that was Batman: The Movie, starring Adam West, Burt Ward, Burgess Meredith, Lee Meriwether, Frank Gorshin, Caesar Romero, and Alan Napier. The two have fun talking about their favorite moments, the strange, sometimes subversive humor, the only ending where Batman kinda, sorta loses, and more.

The two also talk about YET ANOTHER trailer for The Penguin starring Colin Farrell, Clancy Brown, and Cristin Milioti. Luckily, we have a release date of Thursday, September 19th. Watch the trailer here:

Lastly, Scott and BJ cover the Batman: Caped Crusader news that came out of a panel at San Diego Comic Con. In an exciting surprise, Minnie Driver is playing Oswalda Cobblepot, The Penguin, in the show, and she’s a cabaret-singer-turned-mob-boss. Early reviews are also in, and they are mostly positive.

Looking for BJ’s latest TBU Five Things? Check out TBU Five Things: Badass Batman Moments.

Question: Are You Excited for Batman: Caped Crusader?Join our Discord, and share your thoughts on Batman: Caped Crusader, which debuts on Thursday, August 1st, or any other topic in this Batman Universe Podcast episode. Prefer email? No problem. Drop us a line at TBU@TheBatmanUniverse.net. As always, if you like this episode, please rate, share, and subscribe on the streaming platform of your preference. Thank you, loyal Bat-fans!

Find past episodes of The Batman Universe Podcast right here. For more from your hosts, you can find Scott on Threads (@Writer_Scott) or at ScottWaldynWrites.com and BJ on Twitter (@BJShea33).

The post Episode 260: Batman: The Movie (1966) & SDCC ’24 Updates appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Greetings, Gothamites! (sorry for the loooong hiatus!) In The Dark Knight in Prose: episode 37, Layne and Professor Alan look at chapters “Two Much Evidence” and “Finger Furrows.”

Happy reading!

(knock-knock) Housekeeping!

The post Ep 37: Forensic Files of Batman – Part 6 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Steph (@SMozVO), Jaymee, Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller), bring you Season 16 Episode 13 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Reviews: Batman #150 and Batman and Robin #11.

Greater Gotham covers Poison Ivy #24, Birds of Prey #11, The Boy Wonder #3, Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #2, Batman 89: Echoes #3, Death in the Family – Robin Lives #1, Outsiders #9, Wayne Family Adventures chapters 119 and 120, “We’re Not Gonna Take It” and “Break Myself Into Pieces” What does a one shot Batman story look like in these serialized days? Who is king of Dinosaur Island? These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at tbu@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on twitter, or on our Discord server!

Missed an episode? You can find this episode and all of our episodes wherever you find your favorite podcasts, on YouTube, and here at TheBatmanUniverse.net!

The post The Batman Universe Comic Podcast Season 16, Episode 13 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Overview: In Batman ‘89: Echoes #3, Harleen Quinzell reveals the identity of Firefly to the public, and Bruce Wayne succumbs to Scarecrow’s fear toxin.

Batman ’89: Echoes #3 main cover by Joe Quinones

Title: Batman ‘89: Echoes #3
Writer: Sam Hamm
Artist: Joe Quinones
Colors: Leonardo Ito
Letters: Carlos M. Mangual
Main Cover: Joe Quinones
Variant Covers: W Scott Forbes & Paolo Rivera
Release Date: July 10, 2025

Please Note: This comic book review may contain spoilers

Batman ‘89: Echoes #3 opens at Arkham Asylum, where one of Dr. Strange’s “Monster Men” is recounting a tale from the war when he killed the enemies, then turned on his fellow soldiers in battle. He wound up at Arkham, taking a drug to subdue his memories and guilt. Dr. Jonathan Crane listens to the man’s story and notes that he would benefit from “persona therapy,” a new program that Crane is initiating.

Elsewhere in Arkham, the cameras are strangely taped off. Before security can investigate, a mysterious hand delivers beer and pizza. It’s likely belonging to one Dr. Harleen Quinzell, who has come to check security footage from a very specific date. Meanwhile, Bruce is escorted to the roof of Arkham by Rahim, one of his helpers inside, to meet with a visitor.

Drake Winston (Robin from the last Batman ‘89 miniseries) greets Bruce. Everything is going according to plan, and the charges are set where Bruce wanted them. Drake asks what he’s an accessory too, and finally, Bruce reveals what’s going on.

Bored and isolated from retiring as Batman (see the first Batman ‘89 series), Bruce was investigating the Firefly attacks in Central City. He realized that this Firefly had a mutual connection to one recently deceased Dr. Hugo Strange. Bruce found Firefly’s cabin, suited up as Batman, and went in to have a conversation.

Finally, in this third issue of Batman ‘89: Echoes, we get to see Bruce Wayne once more donning the cape and cowl. It’s a brief moment, but there’s something beautiful about seeing Joe Quinones draw the ‘89 Batsuit. It’s also paired with exposition of what inspired Bruce to set up this false identity and ruse in the first place, though over the course of the last two issues, readers have presumed what is explicitly stated here. At this point, we still don’t know who or what Hugo Strange means to 1989’s Bruce Wayne, and what we do get is a flashback that would have been a little more interesting at the start of Batman ‘89: Echoes #1. This late in the game, it isn’t salvaging this exposition-heavy story.

After Batman confronts Firefly, the villain, overwhelmed with fear, takes his own life. In searching Firefly’s cabin, he realizes that Robert Lowery, the name of Firefly, has been writing with Hugo Strange up until Strange’s death. It’s revealed that Strange had a “pupil” who was experimenting on inmates, which is why Lowery likely is suffering from such intense fear.

Drake hands Bruce a communicator, and Rahim comes back to escort “Mr. Lowery” back to his cell. Bruce runs into the inmate seen at the start of the issue, one who goes by “Edward Nigma.” Nigma gives Bruce a puzzle to solve, revealing that there were more “Monster Men” before, most of whom had been whittled down. The biggest and baddest of the bunch, a man by the name of Desmond (Blockbuster) is currently drugged up.

At GCPD, Captain Barbara Gordon enters the station to be greeted with a photo acquired by the media of the elusive Robert Lowery, the Firefly. It’s clearly a Bruce Wayne look-alike, which prompts Gordon to contact Alfred Pennyworth and let him know that their deal (which is to leave Bruce along so long as he retires from being Batman) is over. Before Gordon can head to Wayne Manor and act on her plan, she’s stopped by the FBI.

Undercover Bruce Wayne and Drake Winston (Robin) meet

At ACN, Harleen Quinzell’s producer, Chuck Lantz, promises that her show will be back on the air soon, but they have to hide the fact that she leaked the photo of Robert Lowery to the public. At Arkham Asylum, Dr. Crane confronts Bruce, telling him that his fear tests reveal that he’s overcome his phobia of bats. He’s suspicious, but Bruce tells Crane that he’s been practicing meditation.

Crane’s questioning goes deeper, noting that Bruce showed a fear to young mothers getting gunned down, which triggers a memory of Jack Napier murdering the Waynes. Crane then puts on a gas mask and blasts Bruce with fear toxin. Quinones gets to stretch his muscles here, showing a trippy blend of nightmarish visions and real-time questioning from Crane.

Scarecrow demands to know who sent Bruce, asking if it was the FBI or the CIA. Bruce, succumbing to the fear, admits that no one sent him, that Strange worked for him. He then tells Scarecrow that he’s Batman, though Crane is hard-pressed to believe it.

If this review has read like one long exposition, it’s because that’s what this series continues to be. We get a little momentum at the end of Batman ‘89: Echoes #3, as well as a cliffhanger teasing a showdown between Scarecrow and Bruce Wayne, but it’s too little to muster any sort of thrill or excitement.

The reality is, there are so many moving parts and characters to Batman ‘89: Echoes, that reading it can feel like a slog, making one feel like a casual viewer popping into this alternate Gotham City but never staying long enough to fully digest a story. It doesn’t help that this series releases issues every three months.

Review: Batman ’89: Echoes #3Final ThoughtsBatman ‘89: Echoes #3 has a little oomph at the end, but overall, this series continues its slow, plodding, exposition-heavy trek to nowhere.StoryArtColors2.7Overall ScoreSupport TBU By Purchasing From Our Affiliate SponsorsAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Batman ’89: Echoes #3 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In Batman & Robin #11, the Dynamic Duo head to Dinosaur Island, only to find Bane making quick work of Kobra cultists.Batman & Robin #11 main cover by Simone Di Meo

Title: Batman & Robin #11 – “Welcome to Dinosaur Island”
Writer: Joshua Williamson
Artist & Colorist: Juan Ferrerya
Cover Artist: Simone Di Meo
Variant Cover Artists: Juan Ferrerya & Travis Mercer, Andrew Dalhouse, Christian Ward
Release Date: July 10, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers.

On Dinosaur Island, Bane stalks a Tyrannosaurus Rex. It swallows him, and he bursts forth, Jonah-style, through its jaw. Elsewhere on the island, the Dynamic Duo are swooping in, Batman in the Batplane, Robin astride Goliath. A horde of pterosaurs hurtles towards them, and as Batman and Robin navigate through, they realize the saurians are fleeing rather than attacking.

The source of their fear soon becomes apparent. Maya shows herself and leads them to a clearing where the Kobra cult is trying to capture the dinosaurs in cages. Bane appears and summarily disposes of the cultists, but, as Batman points out to Maya, he does not kill any of them. Batman cautions that Bane is incredibly intelligent and needs to be watched before engaging. Robin, enraged at the sight of Bane and thinking only of Alfred, mounts a dinosaur and charges into the clearing to attack Bane. Batman and Maya race after him, only to find themselves amidst a herd of dinosaurs. As Batman prepares to defend, he is grabbed around the neck from behind. Vengeance hoists him with one arm and warns him to leave her father alone.

What is Bane up to on Dinosaur Island? (Credit: DC Comics)

Towards the end of the book, Batman states, “I miss Gotham,” and he is not alone. Perhaps writer Joshua Williamson is reassuring the audience that we will find ourselves back in Gotham soon enough, which, for this reader, would be welcome news. This is a straightforward opening sequence in the new arc, and Williamson wastes no time in setting the characters, the backdrop, a mystery (what is Bane doing?), and the ghost that initiates the movement (Maya). In that vein, it is remarkable how quickly Williamson advances the arc in a single book and is a sharp contrast to the longform currently being used by Ram V on Detective Comics (for example). Williamson has mostly opted for a light-hearted tone in his work on Batman and Robin, as even the plot Man-Bat pushed felt more “Scooby-Doo” style villainy as opposed to the dark, almost horror stylings we saw in James Tynion IV’s Joker War and Fear State.

The bleaker throughline relates back to the very important death of Alfred, and Robin’s rage and trauma at being made a witness to Alfred’s murder literally at Bane’s hands. It’s worth pointing out how important Batman and Robin must be to the editors, if they are choosing this book as an outlet for creatives to circle back around to Alfred’s death.

Although it is nice to see Nikola Čižmešija take a break from the book in favor of Juan Ferrerya, it’s unfortunate that artist Simone Di Meo, who has been doing incredible work recently, only has the cover here. Hopefully we will see more of him soon!

Review: Batman & Robin #11Final ThoughtsBy choosing to invoke the death of Alfred, the editors are confirming that this is the Third Book.StoryArtColors3.3Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Batman & Robin #11 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this preview of Batman ’89: Echoes #3, Gotham plunges into chaos — and Batman is missing in action! Dr. Quinzel’s therapy sessions go a bit awry after some… unconventional methods affect a few patients. Meanwhile, Dr. Crane’s plans within Arkham Asylum march forward. But can Barbara Gordon and Alfred find Bruce Wayne before it’s too late?!

Enjoy this preview of Batman ’89: Echoes #3, provided by DC Comics. And check back here at The Batman Universe later this week to see our review of the issue.

Batman ’89: Echoes #3
Written by: Sam Hamm
Art by: Joe Quinones Cover by: Joe Quinones
Variant covers by: W. Scott Forbes, Hayden Sherman
Page Count: 32 Release Date: 7/10/2024

Prev1of3NextEditor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with the preview images of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by pre-ordering this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

The post Preview: Batman ’89: Echoes #3 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this preview of Batman and Robin #11, A New story arc starts… ON DINOSAUR ISLAND! Bruce and Damian plan the perfect father and son getaway… to DINOSAUR ISLAND?! When the dynamic duo uncovers a deadly family secret, their investigation takes them on a fun-filled adventure to rescue one of Batman’s greatest enemies!

Enjoy this preview of Batman and Robin #11, provided by: DC Comics. And check back here at The Batman Universe later this week to see our review of the issue.

Batman And Robin #10 Written by: Joshua Williamson
Art by: Juan Ferreyra
Main Cover by: Simone Di Meo
Variant covers by: Juan Ferreyra, Travis Mercer, Christian Ward
Page Count: 32
Release Date: 7/10/2024

Prev1of4NextEditor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with the preview images of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by pre-ordering this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

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In Poison Ivy #24, Solomon Grundy uses the power of Slaughter Swamp to resurrect Poison Ivy.Poison Ivy #24 main cover by Jessica Fong

Writer: G. Willow Wilson
Artist: Haining
Colors: Arif Prianto
Letters: Hassan Otsamne-Elhaou
Cover: Jessica Fong
Variant Cover Artists: Frank Cho, Sabine Rich, Chris Bachalo, Nimit Malavia, W. Scott Forbes
Release Date: July 3, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers

The StoryPoison Ivy dies surrounded by her friends: Harley Quinn, Solomon Grundy, Killer Croc, Janet from HR, and Peter Undine. Quinn laments that it’s only the people who try to fix what’s broken that end up being punished while Grundy offers a chance at resurrection. The group is in Slaughter Swamp: the place where Grundy died and came back. Grundy submerges Ivy in the heart of the swamp, and she has another one of those psychedelic visions this run has become known for.

Ivy once again sees the tree of life, which tells her that she violated the boundary between green and grey by taking the power of the lamia for herself. She promises to stop messing with mushrooms before she is returned to the land of the living. During the big reunion, Janet from HR is so overcome with emotion that she admits that she slept with Ivy and kissed Harley. But good news for her: neither of them actually care.

She Lives! So here we are, after 24 months of teasing Ivy’s death as a result of the toxic labia spores, we finally get to see the narrative conclusion to this arc. The result is… disappointing. It’s yet another Deus Ex Machina: the undead zombie Solomon Grundy uses the regenerative swamp that cured him on Poison Ivy. Instead of coming back as a grey monosyllabic corpse, however, Ivy inexplicably returns good as new.

I have been all over the place with this run. Initially, what began as a Thelma & Louise-road story with a ticking clock element of Ivy’s eventual death was compelling. The pandemic-body horror elements provided a topical resonance, and Ivy’s internal conflict coupled with demons of her past and her awareness of an impending death all created great character depth. Unfortunately it seems like writer G. Willow Wilson’s planning only went so far as after an interlude into Ivy’s early life, we were presented with one of the most repetitious and drawn-out arcs in recent comics. The last three issues have all dealt with Ivy’s final death scene, all in the midst of a mystical resurrection swamp that served to undo everything we’d been building up to in the first place. I’m not saying I wanted or expected Ivy to die, but it would’ve been nice to see her brought back in anything other than the laziest way possible.

Solomon Grundy carries Ivy’s body into Slaughter Swamp. (Credit: DC Comics)

The End of the (non)Love Triangle Another way this arc wrapped up in a less-than-satisfying manner is with the Janet from HR, Harley, and Ivy love triangle. For months Wilson has been teasing an imminent blowup as Janet from HR has engaged in relations with both Harley and Ivy, unbeknownst to them. The couple is presumably still in something resembling a monogamous relationship, after all. That trail that we’ve been literally following for months ends here with a comical moment where Janet admits her indiscretions to virtually no reaction from the couple. Granted, Ivy did just return from the grave, so maybe they have more immediate concerns, but it’s still a huge slap in the face to anyone who has been following this storyline for months for the resolution to be, well, nothing. None of the characters have to confront their own actions or grow or learn anything. This entire storyline was pointless through and through.

The ArtHaining has not been listed as a guest artist since joining the run on issue 22, and it’s not hard to see why she was chosen as a replacement. The art is good. Haining deftly balances strong character work with action, and it bears more than a passing resemblance to Marcio Takara’s striking work, while not quite reaching the same highs. Arif Prianto’s colors are vivid and pleasant enough to, along with Haining, provide an animate visual contrast to the wearisome storytelling.

Review: Poison Ivy #24 Final ThoughtsThe two biggest narrative threads we’ve been following for months: Ivy’s struggle with her own mortality and her relationship with the impulsive and untrustworthy Quinn completely fizzle out.1.5Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Poison Ivy #24 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this episode of The Batman Universe Podcast, hosts Scott and BJ look back at Batman (1989) and its legacy, graphic novel adaptation, and subsequent Bat-mania that, arguably, made Batman more popular than ever before. Tune in as they talk about favorite film moments, the casting, that iconic Prince soundtrack, and more.

For more Batman (1989) goodness, check out some of our previous episodes, including an interview with Batman Movement Double Carl Newman and interview with Executive Producer Michael Uslan.
Never read the Batman (1989) graphic novel by Denny O’Neill and Jerry Ordway? Get your copy here.
Want to read an in-depth breakdown of Batman‘s opening sequence? Scott compiled a shot list and breaks down the themes, motifs, and ideas that make the opening sequence so iconic. Read Analyzing an Opening: Fear and Myth in Batman (1989).

Other Batman Topics Covered this EpisodeCheck out the latest trailer for The Penguin, which debuts in September. BJ and Scott couldn’t be more excited for this very mob-heavy show to drop.

Did you miss the Batman: Caped Crusader season 1 trailer? We’ve got you covered:

How did you celebrate the 35th anniversary of Batman? Tell us about it. Join our Discord, and share your feelings about Batman (1989) or any other Batman story in our TBU Bat-fans channel. Prefer email? No problem. Drop us a line at TBU@TheBatmanUniverse.net. As always, if you like this episode, please rate, share, and subscribe on the streaming platform of your preference.

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A new animated Batman show is approaching, and it has been a while since we had one to look forward to. I believe we haven’t had an animated Batman since Beware the Batman, and that came and went, not making much of an impact. Batman: Caped Crusader looks like it is going to hit, and the recent trailer looks great. Naturally, a new trailer means one thing: a new TBU Five Things list!

Fans can feel the classic, Noir-inspired animation style. Image credit: DC Comics & Amazon Prime Studios

#1: Animation StyleThe animation in Batman: Caped Crusader looks to be in the classic Bruce Timm style from Batman: The Animated Series fame, and it puts us viewers in a very comfortable space. The animation looks a little sleeker and more refined, which is funny because this show takes place in the 1940s. Credit to 2024 technology over 1992. The animation looks fantastic, so that is a great head start for any new show.

#2: Low-TechLIke I said, we got a 1940s Batman here and there, but not a lot of high-tech gadgets seen in the trailer. The bad guys have Tommy guns, there’s no computer in the Batcave, and I think we only see a grapple gun once in the trailer. It looks like the greatest technology in this world is the Batmobile. It’s so fantastical that one of the characters calls it a “hot rod.” It’s going to be fun to see Batman outwit people with his mind and his fists with less futuristic tech.

Batman looks closer to his classic, iconic roots. Image credit: DC Comics & Amazon Prime Studios

#3: Old-School LooksI am loving the old-school aesthetic here, and three characters personify that with looks right from the 1940s comic books. Batman has the big ears on the cowl, short gloves, and the old-school belt. Catwoman has the purple costume with the green cape, but there is one look that tops them. Fat Alfred. Yes, dear reader, our favorite butler was not always in the best of shape. In his earliest appearances, Al was a portly fellow, and that is what we get here. Personality wise, he looks like the same Alfred Pennyworth, at Batman’s side, helping his war on crime but now with a little more weight.

#4: “They’ll know I’m coming for them”The money shot of the trailer is this line from Batman. It’s a variation of a line we’ve heard many times, but it always gets me fired up to hear it. A character is telling Batman that there will be more monsters coming no matter how many he takes down. Batman says that he knows, and they’ll know he’s coming too. We only see a shadow of Batman saying it, and I wonder if that is for the trailer. However, the line is delivered perfectly by Hamish Linklater, who is our new Batman. He sounds great by the way. I don’t want to put him in the Kevin Conroy / Bruce Greenwood territory yet, but if he gets a full go as the Dark Knight, he has a chance to hang with the best of them.

A haunting, new Harley Quinn design. Image credit: DC Comics & Amazon Prime Studios

#5: The Voice CastIn addition to Linklater as Batman, we have a STACKED voice cast for this new show. It is not surprising considering we have Bruce Timm, Matt Reeves, and JJ Abrams as producers. The voice cast includes Christina Ricci as Catwoman, Jamie Chung as Harley Quinn, and Brave and Bold Batman Diedrich Bader as Harvey Dent. We also have Minnie Driver and Mckenna Grace in unknown roles. Stacked cast.

I am super excited for this show. I hope this becomes Batman’s version of My Adventures with Superman. I love that show and love that it has taken the classic characters that we love but has given them unique twists that keep them fresh.

Batman: Caped Crusader debuts August 1st on Amazon Prime. Let’s go!The post TBU Five Things: Batman: Caped Crusader appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In Batman #150, the man who learned Batman’s secret identity finds himself way over his head, and only Batman can save him. Batman #150 main cover by Jorge Jimenez

Title: Batman #150 — “Be Better”
Writer: Chip Zdarsky
Artists: Denys Cowan & Jorge Jimenez
Colors: Tomeu Morey
Letters: Clayton Cowles
Cover: Jorge Jimenez & Alejandro Sanchez
Variant Covers: Dustin Nguyen, Mattia de Julis, Tirso, Chris Samnee & Mat Lopes
Release Date: July 3, 2024

Please Note: This comic book review may contain spoilers

Batman #150 opens with a former cat burglar of Catwoman’s at a bar, seeking out advice from the bartender. The cat burglar’s name is Teddy, and he needs money. This Teddy is also the one who found one of Batman’s secret hideouts in Batman / Catwoman: The Gotham War: Scorched Earth #1.

Flannigan, the bartender, warns Teddy not to go through with his plan to make money off of this. He relays a story from a few nights ago, when Batman was found lying in the street outside of the bar. Some patrons decided to take off Batman’s mask, and they took a beating as a result.

As Teddy mulls this story over, another patron intervenes. This other man, named Percy, can connect Teddy with some of Gotham’s villains who will pay handsomely for information about this hideout. Percy makes a deal with Teddy, asking for a small cut, and the two toast to their new business venture.

Much of the art in this issue comes from Denys Cowan, a legendary illustrator who, among working on Batman titles over the years, also co-created Henri Ducard and founded Milestone Comics. As a longtime Batman fan, it’s great to see Cowan back on the title, layering in a street-level grit that, beyond setting the scene, adds a realism and grounded-ness not seen on the title in a while. The first few panels opening the issue hit heavy with this 70s/80s era pulp style that harkens back to a more classic Batman tone, despite Batman’s costume fitting the modern look.

The next day, Teddy awakens with a hangover. He was beating down the door of Kim, the mother of his son, Yuto. Kim let Teddy in and watched over him, making sure he didn’t kill himself in a drunken stupor. It’s during their conversation that Teddy learns that their son, Yuto, moved out. Teddy is heartbroken by this, and Kim stops the wannabe bigshot from self-pitying. She tells him that he always has “something big” in the works, but he never gets a real job, never gets rid of that “chip on his shoulder” that holds him back from actually achieving.

It’s a refreshingly adult conversation, one drenched in emotion from writer Chip Zdarsky and penciled beautifully by Cowan. The way Cowan subtly layers in complex emotions on characters’ faces, the way he uses eyes to reflect care and love buried beneath Kim’s cold, straightforward demeanor, is incredible. This opening feels so real, as if this Gotham City is populated by complex humans layered with contradicting emotions, ideas, and personalities.

Later, Percy takes Teddy to meet with Two-Face. Harvey Dent asks everyone to leave the room except for Teddy, and that’s when he tells Teddy that he already knows who Batman is. He assumes that Teddy knows Batman’s secret identity as well but not really well. Two-Face waxes on about how he knows the real man behind the mask, about how the “four of them” have fought. Two-Face realizes that if one took full control of the other, the beauty of their duality would be gone, and that a true Batman would be a relentless monster.

Two-Face pulls a gun on Teddy, but it’s Harvey threatening to kill Teddy. Two-Face’s personality steps in, telling Teddy to leave. He tells the wannabe bigshot that he’ll soon learn exactly what he’s dealing with. As Teddy and Percy leave, Teddy spots Batman perched on a rooftop across the street. Teddy freaks out, but Percy convinces him to stay calm. The two take their business elsewhere.

At the Iceberg Lounge, Teddy and Percy meet with Aiden and Addison Cobblepot. They make a deal together, and then the siblings leave to take care of an intruder — Batman. One of their bodyguards, an old colleague of Teddy’s by the name of Roger, warns Teddy and Percy that the Cobblepots intend to kill them. The logic checks out, but before Teddy can bail, there’s an explosion.

Teddy awakens in a hideout belonging to Roger and some other former henchmen of Catwoman’s. They used their burglary training to steal from their other former bosses and are now a team that could use Teddy’s information.

Later, Teddy is riding in a van with a bunch of them, and they’re going to hit a bank, using Teddy as a warning to Batman. They believe Batman won’t throw Teddy in prison because it would force him to make a deal. At the bank, as Belle, Cut-up, and the others run out, they’re greeted by Batman. One of their own has betrayed them for a reduced sentence. As the gang battles Batman, Teddy runs for it, but it’s no use.

Batman towers over him, and his cloak descends on the poor hoodlum.

Throughout this story, Batman’s body and build changes, morphing with the interpretation of whoever is seeing him. In some flashbacks, he’s crisp and cleanly drawn by Jorge Jimenez. In others, he’s a towering figure overwhelmed with muscles. In this last shot of Teddy at the scene of the crime, Batman’s entire face is masked, including his mouth. He’s a broad-shouldered phantom.

Teddy awakens in Yuto’s dorm room just as Yuto is returning home. Yuto is surprised, and at first, he thinks his dad is drunk. The two argue, with Teddy trying to defend himself by saying he was trying to put food on the table. Yuto, who is attending Gotham University for a business degree, tells his dad that he used to look up to him, that he even tried to work for a criminal once.

We see Yuto’s story working for the Scarecrow, learning how dispensable he was when Batman arrived. It was Batman who held out a hand to Yuto; it was Batman who saved him.

Yuto relays how Batman listened to him, then encouraged him to apply for a scholarship at Gotham University. Batman knew who he was and knew who his dad was. Yuto got the scholarship and heeded the advice of Batman, “Be better.”

The words echo as Teddy leaves his son’s dorm only to be greeted by Bruce Wayne. Teddy realizes that, with everyone knowing that he knows Batman’s identity, it’s dangerous in Gotham for him. Bruce agrees, but he’s here to help. He has a new place, job, and identity for Teddy in Metropolis. When enough time passes, Teddy can come back, and in that time, Yuto will be okay. All the two of them can hope for is that their children are the best parts of them.

Teddy leaves Gotham, looking out at the Batsignal and remembering Bruce’s parting words that when he returns, Batman will be there to help.

After all the action-packed battles with Zur-En-Arrh, the Daniel Captio surprise, and the non-stop battle across different dimensions of Gotham, Chip Zdarsky finally brings it home with Denys Cowan, Jorge Jimenez, and Tomeu Morey. This issue has so much heart and love to it. It’s a one-shot story that ranks among the best of them as a man gets in over his head and realizes that he’s been getting in his own way all these years.

“Be Better” is exactly the kind of story we have been missing from the pages of Batman for some time now. It’s the story that challenges us to be our best selves, with beautifully dramatic and emotional art by Cowan that feels so realistic and lifelike.

Teddy can’t resist making an easy buck. (Credit: DC Comics)

Title: “Brick-by-Brick”
Writer: Chip Zdarsky
Artists: Mike Hawthorne
Colors: Romulo Fajardo Jr.
Letters: Clayton Cowles

In the backup story, which is a direct tie-in to DC’s summer Absolute Power event, Batman tracks down Cyborg in order to get help fighting Amanda Waller’s army of Failsafe-empowered Amazo robots. It’s mostly expository captions that explain what’s happened to the world and how Waller has created a robot army to assume control. The heroes are on the run; Cyborg gets captured; and Batman needs to regroup with other Justice Leaguers.

All in all, it’s mostly an advertisement for Absolute Power #1, which is out in stores currently. As an addendum to Batman #150, this tacked-on story takes all the energy, love, and power from the main story. It takes those feel-good emotions and tosses them in a shredder, and with that said, it’s really not worth your time. Just read the main story, then close the book.

Review: Batman #150Final ThoughtsBatman #150 is a beautifully drawn, colored, and written story that encompasses the more compassionate side of Batman. It’s refreshing, though a bit undermined by a backup solely included to promote Absolute Power #1.4Overall ScoreSupport TBU By Purchasing From Our Affiliate SponsorsAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Batman #150 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this preview of Poison Ivy #24, “THE DEATH OF PAMELA ISLEY”, Dr. Jason Woodrue, the Floronic Man (a.k.a. Floro), has stacked the deck in his favor. Neither Ivy’s powers nor her allies are enough to put an end to Floro and his devilish plan to turn Ivy’s victims against her. As time, and her own supply of blood, runs out, one thing becomes apparent: to bring the outbreak of the parasitic fungi, Ophiocordyceps Lamia, to an end, Poison Ivy will have to kill both her own creator and herself.

Enjoy this preview of Poison Ivy #24, provided by: DC Comics. And check back here at The Batman Universe later this week to see our review of the issue.

Poison Ivy #24
Written by: G. Willow Wilson
Art by: Marcio Takara
Cover by: Jessica Fong
Variant covers by: David Nakayama, Frank Cho, Eliza Ivanova
Page Count: 32
Release Date: 7/3/2024

Prev1of7NextEditor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with the preview images of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by pre-ordering this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

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Jaymee, Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller), bring you Season 16 Episode 12 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Reviews: Batman #149 and Detective Comics #1086.

Greater Gotham covers Nightwing #115, World’s Finest #28, Wonder Woman #10 backup only, Catwoman #66, Harley Quinn #41, The Brave and the Bold #14, The Penguin #11, Wayne Family Adventures Mini Episode #3 “Super Friends”, Episode #117, Season 3 opening, “One Bad Day, part 1.” Can you imagine something more upsetting than new Orgham Family plots? What’s happening with the Batfamily? These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at tbu@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on twitter, or on our Discord server!

Missed an episode? You can find this episode and all of our episodes wherever you find your favorite podcasts, on YouTube, and here at TheBatmanUniverse.net!

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In Detective Comics #1086, the Orghams kick their plan to take over Gotham into yet another gear as Batman and his allies, both heroic and villainous, strike back.Detective Comics #1086 main cover by Evan Cagle

Title: “Gotham Nocturne: Act III – Crescendo, Part 3”
Writer: Ram V
Artist: Stefano Raffaele
Colors: Lee Loughridge
Main Cover: Evan Cagle
Variant Covers: Javier Fernandez/Dave McCaig, Seb McKinnon, Sebastian Fiumara (1:25 incentive)
Release Date: June 25, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers.

Batman, sporting his new bloody Batsymbol on his chest, beats up dozens and dozens of gang members in an ancient trainyard on his way to meet Two-Face. Using his tiny sound wave speakers, Batman rids Two-Face of the azmer demon, so Harvey can take over again. He apologizes for not understanding the struggle against the azmer and asks for Harvey’s help against the impossible Orgham forces.

Three years after being dragged out of her Joker’s Daughter persona, Duela Dent rents from a kindly old couple in Gotham. Joker sits next to her on a bench and tells her he’s microwaved one of her landlord’s cats to frame her, then leaves her his old mask of his face (from the n52 Detective Comics run).

Jim Gordon gets data on the Orgham’s mysterious plans from his daughter, Oracle, and gives it to Commissioner Montoya (obviously, this story happens on a completely different timeline from the main Batman book).

Batman gives the Ten-Eyed man the same data, looking for patterns.

The Orghams plan to set loose the disenfranchised on the streets of Gotham, led by a Shadow Angel taking the place of Prince Arzen.

On the rooftops, Batman meets with Nightwing, Cassandra Cain Batgirl, and Azrael, recognizing the false flag attack by the Orghams on themselves to paint themselves as innocent responders when they take over Gotham officially. Batman leads his family to fight for Gotham’s dark soul.

Duela reclaims her mission as Joker’s Daughter, murdering her kind landlords brutally, and putting on her old mask as Gotham burns.

Batman and Harvey meet face-to-face-to-face. (credit: DC Comics)

With three issues following this until the end of his run, Ram V adds multiple new elements to the story as it builds to its climax. The mysterious Shadow Angel, yet another Orgham villain with unspecified origin, powers, and motivations, arrives and seems to look a lot like Prince Arzen (but can’t be because Shiva stole his body and gave it to Talia to dunk in a Lazarus Pit a few issues ago). Ram V also drags Joker’s Daughter in from her peaceful retirement. Plus, the Orgham’s have an additional new plan that Batman, Oracle, and the Ten-Eyed Man are trying to predict. This is all while the Orghams launch a false flag attack on themselves, so they can appear like they are responding to a threat when they take over the city. All of these new elements are completely confusing.

Shadow Angel perhaps was set up by the Orgham Queen’s mysterious plan last issue, but again, with so many Orgham villains having no origin, powers that have no definition, and no motivation whatsoever, adding another villain only adds to that frustration. Joker’s Daughter, last remembered in the new 52 where she turned the stomachs of so many readers, is dragged into Joker’s plot against both Batman and the Orghams in yet another stomach-churning, disgusting way. Microwaving a cat to incite a girl to murder people who have been nothing but kind to her is very characteristic of the Joker, but it’s also the kind of thing that is designed to make the reader hurt and disgusted without any recourse. It’s the kind of thing that’s best done at the beginning of an arc so there can be processing and justice. Instead, it’s just thrown in as another escalation of plotlines when the plotlines we already have don’t make sense.

The Orgham’s secret new plan seems to exist just to give Oracle and the Ten-Eyed Man something to do, without having any stakes we actually care about. And of course, the Orghams launching a false flag attack no doubt has wonderful Nazi parallels, but since they already held a public execution in the middle of the city, and talk all the time about how they control the city, having another plan to take over the city again is absolutely bizarre. Add to that the use of extremely complicated symbolic figures like JFK and Gandhi, a gratuitous repetition of Morrison’s “Hole in the world” imagery from the end of Batman Incorporated Vol 2 (far surpassed by Vol 3 by Ed Brisson recently), and you have a book that is trying to say something serious about the world, and crime, and the oppressors and oppressed, but instead get something that runs purely on vibes and falls apart at the slightest breath of careful reading.

A few things stand out as positives. The writing of the established characters, from Jim Gordon to Azrael, continues to show that if Ram V weren’t obsessed with the Orgham plot, this could have been a strong series. The excellent art of Steffano Raffaele also remains a stunner, and it’s nice to see the maintaining of single artists per issue. However, these minor positives don’t outweigh the consistent unnecessary frustration of the plot and main villains.

What About the Backup?Title: “Habeas Corpus”
Writer: Alex Paknadel
Artist: Lisandro Estherren
Colors: Patricio Delpeche

One of Two-Face’s boys called Stumbles betrayed him and killed another gang member in a gun-buying operation. Two-Face argues with himself about killing Stumbles, imagining a court of law and his old principles. Harvey gets Two-Face to flip for it, and the clean side lands up. Two-Face orders Stumbles banished instead of killed and rounds up his entire gang to go to war with the Orghams.

I really struggle with the sympathy this comic is attempting to arouse in me for characters like Duela, Stumbles, and Two-Face. The sympathy is good to remember the darkness in all of our hearts, but the idea that because they faced hard choices and abuse it’s okay that they murder others is completely unpalatable. It leans towards the idea that Batman has more sympathy with his villains than with the people he’s trying to protect that seems to be one of the main ways The Killing Joke has pushed his character.

That extreme rejection of the story’s apparent moral point aside, Paknadel’s writing is nicely deployed. The internal conflict and lawyer’s setting is fun to see deployed in a Two-Face story, and the tension leading to Harvey’s final decision is very nicely handled, and dovetails well into the main story, as these backups often have been.

The art by Lisandro Estherren, however, is very messy and unappealing. One could argue that it may be intentional – similar to artists like Eduardo Risso or Denys Cowan, Estherren may be capturing the ugliness of the Gotham underworld – but it seems unnecessarily off putting. Fans of Batman: The Animated Series may appreciate the design similarities that Estherren puts into the Harvey side of Two-Face, however!

Evan Cagle’s main cover shows Batman wrapped in his cape as bats made up of Joker smiles fly away – a clever way of hinting at the growing Joker menace in the book. Seb McKinnon’s variant paints Batman in a cemetery beneath a stone angel, a very emotional and lovely image, though the connections to the main story are much harder to discern (if there are any). Veteran artist Javier Fernandez’s variant shows Batman fighting gang members with bar codes on the backs of their heads, a very visceral scene compounded by the glaring red and orange lighting. Sebastian Fiumara once again provides the 1 in 25 incentive variant, this time a statue of Batman defaced with Joker graffiti – another nice nod to the rising Joker plotline in the story, though the cover lacks a lot of Fiumara’s stylistic flourishes.

Editor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with an advanced copy of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by purchasing this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

Review: Detective Comics #1086Final ThoughtsThe confusing, nebulous, and frustrating Orgham plot continues to be all three of those things, and while Ram V and Alex Paknadel do excellent work with the characterization of the established characters, the overall effect is still one of vague obscurity.2Overall ScoreSupport TBU By Purchasing From Our Affiliate SponsorsAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Detective Comics #1086 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In Catwoman #66, Selina Kyle and Scandal put their plan in motion to enlist the alliances of Santa Espada and Flamingo.Catwoman #66 main cover by David Nakayama.

Title: Catwoman #66
Writer: Tini Howard
Artist: Ivan Shavrin
Color Artist: Ivan Shavrin & Veronica Gandini
Main Cover: David Nakayama
Variant Covers: Rachta Lin & Pablo Villalobos; Otto Schmidt (1:25); W Scott Forbes (1:50)
Release Date: June 18, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers.

Scandal Savage and Selina Kyle are asleep. Selina is suffering from a nagging headache, and Scandal can hear something that is driving her crazy. Selina has a dream with the cat god who tells her that there is something foreign in her. Scandal wakes up Selina, and since Selina cannot hear or detect anything, they put their plan into motion.

Scandal calls Flamingo and Santa Espada separately, saying that she has the item they are looking for. Neither villain is aware that the other is involved. Scandal is to present a seemingly unconscious and captured Catwoman. She will turn over her prisoner for the right price.

Both villains take the bait. Scandal presents the prize and then leaves to negotiate with the two villains separately. Catwoman, using a device she “borrowed” from Batman, will make her escape to the second container, rebind herself, and be presented as a helpless captive. Santa Espada suspects a trick when she notices blood on the floor. Flamingo stabbed Selina in the leg to verify that she was still alive. This leads to a standoff where Catwoman knocks out Flamingo, and Scandal fights with Santa. Eventually the henchmen of the two villains are killed, leaving all the main villains to discuss what is happening.

The four agree that Viceroy is pulling a scam on all of them, so they set up a last stand in Gotham with Selina and Scandal’s people to help.

Scandal Savage’s wake-up call. Image courtesy of DC Comics.

The best part of this book again is the art. I actually preferred the final product of the second colorist better than the first colorist but there are noticeable continuity errors. In the beginning pages when Selina is shown in the container as a prisoner, her costume is still torn up as was shown in Catwoman #65 and her hands are handcuffed in her front. The last time Flamingo opens the container before the fight, Catwoman’s costume is whole and her hands are handcuffed behind her back. There is definitely something up here.

Catwoman does noticeably look better after her hands cuffed behind her back scene. The musculature in her body is more pronounced, and yes, she has a sexier look. The issue though is with her ears. They are droopy, and that is not a part of any of her costumes I have seen in the past.

There really is not much to say about this story. In my summary, I left out the main reveal which goes back to the Gotham War story. Not really worth repeating here. Now this story has moved from its religious exploration to a heist type of story with deception? This whole plot is so convoluted that it is really hard even to describe, somehow both Scandal and Selina have to be two places at once involving two villains who do not know the presence of the other. This just reads and sounds like a bad double date where the guy has a date with two women at the same time.

Review: Catwoman #66Final ThoughtsWhen will this story ever end? I am ready to move on please.StoryArtColors2.7Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Catwoman #66 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Nightwing #115, we get “Fallen Grayson Part 2!” As the siege on the Alfred Pennyworth Foundation Fundraiser continues, Dick is separated from his family and gets attacked by Heartless!###### This review contains spoilers

Nightwing #115 main cover by Bruno Redondo

Nightwing #115 Written by: Tom Taylor
Art by: Bruno Redondo
Cover by: Bruno Redondo
Variant covers by: Dan Mora, Marco Santucci, Vasco Georgiev, and Bruka Jones
Page Count: 32
Release Date: 6/18/2024

As the sprinkler system douses their guests, the Bat-Family (Dick Grayson, Barbara Gordon, Damian Wayne and Bruce Wayne) help evacuate the room before the fire spreads throughout the building. Shelton Lyle approaches Dick for help, claiming he’s unable to find his butler Gerald. While the room is emptied, Dick goes off on his own to find Gerald, only to be ambushed by the man, Lyle, and drugged gas that throws off his senses. Cold-cocked into the wall unconscious, the flashbacks of Dick’s first fall at Haley’s Circus continue.

Lyle and Gerald bring Dick out and take his to an ambulance, telling Bruce he’ll be transported to Gotham General. Secretly, the ambulance stops in an alley, where the paramedics deliver Dick’s unconscious body to Heartless and Tony Zucco. Searching for his phone to destroy, they find his Nightwing domino mask, deducing his identity immediately. Gerald murders the two paramedics, leaving him, Heartless and Zucco as the only witnesses to the scene.

Dick awakens on a rooftop and discovers the body of Mr. Waghorne, the journalist who interrogated him over his funds being used to acquire Blockbuster’s holdings earlier in the evening. Waghorne’s heart has been plucked from his chest, and just as Dick sees the Heart-Gun clenched in his hand, he’s tackled by Blüdhaven PD, alerting him to his whereabouts. Dick’s disguised in Heartless’ costume, mask and all. He tries to flee the cops on the rooftop, but his acrophobia cripples his timing, leading to him getting shot in the shoulder and quickly unmasked.

Trap sprung… (Image Credit: DC Comics)

Analysis:

The team of Tom Taylor and Bruno Redondo keep the fires burning with Fallen Grayson Part 2, where the rhythm of Dick’s descent increases which each new calamity. He’s tricked and injured (Lyle’s punch broke his ribs), kidnapped, secret identity blown and framed for murder before being arrested – all in one issue. A solid series of events well paced with good insertions of his childhood flashbacks and increased amounts of violence.

Characterization is good throughout as well, from Barbara’s pleased reaction to Damian’s mastery of all potential exits in the building, to Bruce’s glare on the ambulance as Dick is carried off. That last detail is once again owed to Redondo’s subtle renderings, but has me figuring that whatever evil plan Heartless has for Dick, even with finding out that he’s Nightwing, he couldn’t have accounted for Batman and we’ll be seeing Taylor’s penchant for bringing in the storm of the DC Universe to save our boy before long. I like this potential a lot, more so than Dick simply calling in favors, which he did several times during Taylor’s first year on the book. While I may be wrong on that outcome, I don’t think I will be. After three years on this title, I’d like to think I’ve got Taylor’s writing down.

That’s not to suggest that there’s any weaknesses in this part either, but there is something that I’m curious about. Shelton Lyle a.k.a. Heartless discovers that Dick Grayson is Nightwing in this issue. While this may reveal poor reading comprehension on my part, I had presumed him to already be well aware of Dick’s secret identity the whole time. Reading back, there’s nothing substantial to corroborate my guess, but Lyle’s obsession with Dick seemed to be all-encompassing. I suppose it explains how he’s been unable to account for the Titans or Batman family showing up to help Nightwing whenever they did, but I went into this arc anticipating that revelation to have already happened and for it to be a surprise for our hero. But it’s a surprise to the villain. Nothing wrong with it, just my assumption for a while.

So where’s this going? Now that Heartless knows Dick is Nightwing, does his revenge end simply with framing him for his own crimes? In a scene with Dick fighting the cops (which echoed Watchmen’s scene with Rorschach’s arrest hardcore), one might imagine it would end there, but to be honest that’s not much in the realm of revenge. Would he try and capture Barbara or his sister and pull out their hearts in front of him? Will he go after Batman now after learning the secret? And where does Zucco fit into all of this? I’ll have to read back again, because I’m unsure why Zucco hates Dick Grayson so much, since his arrest was at the hands of Batman and Robin years and years ago (hopefully that hasn’t been retconned, still not liking Taylor’s fussing around the details of that original story). Nevertheless I’m once again in a position to merely praise and ponder the outcome, which means for the second month in a row Nightwing’s knocked it out of the park.

Nightwing #1154Support TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Nightwing #115 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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4Final ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldIn this review of Batman #149, Bruce deals with the aftermath of the battle against Zur en Arrh, especially with the clone of himself that was turned into a twisted vision of Robin…###### This review contains spoilers

Batman #149 main cover by Jorge Jimenez

Batman #149
Main Story: “A Good Fantasy”
Writer: Chip Zearsky
Artist: Michele Bandini
Colors: Nick Filardi
Main Cover: Jorge Jimenez
Variant Covers: Gabriele Dell’otto, Belen Ortega, Dan Panosian, Steve Lieber/Nathan Fairbairn
Release Date: June 18th, 2024

Two weeks after the end of “Dark Prisons”, Zur en Arrh’s Bruce Wayne clone Robin fights crime in Gotham alleyways, and Batman stops him and embraces him. Bruce takes him to the cave under the brownstone and runs tests, revealing that clone Bruce has manipulated memories from Bruce’s life, and he’s aging at an incredible rate. Clone Bruce admits that Zur planned to let him die and put another clone in his place, so none of the “Robins” could ever break free of his control. Damian tells Bruce that he’s going to get the Failsafe body back from Amanda Waller, but Bruce feels his priority has to be the clone for now. Batman takes Tim Drake Robin to Zur’s base, where they search for a cure to clone Bruce’s aging, and Bruce talks about the fallout in his mind and heart after Zur’s attacks. Back at the brownstone, clone Bruce notices Bruce’s robot hand, and Bruce, slowly gaining Zur’s memories, realizes that Zur had secret accounts with more than 3 billion dollars. When he comes back to the brownstone, Tim and Damian tell Bruce that clone Bruce has cut off his hand for Bruce to use.

Dick Grayson arrives, meeting Damian, Tim, Barbara, and Mr. Terrific, but none of them can figure out a solution to clone Bruce’s aging. Clone Bruce, now very, very old, says he doesn’t want to die underground, so Bruce (sporting weeks worth of beard) takes him outside to watch the sunset in the yard of Wayne Manor. Clone Bruce dies, saying that a good life is helping and being helped, and Bruce thanks his clone.

Vandal Savage lights up the Batsignal, offering to let Bruce be Batman if he just does some jobs for him. Batman blows up the Batsignal in response, punches Vandal, and says he’s going to take him down.

Analysis:

After the non-stop high intensity of Mindbomb, Joker Year One, and Dark Prisons, Zdarsky takes this issue as a one-shot examination of Batman’s mission, themes, as well as a fun classic Batman and Robin action in a dark Gotham alleyway, with a twist! The tale of clone Bruce was touching and fun – a really nice way for Zdarsky to have Bruce reflect on his own memories and what Batman means – particularly in clone Bruce’s final words – “To help and be helped” is a good life. Similar to Zdarsky’s work on Daredevil, that lasered in on Daredevil’s heart to help others, we see his grasp of Batman as a hero – one who inspires because he helps others. And also dresses as a bat and is very cool. But mostly because he helps others, and slowly learns to accept help from those he inspires.

The sense of “putting the toys back in the toybox” is strong in this issue, with Bruce’s severed hand being fixed by the clone Bruce’s sacrifice, Zur en Arrh being said to be completely wiped from Failsafe. With Tom Taylor, Ram V, Tini Howard, and Josh Williamson all ending their run on Bat-books in September, it’s looking like a complete relaunch of the Bat-line, possibly under Katie Kubert’s hand, possibly as the start of a new Bat-editorial’s tenure. No announcement from Zdarsky, unlike the other four who are leaving, so it’s possible that he’s staying for a final arc, but I hope he’s able to finish up the way he wanted. He said back at the beginning of his run that he had about 2-3 years planned, up to about 2025, and it’s quite possible that the end of this year will see the end of his run. A shame for me, personally, if true, as I’ve generally enjoyed the run quite a bit. Lower points like The Bat-Man of Gotham or of course Gotham War are more than balanced out by the high-energy fun of Failsafe, the Tim Drake multiverse backups, and the last year of increasingly dark Zur en Arrh stories. Zdarsky’s managed to write a Bruce who is very flawed, but also very loveable, and juggle the Batfamily pretty well, giving everyone their moment to shine (even if it’s also clear that he loves Tim Drake the best).

Artist Michele Bandini draws very appealing characters – and has since I first encountered his work in Amazing Spider-Man by Nick Spencer and the Insomniac Spider-Man video game adaptation. While the clean lines and layouts don’t have the same absolutely brilliant energy of Jorge Jimenez’s work, they work perfectly for the quieter story, while also emphasizing the darker emotions of the opening. Veteran colorist Nick Filardi returns to the Bat-titles after a long absence and knocks it out of the park – from the dark, high contrast lighting of the Gotham alleyway and rooftops, to the intensely warm and sweet hues of the sunset as clone Bruce dies. Artistically, the book remains in top form as usual, and if one can’t have Jorge on the interiors, Bandini is more than sufficient for a good Batman story.

Backup Story:Writer: Chip Zdarsky
Artist: Steve Lieber
Colors: Nick Filardi

The Batfamily gathers in civilian clothes, starting with Dick and Babs, joined by Damian and Duke, Cass, Steph, and Tim, and they wind up at an old, broken down mansion Bruce is fixing up. He tells his kids that it’s the Lohmuller Mansion, taken over by the Joker. Bruce plans to convert the buildings around the mansion into affordable housing, charities, and gardens for the public, and rename the house “Pennyworth Manor.” He invites the kids to consider Pennyworth Manor their new home, too, saying they’re not an army, but a family. He wants Batman and the Batfamily, as well as the Wayne family, to live in Gotham, not outside it. He tells Dick that getting old with his family is a good fantasy.

Later that night, as he receives the coffin for clone Bruce and buries it, Selina arrives. They laugh about the weirdness of their lives (his clone, her space adventures in Tini Howard’s run), and Bruce apologizes for his actions during Gotham War. He asks if Selina wants to move in with the rest of the family, and she turns him down, but comes in to see the house and his plans nonetheless.

Backup Analysis:

Though not officially labeled a backup (indeed, the title at the beginning references a line near the end of this portion of the story), the sharp cutoffs in setting, theme, and of course the change in artist means I think it should be reviewed as one. Zdarsky is setting up a new status quo for Batman and the Batfamily – instead of being a millionaire in a brownstone with the family scattered, Zdarsky’s given Bruce his money and his hand back, and given him a project to revitalize part of Gotham and make an impact as the Waynes with his family around him. Reminiscent of Tom Taylor’s work in Nightwing as Dick Grayson inherits Alfred’s fortune and uses it to establish charities and community in Bludhaven, this has a more Bruce flavor to it, even as it also pays homage to the beloved Alfred and his impact on Bruce and the family. It’s great to see the Batfamily, including of course Catwoman, find a new space with Batman, and I hope that however much time Zdarsky has left on the title, he manages to make this status quo stick for a while even after he leaves. The character writing is pitch perfect for each character, though some commentators have been irritated that Jason doesn’t show up in this backup story. Given his huge role in the last issue, and the potential for Jason to play a big part in Absolute Power, my guess is that Zdarsky wasn’t able to include him, but not that he considers Jason “not part of the family” at all.

Classic artist Steve Lieber (who drew one of the first comics I remember reading as a kid, Detective Comics #767) draws this 8 page backup, once again colored by Nick Filardi (confirmed on twitter). His clean lines have humor and a bite to them that Bandini’s don’t have. Not that Bandini’s characters and faces don’t have expression and pungency, but Lieber has such a finely honed sense of comedy, appeal and ugliness, and linework that it’s cool seeing how he manages to imbue so much life into minor interactions between the Batfamily in their civilian clothes. Plus, he throws in absolutely beautiful touches like the shadow of the Batman as Bruce receives the coffin. The interactions between Bruce and Selina are also pitch purrfect – flirty, romantic, wistful, regretful – all the emotion of the dialogue is impeccably enhanced by Lieber and Filardi’s skilled work. All in all, this short 8 page backup provides a perfectly conceived and executed new status quo for Batman and the Batfamily, and I hope that it proves durable for a few years, come what may.

Series main artist Jorge Jimenez provides our main cover, a nicely rendered image of Bruce facing Batman with his mask off – a nice reference to the interior story of Bruce dealing with his own clone. Gabriele Dell’Otto’s variant features Bane pushing Batman down, instead of raising him up, a somewhat novel framing of the arch-rivals! Frequent backup artist Belen Ortega (of the Trinity backups in Wonder Woman and the Catwoman backup that Zdarsky started this series out with) draws a Bruce lit all in red kneeling in contemplative fashion against a backdrop of blue smoke and red sky. Dan Panosian’s 1-in-25 incentive is a gorgeous Batman marching towards the reader through an alleyway lit in golden glow. Lastly, interior backup artist and all time classic Batman artist Steve Lieber provides the 1-in-50 incentive variant featuring a carefully selected array of objects – a bad, a skull, a glove (hinting at Batman’s hand shenanigans in the issue), the utility belt, and of course, a photo of the Waynes and Martha’s pearls.

Editor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with an advance copy of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by purchasing it this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

Batman #149Final ThoughtsZdarsky turns in a one shot issue that serves as a beautiful mirror image of the tormented and foreboding (but also excellent) Batman #136, showing Bruce embracing his family and finding peace in his mission, beautifully illustrated by Michele Bandini, Steve Lieber, and Nick Filardi.4Final ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Batman #149 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #28, Batman, Superman, and Bat-Mite struggle to get back to the third dimension in order to help Jimmy Olsen overcome Doom-Mite. Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #28 main cover by Dan Mora

Title: Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #28 – Impossible: Part Three
Writer: Mark Waid
Artist: Dan Mora & Travis Mercer
Colors: Tamra Bonvillain
Letters: Steve Wands
Main Cover: Dan Mora
Variant Covers: Felipe Massafera, Nathan Szerdy & Matt Taylor
Release Date: June 18, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers.

Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #28 opens right after the cliffhanger ending of Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #27. Jimmy Olsen, having been bestowed with powers from Mr. Mxyzptlk, is the last champion standing. Doom-Mite, the imp master behind this fifth-dimensional catastrophe, reveals himself, ready to face Earth’s mightiest contender. Some of the heroes come to Jimmy’s rescue, but Doom-Mite sends them away. All but Jimmy, Robin (Dick Grayson), and Mr. Mxyzptlk remain, and Mxyzptlk tries to bolt. Robin grabs the imp and forces him to do something. Mxyzptlk’s solution is to bestow all of his powers on Jimmy and call it a day.

The art opening this issue is wild, which isn’t unexpected. This whole arc has been nothing but a Silver Age explosion of zany color. It’s as if Tamra Bonvillain, Dan Mora, and Travis Mercer got together and committed to Lisa Frank-ifying every page. The result is eye-catching, dizzying, and akin to the sweetest sugar rush.

Jimmy, who is now an imp, takes the form of Superman, flies toward Doom-Mite, and is crushed by Doom-Mite’s gargantuan fist.

Elsewhere, in the sixth dimension, Batman, Superman, and Bat-Mite find themselves trapped at the temporal convergence of all time. Behind them, black and white panels canvas this dimension, as the heroes try to figure their way out of here. For the art team, this adds a creative outlet to reference familiar storylines, including a fantastic nod to Batman: Year One, among other favorites.

Whereas Batman threatens Bat-Mite, Superman uses a gentler touch, convincing Bat-Mite to help them get back to their home dimension. What follows is a series of fourth-wall-breaking, as Bat-Mite literally tears the pages until they arrive in the third dimension, their home dimension. Unfortunately, Bat-Mite goes too far, and the three of them end up in the first dimension, which is mostly a blank canvas.

Before Batman can go off on Bat-Mite, Superman tries to intervene. However, Batman realizes what he must do. As the art reappears, showing our heroes and Bat-Mite in an ever-growing bubble, Batman empathizes with his number one fan. He realizes that Bat-Mite misses going on silly adventures with Batman and Robin, but as Batman points out, the world isn’t like that anymore. Batman isn’t an idol, he’s a man trying to prevent trauma and loss, and that there isn’t that zany silliness anymore. However, as Bat-Mite’s eyes well up with tears, Batman asks for one last team-up, so they can stop Doom-Mite.

This is the emotional heart to this story we didn’t see coming. The last couple of issues have been devoted to good, old-fashioned fun. They were comics that harkened back to a seemingly simpler time, bringing back a blast of fun with characters that aren’t often used anymore. Then writer Mark Waid, artists Dan Mora and Travis Mercer, colorist Tamra Bonvillain, and letter Steve Wands hit readers with the feels. It almost creeps up out of nowhere, with everything going white, then images of our heroes slowly growing bigger as Batman removes his mask to reveal the human face behind the Dark Knight.

It’s a work of genius. It’s only a few pages, but the paneling makes it feel like this moment drags out time, slowing down the pacing of this otherwise pulse-racing adventure. While Waid, speaking through Batman, confesses that the world isn’t like the Silver Age era anymore, that classic, empathetic, and so very human Batman shines through. He convinces Bat-Mite with soft-spoken words, with an appeal to emotions. It’s a Batman we haven’t seen in a while, but it’s an incarnation that is timeless, a depiction that has and always will be synonymous with the character.

Maybe that’s the subtext behind this scene. Or maybe I’m reading too much into this? Either way, it’s a beautiful moment that lands as we enter the final act of this storyline.

Jimmy Olsen gets imp-ed! (Credit: DC Comics)

Meanwhile, Robin buys time by taunting Doom-Mite, who tries and fails to blast the gymnast. It’s enough, as Jimmy Olsen, who said his name backwards to escape his destruction, arrives from the fifth dimension with an armada of imps who idolize the Justice League. The imps team up to fight Doom-Mite just as Batman, Superman, and Bat-Mite arrive. Batman has a plan, but before he can enact it, Doom-Mite zaps the Dark Knight, transforming him into a scrawny little imp.

If that heartfelt moment between Batman and Bat-Mite was a surprise, the ending certainly was an even bigger zag in this arc. Right as readers are comfortable and expecting a resolution, the creative team swerves as Doom-Mite makes quick work of Batman’s plan (or does he?). Part of me wonders if everything is going according to plan and Batman wanted to be blasted. The other part of me wonders if that’s just wishful thinking on my part.

Regardless, the ending is colorful, grotesque, and a little bit horrifying as Batman face stretches and eyeballs bulge as he’s transformed. Our final shot is of Doom-Mite blowing the smoke off his finger gun, with a smug look on his putrid face.

Review: Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #28Final ThoughtsBatman / Superman: World’s Finest #28 is an emotional sneak attack in an otherwise rollercoaster of impish goodness. There’s action, heart, unexpected surprises, and crackshot art that doesn’t miss a beat.4Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our SponsorsAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Batman / Superman: World’s Finest #28 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this preview of Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #28, Something is destroying the fifth dimension—and if an army of evil imps can obliterate all the joy and life from an entire reality, what chance do Superman and Batman stand against it? A multitude of DC guest stars—and their fifth-dimensional counterparts—join the World’s Finest duo in a last-ditch attempt to save Earth from the ultimate darkness!

Enjoy this preview of Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #28, provided by: DC Comics. And check back here at The Batman Universe later this week to see our review of the issue.

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #28 Written by: Mark Waid
Art by: Dan Mora
Cover by: Dan Mora
Variant covers by: Nathan Szerdy, Felipe Massafera, and Matt Taylor
Page Count: 32
Release Date: 6/18/2024

Prev1of5NextEditor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with the preview images of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by pre-ordering this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

The post Preview: Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #28 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this preview of Nightwing #115, Part 2 of the Heartless saga continues! When things go up in flames, Dick must put his feelings aside and help Shelton, a.k.a. Heartless, find his butler. After all, a superhero’s job is to save everyone, even the very bad. But every noble sacrifice comes with a price, and Nightwing finds himself in a situation only someone as cunning as Heartless could’ve concocted.

Enjoy this preview of Nightwing #115, provided by: DC Comics. And check back here at The Batman Universe later this week to see our review of the issue.

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In this preview of Batman #149, “DARK PRISONS – EPILOGUE” – When confronted with the totality of your life, and all the choices that led you to where you are, do you build on the ashes, or rise from them? The Batman who is left standing will have to answer this question quickly, as someone is already sifting through those ashes, with an eye toward saving the world!

Enjoy this preview of Batman #149, provided by: DC Comics. And check back here at The Batman Universe later this week to see our review of the issue.

Batman #149 Written by: Chip Zdarsky
Art by: Michele Bandini
Cover by: Jorge Jiménez
Variant cover by: Gabriele Dell’otto, Belen Ortega, Dan Panosian, Steve Lieber, and Steve Lieber
Page Count: 40
Release Date: 6/18/2024

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DC Comics solicitations for September 2024 and beyond have been released by the publisher. Highlighting this month’s releases continues to be the Absolute Power event spearheaded by Mark Waid. Also out in September is the newest addition to the Long Halloween saga with Batman The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween #1. We also see the final issues in the runs of Ram V on Detective Comics and Tom Taylor on Nightwing.

Check out the DC Comics solicits within the Batman Universe for September 2024 below, courtesy of DC comics. If you want to see the full solicits for the month of September 2024, you can find them at our sister site, The Comic Book Spot.

(Click images to enlarge)

BATMAN #152

Prev1of7NextWritten by Chip Zdarsky
Art by Mike Hawthorne and Adriano Di Benedetto
Backup by Kelly Thompson and Mattia De Iulis
Cover by Salvador Larroca
Variant covers by Guillem March and Dave Johnson
1:25 cover by Belén Ortega
1:50 variant cover by Joëlle Jones
Artist Spotlight variant cover by Nicola Scott
Hispanic Heritage Month variant cover by José Luis García-López & Joe Prado
$4.99 US | 40 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/4/24
ABSOLUTE POWER TIE-IN!
In a thrilling Absolute Power tie-in, Batman and Catwoman must find the key to Amanda Waller’s plans in an extremely remote—and shockingly dangerous—location! Living (dying?) up to their name, some of the Suicide Squad won’t be coming back from their mission, but will Batman and Catwoman stay free to fight another day?! Plus, a Birds of Prey backup finds the Birds facing Waller’s minions in an unexpected adventure!

BATMAN THE LONG HALLOWEEN: THE LAST HALLOWEEN #1

Prev1of2NextWritten by JEPH LOEB
Art by EDUARDO RISSO
Cover by TIM SALE
Variant covers by EDUARDO RISSO and JIM LEE 1:25 variant cover by EDUARDO RISSO
1:50 variant cover by TIM SALE
$4.99 US | 32 pages | (all covers are card stock)
ON SALE 9/25/24
In 1996, writer Jeph Loeb and artist Tim Sale teamed up for Batman: The Long Halloween, an award-winning 13-chapter saga that spawned multiple sequels and stands as the most influential Batman story of its era. Now, Loeb returns to the world of The Long Halloween for its long-anticipated final act: Batman: The Last Halloween, an all-new 10-part mystery continuing the story from 2021’s The Long Halloween Special. In each issue, Loeb will be joined by one of the top artists in comics, in a beautiful and lovingly crafted tribute to Sale’s art and legacy.
In issue one, Gotham City learns to fear Halloween once more as a terrible event threatens to destroy Jim Gordon’s life and puts Batman and Robin’s teamwork to the test more than ever before. In a city of liars, masked vigilantes, and criminals…can anyone be trusted?

BATMAN THE LONG HALLOWEEN: THE LAST HALLOWEEN #0

Written by JEPH LOEB
Art by TIM SALE
Cover by TIM SALE
$3.99 US | 48 pages | One-Shot | (all covers are card stock)
ON SALE 9/18/24
Prelude to Batman The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween!
You thought you knew the whole story of Batman: The Long Halloween…you were wrong! Reprinting the final collaboration between legendary creators Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale, this special uncovers a deadly mystery that could destroy Batman, Commissioner Gordon, Two-Face, and…well, that would be telling, wouldn’t it? Don’t miss out on this special reprint of the prelude to THE LAST HALLOWEEN.

ABSOLUTE POWER #3

Prev1of9NextWritten by MARK WAID
Art and cover by DAN MORA
Variant covers by IVÁN TALAVERA, CARLA COHEN, MIKE DEODATO JR., STEPHEN BLISS, and MARC ASPINALL
Raised UV variant cover by TREVOR HAIRSINE
Connecting Variant cover (7 OF 12) by JOHN TIMMS
Power Participation cover by MARK SPEARS
$4.99 US | 40 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/4/24
Our heroes are on the run following the Trinity of Evil’s devastating attack on the fortress of Solitude! With Superman’s headquarters in ruin and the super-powers on Planet Earth in the clutches of Amanda Waller, Failsafe, and the Brainiac Queen…is this the end of the line? No way—the resistance lives on! Using fortress technology cobbled together by Mr. Terrific and Air Wave, Earth’s last hope have retreated to Themyscira, home to Wonder Woman and famously suspicious of outsiders. Can Superman, Batman, and the rest of the depowered heroes strike an alliance with these elite Amazonian fighters? All this, and a mad mayday from Barry Allen as DC’s war for Absolute Power rages on!

BATMAN: THE BARBARIAN #1

Written by GREG SMALLWOOD
Art and cover by GREG SMALLWOOD
Variant covers by DAN PANOSIAN and KELLEY JONES
Foil variant cover by DAN PANOSIAN
1:25 variant cover by TK
1:50 variant cover by GREG SMALLWOOD
$4.99 US | 40 pages | 1 of 6 | Variants $5.99 US (card stock)
Foil variant $6.99 US (card stock)
Bi-Monthly
ON SALE 9/18/24
In a world where unspeakable beasts slither through silent temples, and sorcerers pledge innocent lives as blood sacrifices to incomprehensible cosmic designs, only one man has the strength of will and brute force required to protect the people who would become prey…the fearsome, blade-wielding Batman! But when the all-seeing Oracle warns him of a looming shadow creeping across the land, he will have to contend with foes that cannot be dispatched by sword alone…including the terrible memory of the catastrophe in which he was made!
Eisner Award-winning artist Greg Smallwood unleashes a brutal new vision of Bruce Wayne, shot through with high-fantasy hallmarks and awe-inspiring reimaginings of the classic Batman rogues gallery!

DETECTIVE COMICS #1089

Prev1of5NextWritten by RAM V
Art by GUILLEM MARCH
Cover by EVAN CAGLE
Backup written by DAN WATTERS
Backup art by TBD
Connecting variant covers by GUILLEM MARCH
1:25 variant cover by SEBASTIAN FIUMARA
Hispanic Heritage Month variant cover by JOSÉ LUIS GARCÍA-LÓPEZ & JOE PRADO$4.99 US | 40 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/25/24
It began with a melody, strange and haunting, drawing Batman deeper and deeper into a demonic odyssey. From the sewers under Gotham to a hallucinatory desert, from the brink of death to a strange rebirth, from the iron grip of order to the deadly blades of chaos, it has all led to this moment. And now, the curtains close on Ram V’s epic Gothic Opera!

NIGHTWING #118

Prev1of6NextWritten by TOM TAYLOR
Art and cover by BRUNO REDONDO
Variant covers by JAMAL CAMPBELL, BRUNO REDONDO, and SERG ACUÑA 1:25 variant cover by TIRSO
Artist Spotlight variant cover by NICOLA SCOTT
Cardstock variant cover by BRUNO REDONDO
$4.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/18/24
Embark on an exhilarating journey through the streets of Blüdhaven as we bid a heartfelt farewell to the dynamic duo of Tom Taylor and Bruno Redondo in the epic conclusion to their award-winning run. With Nightwing’s fear of heights overcome, he returns to Blüdhaven for one final face-off with Heartless and Tony Zucco. It’s the battle you’ve all been waiting for! And if we’ve learned anything from Nightwing these last couple of years, we know he never has to do it alone. One thing’s for certain though: Blüdhaven will never be the same after this!

NIGHTWING UNCOVERED

Prev1of4NextWritten by IVAN COHEN
Art by DEXTER SOY, JIM LEE, DAN MORA, JAMAL CAMPBELL,
TRAVIS MOORE, and others
Cover by DEXTER SOY
Variant covers by SALVADOR LARROCA and GIUSEPPE CAMUNCOLI
1:25 cover by VASCO GEORGIEV
1:50 variant cover by DEXTER SOY
Lenticular variant cover by BRUNO REDONDO
$5.99 US | 40 pages | Variant $6.99 US (card stock)
Lenticular variant $9.99 US
ON SALE 9/11/24
Dick Grayson is front and center in a stunning collection of some of the most compelling cover art to grace his solo title over the years!

BATMAN: DARK AGE #6

Prev1of2NextWritten by MARK RUSSELL
Art and cover by MICHAEL ALLRED
Variant cover by BILL SIENKIEWICZ
1:25 variant cover by IAN BERTRAM
$5.99 US | 48 pages | Variant $6.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/25/24
Gotham appears to be saved, but for how long? A face from Gotham’s past emerges from the ashes and the Anti-Monitor threatens to destroy everything. Bruce Wayne looks back across the years and wonders if it was all for nothing.

BATMAN: THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #17

Prev1of2NextWritten by MICHAEL CONRAD and ALEX SEGURA
Art by MIGUEL MENDONÇA and CHRISTOPHER MITTEN
Cover by SIMONE DI MEO
Variant covers by FRANCESCO MATTINA and CHRISTOPHER MITTEN
$7.99 US | 56 pages | Prestige | (all covers are card stock)
ON SALE 9/25/24
Leap year only comes once every four years, and for most, an extra day on the calendar is a mild novelty. But for Calendar Man, it’s a critical error in that which he holds most dear—and now, Batman and the GCPD respond to a deadly hostage situation, but can they work together to stop Calendar Man before it’s too late? And lastly, the Question—with the help of a surprise guest star—unmasks the mysterious villain Zerø!

CATWOMAN #68

Prev1of6NextWritten by TINI HOWARD
Art by CARMINE DI GIANDOMENICO
Cover by DAVID NAKAYAMA
Variant covers by RACHTA LIN and ROSE BESCH
1:25 variant cover by MARCIO TAKARA
1:50 variant cover by TIRSO
Artist Spotlight variant cover by NICOLA SCOTT
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/18/24
As the forces of the WHITE GLOVE prepare to put Gotham City in a stranglehold, Selina finds herself in need of emergency medical treatment from the steady hands of none other than HUSH. Will the Feline Fatale survive her procedure and live to protect her beloved precious city…or will she be reduced to fish food at the bottom of the Gotham City bay?

Prev1of6NextBIRDS OF PREY #13
Written by KELLY THOMPSON
Art by GAVIN GUIDRY
Cover by LEONARDO ROMERO
Variant covers by EJIKURE and GAVIN GUIDRY
1:25 variant cover by TRAVIS MERCER
Artist Spotlight variant cover by NICOLA SCOTT
Hispanic Heritage Month variant cover by JOSÉ LUIS GARCÍA-LÓPEZ & JOE PRADO$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/4/24
With the search for Barbara finally over, Cass leads the Birds of Prey through the portal one final time, and where they end up is a world far too familiar to Cass but strange to everyone else. What here will turn everything on its head…or should we say who?!

BATMAN AND ROBIN #13

Prev1of3NextWritten by JOSHUA WILLIAMSON
Art by JUAN FERREYRA
Cover by SIMONE DI MEO
Variant covers by JUAN FERREYRA and TRAVIS MERCER
1:25 variant cover by CHRISTIAN WARD
$4.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/11/24
Batman, Robin, and Bane must escape Dinosaur Island. But they are not alone! A dangerous presence has taken over and won’t let anyone leave the island alive! Can the father and son dynamic duo return to Gotham or will this be their last adventure together?!

BATMAN/SUPERMAN: WORLD’S FINEST #31

Prev1of5NextWritten by MARK WAID
Art by ADRIÁN GUTIÉRREZ
Cover by DAN MORA
Variant covers by IAN CHURCHILL and EDWIN GALMON
1:25 variant cover by MARCO D’ALFONSO
Artist Spotlight variant cover by NICOLA SCOTT
Hispanic Heritage Month variant cover by JOSÉ LUIS GARCÍA-LÓPEZ & JOE PRADO $3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/18/24
DARKNESS FALLS! Eclipso, master of light and shadow, has risen to plague the World’s Finest team of Superman and Batman! Powered like never before, Eclipso threatens to plunge the Earth into a state of eternal night–and eternal despair!

HARLEY QUINN #43

Prev1of5NextWritten by TINI HOWARD
Art by SWEENEY BOO
Cover by SWEENEY BOO
Backup written by ALEXIS QUASARANO
Variant covers by LEIRIX and RICCARDO FEDERICI
1:25 variant cover by ABIGAIL LARSON
Artist Spotlight variant cover by NICOLA SCOTT
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/25/24
Brrr! My buns are freezin’ off! With the threat of Gotham City being buried under five hundred metric tons of ice, your ol’ pal Harley Quinn (me!) has no choice but to face down against both the icecube lickingest bad dood to ever live, Mr. Freeze, and the devious Bat-family-hating Officer Pulaski! Can’t a Clown Queen of Crime catch a break?! Alls I want to do is set things right before the citizens of Gotham are turned into icy-cles.
Plus, I got one last dream to share with ya before these jabronis start pumping my brain with coffee 24/7 and it’s A JUICY ONE! That’s right, back by popular demand, MORE BEEFCAKE BARBARIAN QUEEN HARLEY by Alexis Quasarano and this time she’s joined by da Fellspyre Chronicles’ own Riccardo Federici!

POISON IVY #25

Prev1of4NextWritten by G. WILLOW WILSON, GRACE ELLIS, GRETCHEN FELKER-MARTIN, JOANNE STARER, and DAN WATTERS
Art by MARCIO TAKARA, BRIAN LEVEL, ATAGUN ILHAN, HAINING, and DANI Cover by JESSICA FONG
Variant covers by NOOBOVICH and MARCIO TAKARA
1:25 variant cover by BRIAN BOLLAND
1:50 variant cover by JESSICA FONG
Cardstock variant cover by BRIAN BOLLAND
$5.99 US | 48 pages | Variant $6.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/25/24
Join G. Willow Wilson, Marcio Takara, and a verdant grove of creators as they tell stories of Ivy’s past, present, and future! Discover the sad and true story of two cousins who loved mushrooms a little too much, a man who played with fire, a very hungry crocodile, and an orphan who dresses up like a bat! Plus, a sneak peek at what’s to come in year three of Poison Ivy! All this and more in this special oversized extravaganza.

MULTIVERSUS: COLLISION DETECTED

Prev1of4NextWritten by BRYAN Q. MILLER
Art by JON SOMMARIVA
Cover by DAN MORA
Variant covers by MIKEL JANÍN and RILEY ROSSMO 1:25 variant cover by JON SOMMARIVA
1:50 variant cover by TK
$4.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/18/24
Bruce Wayne, Diana Prince, and Clark Kent each wake in a cold sweat, troubled by strange dreams they’ve had about “the rabbit,” “the star child,” and “the witch.” Their investigation into these enigmatic visions brings them to unexpected locales and unusual characters, but none more unusual than the mysterious “rabbit” from their dreams as they find themselves face-to-face with the one and only Bugs Bunny. What the heck is going on here? And who in the name of the Multiverse are “the star child” and “the witch”?
The hit video game spills from your screen and into the DCU, and it’s bringing a whole lot of friends from some of your favorite universes with it!

TRINITY SPECIAL: WORLD’S FINEST

Prev1of4NextWritten by TOM KING
Art by BELÉN ORTEGA
Cover by DANIEL SAMPERE
Variant covers by BELÉN ORTEGA and SWEENEY BOO
1:25 variant cover by CHRISSIE ZULLO
1:50 variant cover by SAOWEE
$5.99 US | 56 pages | Variant $6.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/4/24
The world’s finest heroes of tomorrow are back for more! The daughter of Wonder Woman and the Super Sons return for more stories filled with laughs, action and awe-inspiring adventure. Can Lizzie survive Darkseid and his terrifying math? Will an innocent trip to the past for homework change the future? Are Damian and Jon’s barks worse than their bite? Find out in this collection of the latest back-up stories from the hit WONDER WOMAN series!

OUTSIDERS #11

Prev1of2NextWritten by JACKSON LANZING and COLLIN KELLY
Art by ROBERT CAREY
Cover by ROGER CRUZ
Variant cover by SERG ACUÑA
$4.99 US | 40 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/11/24
In the penultimate issue, our heroes enter the eye of the storm! The pages of reality have become torn and frayed, but will they burn away? Luke, Kate, and Drummer must face the past, present, and future as an unexpected force threatens to erase them all!

TITANS #15

Prev1of4NextWritten by TOM TAYLOR
Art by LUCAS MEYER
Cover by LUCAS MEYER
Variant covers by STJEPAN ŠEJIĆ and MIKE McKONE
Hispanic Heritage Month cover by JOSÉ LUIS GARCÍA-LÓPEZ & JOE PRADO
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/18/24
A major death will shake the DCU. There is no stopping it. Dark destiny is coming, and countless worlds shake with fear. The Dark Winged Queen is rising. Stronger than the Titans. Stronger than Trigon and all his demonic children. Can the Titans save the world and their friend? Or will they be forced to choose?

FROM THE DC VAULT: DEATH IN THE FAMILY: ROBIN LIVES! #3

Prev1of2NextWritten by J.M. DeMATTEIS
Art and cover by RICK LEONARDI
Variant cover by INHYUK LEE
$4.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/11/24
Over 30 years ago, history was made when fans voted to kill the second Robin, Jason Todd. Now, DC continues the alternate story of what would have happened if he had lived…
Jason Todd has escaped from the Dev Institute and is on the hunt for revenge—but when Robin finally finds the Joker, revenge transforms to tragedy…and madness!

Meanwhile, Batman’s encounter with Mother Grimm and her army of lost children has the Dark Knight questioning both his past and his purpose: Is he Gotham’s savior or the city’s worst nightmare? Rescuing Jason is the only way to find the answer…and Nightwing is there to help him!

DC’S I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST CRISIS #1

Prev1of3NextWritten by DAN DiDIO, REX OGLE, DAVE WIELGOSZ, RACHEL PINNELAS, MATTHEW LEVINE, and others
Art by M.L. SANAPO, ADAM GRAPHITE, SID KOTIAN, WILL ROBSON,
JORDI TARRAGONA, and others
Cover by DAN HIPP
Variant covers by EJIKURE and NICOLA SCOTT
$9.99 US | 80 pages | Prestige | Variant $9.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 10/2/24
In the blackest night, when the darkness feels infinite, the very fabric of the universe begins to tear…as every major crisis in DCU history rises once again! These eight chilling tales, set during the events of crises past, serve to warn you, dear reader: when in crisis, watch your back. In the fractured world of Flashpoint, Professor Pyg is stalking Gotham City’s nightclubs, sniffing out victims! During Blackest Night, Scarecrow lurks outside a movie theater, recruiting new test subjects to perfect his fear toxin! Even heroes like Nightwing aren’t safe when his death might just have the power to reverse the damage of Infinite Crisis! All these, plus new stories from Crisis on Infinite Earths, Millennium, Zero Hour, The Final Night, and Final Crisis are collected in DC’s I Know What You Did Last Crisis, a deadly new horror anthology coming to haunt you this fall!

BATMAN ’89 ECHOES #5

Written by SAM HAMM
Art and cover by JOE QUINONES
Variant cover by KERON GRANT
$3.99 US | 32 pages | Variant $4.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/25/24
All hell breaks loose at Arkham Asylum, but will Batman be able to get a handle on the chaos, or will his identity finally be uncovered?!

BATMAN: GOTHAM BY GASLIGHT: THE KRYPTONIAN AGE #3

Written by ANDY DIGGLE
Art and cover by LEANDRO FERNÁNDEZ
Variant covers by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA and FELIPE MASSAFERA
$4.99 US | 40 pages | 4 of 12 | Variants $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/11/24
In its search for ancient relics, the League of Assassins encounters the new bearer of the jade ring of Jong Li: Alan Scott! Meanwhile, in Metropolis, passionate reporter Lois Lane sets out for Kansas to investigate the robber baron looking to buy the Daily Planet…Lex Luthor!

DC VS VAMPIRES WORLD WAR V #2

Prev1of4NextWritten by MATTHEW ROSENBERG
Art and cover by OTTO SCHMIDT
Variant covers by CASPAR WIJNGAARD and LUCIO PARRILLO
1:25 variant cover by DANIELE DI NICUOLO
$4.99 US | 40 pages | 2 of 12 | Variants $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/11/24
The peace between vampires and heroes is wearing thin. Lois Lane will try and negotiate a way to maintain a truce, but with Damian’s relentless attacks on the vampire queen and her armies, the only thing that might be able to bring them together is a…Miracle.

DARK KNIGHTS OF STEEL: ALLWINTER #3

Prev1of3NextWritten by JAY KRISTOFF and TOM TAYLOR
Art by TIRSO and RICCARDO FEDERICI
Cover by TIRSO
Variant covers by SKYLAR PATRIDGE and RICCARDO FEDERICI
$4.99 US | 40 pages | 3 of 6 | Variants $5.99 US (card stock)
ON SALE 9/18/24
The harsh winter journey takes a surprising turn when a familiar face from
the Kingdom of El crashes into Slade and his young yet powerful charge, Alec Holland…but will Prince Bruce reveal himself to be friend or foe in their pursuit to end the Allwinter?
And in the backup feature written by Tom Taylor, mastermind behind the Dark Knights of Steel universe, and drawn by Riccardo Federici—soldiers-turned-deserters Martha and Jonathan Kent find a new calling—protecting the miraculous child they rescued from a brutal Atlantean attack on the surface world. But in a kingdom that hates and fears those with extraordinary powers, how long will two mere mortals be able to keep the secrets of baby Arthur’s origins?

CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS #6 FACSIMILE EDITION

Written by MARV WOLFMAN
Art by GEORGE PÉREZ and JERRY ORDWAY
Cover by GEORGE PÉREZ
Foil variant cover by GEORGE PÉREZ ($5.99 US)
Blank sketch cover ($4.99 US)
$3.99 US | 32 pages
ON SALE 9/18/24
With the Monitor dead, his opposite, the Anti-Monitor, has arrived and finds ultimate power almost within his reach. Will our champions, now scattered across the remaining three worlds, save their realities, or will the enhanced power of the Psycho-Pirate mean “3 Earths! 3 Deaths!”?

DETECTIVE COMICS #400 FACSIMILE EDITION

Written by FRANK ROBBINS and DENNIS O’NEIL
Art by NEAL ADAMS, DICK GIORDANO, GIL KANE, and VINCE COLLETTA
Cover by NEAL ADAMS
Foil variant cover by NEAL ADAMS ($5.99 US)
Blank sketch cover ($4.99 US)
$3.99 US | 32 pages
ON SALE 9/4/24
This classic Bronze Age tale, penciled by master Batman artist Neal Adams, returns in a full facsimile edition. When an experiment by zoologist Kirk Langstrom produces horrifying side effects, Batman is confronted with a new bat in Gotham as he faces the “Challenge of the Man-Bat”! Also features the Batgirl and Robin team-up “A Burial for Batgirl!”

THE BOY WONDER #5

Written by JUNI BA
Art and cover by JUNI BA
Variant cover by LÉA MURAWIEC
$4.99 US | 32 pages | 5 of 5 | (all covers are card stock)
ON SALE 9/4/24
The Robins have united to battle their way out of the stronghold of the Demon’s Head, but Damian cutting his family ties to Ra’s al Ghul isn’t just a matter of punching his way through ninjas. Could this fairy tale possibly have a happy ending? Or is the story of Damian Wayne an inescapable tragedy?

PRIMER CLASHING COLORS #3

Written by JENNIFER MURO and THOMAS KRAJEWSKI
Art by NICOLETTA BALDARI
Cover by GRETEL LUSKY
$4.99 US | 64 pages
ON SALE 9/11/24

Deathstroke and Strack are free from prison and ready to take their revenge on the Teen Titans…and on Primer. Can Ashley find a way to track them down, recapture the battery, and save the Titans—even as she reels from Ravager’s betrayal and the loss of the Primer suit?

BATMAN AND ROBIN AND HOWARD: SUMMER BREAK DOWN #3

Written by JEFFREY BROWN
Art and cover by JEFFREY BROWN
$4.99 US | 72 pages
ON SALE 9/4/24
Convinced Talia al Ghul is helping LuthorCorp establish RecomplexTech, Damian Wayne knows his mom is up to no good in Gotham. And he is certain the Hero Club are ninjas in her employ! Howard’s not so sure…but one thing is certain: Lex Luthor is determined to recycle enough Kryptonite to take down Superman. Can the kids learn to work together before Luthor’s plan is complete? Maybe Metropolis’s favorite reporter will bring just the help they need!

THE BATMAN & SCOOBY-DOO MYSTERIES #9

Written by MATTHEW CODY
Art and cover by DARIO BRIZUELA
$2.99 US | 32 pages
ON SALE 9/4/24
Copyright © 2024 DC Comics and Hanna-Barbera.
Shaggy and Scooby-Doo are scared of pretty much everything, especially ghosts and flying. So when Kite Man rebrands as the Flying Phantom of Wayne Tower, his most inept plot yet is terrifying to our scaredy-cats when they all literally get blown away from Gotham’s tallest building. Will they land safely, or have they had their final Scooby Snacks?

THE BAT-MAN: FIRST KNIGHT

Written by DAN JURGENS
Art and cover by MIKE PERKINS
$29.99 US | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-77952-791-2
ON SALE 11/5/24
The year is 1939. The place? Gotham City. a series of violent murders has begun and the recent emergence of the mysterious vigilante known as The Bat-Man has the power brokers of the city living in fear of institutional collapse. All of the evidence defies logic: the perpetrators are all men who died in the electric chair. But when the Bat- Man comes face to face with one of these sickening anomalies, he barely escapes with his life-throwing into question his ability to survive in a world that is brutally evolving around him! Legendary writer Dan Jurgens and superstar artist Mike Perkins return to the earliest days of the Dark Knight, depicting a world paralyzed by anxiety and a desperate populace crying out for release! Collects The Bat-Man: Dark Knight #1-3.

DC FINEST: BATMAN: BATMAN: YEAR ONE & TWO
Written by FRANK MILLER, MIKE W. BARR, MAX ALLAN COLLINS, and others
Art by DAVID MAZZUCCHELLI, TODD McFARLANE, DAVE COCKRUM, and others
Cover by DAVID MAZZUCCHELLI
$39.99 US | 592 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-77952-835-3
ON SALE 11/5/24
Begin your DC Finest: Batman collection with what is regarded as one of the greatest masterpieces in comics: “Year One.”
We all know the story of how young Bruce Wayne lost his parents. Now witness his early years, before he befriended an honest cop named James Gordon, as Bruce trains to become a dark guardian of justice. And in “Year Two,” Batman meets the Reaper, a villain so vile he made the Dark Knight rethink his stance on firearms. Collects Batman #404-414, Batman Annual #11, and Detective Comics #571-581.

ELSEWORLDS: BATMAN VOL. 3 (2024 EDITION)
Written by DOUG MOENCH, MAX ALLAN COLLINS, MIKE GRELL, and BOB LAYTON
Art by JIM APARO, BRET BLEVINS, NORM BREYFOGLE, TOM GRUMMETT, and others
Cover by EDUARDO BARRETO, MIKE GRELL, and BOB LAYTON
$34.99 US | 328 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-77952-961-9
ON SALE 11/5/24
In these stories, Ra’s al Ghul creates a league of Batman-like assassins in the far future, Batman takes on Al Capone in the 1920s, Batman and Harvey Dent fight over the love of a ballerina in an operatic tale, and the Dark Knight seeks vengeance in Camelot. Includes Brotherhood of the Bat #1, Batman: Knight Gallery #1, Batman: Scar of the Bat #1, Batman: Masque #1, and Batman: Dark Knight of the Round Table #1-2.

ELSEWORLDS: JUSTICE LEAGUE VOL. 3 (2024 EDITION)
Written by CHUCK DIXON, TERRY LaBAN, EVAN DORKIN, and FABIAN NICIEZA
Art by EDUARDO BARRETO, KEVIN MaGUIRE, TY TEMPLETON, and others
Cover by BRIAN BOLLAND
$34.99 US | 432 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-77952-961-9
ON SALE 10/22/24
In this long-forgotten tale, Mr. Mxyzptlk and Bat-Mite battle across the entire Multiverse, and almost every character you can think of is along for the ride! Plus, when a cosmic storm passes over planet Earth, it brings a mysterious plague that nearly kills the entire male population, and the only two men who survive are Superman and Lex Luthor! Collects Conjurors #1-3, Flashpoint (1999) #1-3, Superman and Batman: World’s Funnest #1, JLA: Created Equal #1-2, and Green Lantern: 1001 Emerald Nights #1.

BATMAN VOL. 2 I AM SUICIDE (2024 EDITION)
Written by TOM KING
Art by MITCH GERADS and HUGO PETRUS
Cover by MIKEL JÁNIN
$16.99 US | 168 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-77952-789-9
ON SALE 10/29/24
Batman’s methods have always been unorthodox…but this? This is suicide! In order to retrieve Psycho-Pirate and save Gotham Girl, Batman must recruit a team from Amanda Waller to break into the most impenetrable prison in the world and steal from one of the Dark Knight’s greatest foes…Bane. The next great Batman story begins here! Collects Batman #9-15.

ROBIN: SON OF BATMAN BY PATRICK GLEASON: THE DELUXE EDITION

Written by PATRICK GLEASON and RAY FAWKES
Art by PATRICK GLEASON, SCOTT McDANIEL, MICK GRAY, and others
Cover by PATRICK GLEASON
$49.99 US | 352 pages | 7 1/16″ x 10 7/8″ | Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-77952-832-2
ON SALE 11/5/24
Damian Wayne died. But like most members of the al Ghul family, he didn’t stay dead.

Now that he’s back and done some soul-searching, Damian has decided he has a lot to make up for—but he won’t have to do it alone. With a young assassin named Nobody and a gargantuan dragon bat named Goliath in tow, Damian’s year of atonement will take him across the globe and reunite him with friends, foes, and his own complicated family as he seeks to prove to everyone—himself, especially—that he is a worthy member of the Bat-Family. This deluxe edition features a brand-new cover by writer/artist Patrick Gleason, development sketches, and tons more behind-the-scenes material! Collecting DC Sneak Peek: Robin: Son of Batman #1, and Robin: Son of Batman #1-13.

BATWOMAN: ELEGY (2024 EDITION)f
Written by GREG RUCKA
Art and cover by J.H. WILLIAMS III
$19.99 US | 192 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-77952-792-9
ON SALE 11/5/24
In these tales from Detective Comics #854-860, now back in print, Batwoman battles a madwoman known only as Alice, inspired by Alice in Wonderland, who sees her life as a fairy tale and everyone around her as expendable extras! Batwoman must stop Alice from unleashing a toxic death cloud over all of Gotham City, but Alice has more up her sleeve than just poison, and Batwoman’s life will never be the same again.

BATGIRL STEPHANIE BROWN VOL. 1
Written by BRYAN Q. MILLER
Art by LEE GARBETT and others
Cover by STANLEY “ARTGERM” LAU
$29.99 US | 296 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-77952-785-1
ON SALE 10/22/24
Stephanie Brown is Batgirl—and now she must learn to balance school and crime-fighting or face the wrath of Barbara Gordon! With guest appearances from Batman and Robin and villains like Man-Bat and Scarecrow, Batgirl steps up to the mantle! Plus, Batgirl must stop a nanovirus that will turn the citizens of Gotham City into mindless techno-zombies! Collects Batgirl #1-12.

BIRDS OF PREY MURDER AND MYSTERY (2024 EDITION)
Written by GAIL SIMONE
Art by ED BENES, CLIFF RICHARDS, and others
Cover by GREG LAND
$24.99 US | 296 pages | 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″ | Softcover | ISBN: 978-1-77952-786-8
ON SALE 10/22/24
In a tricky dilemma, the Birds of Prey must show mercy to a would-be white-collar criminal—but their act of compassion brings them to the attention of extortionist Savant, a man who claims he can outthink Oracle and outfight Black Canary! Plus, Black Canary is sent to China on a mission of mercy and runs into Lady Shiva! But Shiva has an agenda of her own, while making Canary an offer that could change the course of her life. Collects Birds of Prey #56-67.

The post September 2024 DC TBU Solicitations appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #1, readers return to the 19th-century world of Gotham by Gaslight. Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #1 main cover by Leandro Fernandez

Title: Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #1 Writer: Andy Diggle
Artist: Leandro Fernandez
Colorist: Dave Stewart
Letterer: Simon Bowland
Cover: Leandro Fernandez and Dave Stewart
Variant Cover Artists: Francesco Mattina, Kendrick “Kunkka” Lim, Jock
Release Date: June 11, 2024

This comic book review contains spoiler.

The StoryThe year is 1860. The place is the Kansa Tribal Territory, a Native American territory a year before Kansas was officiated into the Union. A kindly couple: Jonathan and Martha Kent, arrive in a horse and buggy from the smoke-and-soot-filled city. Right as their horse Pegasus is nearing his last leg, a meteor comes hurling out of the sky and lands in a fiery pit just a few meters away, destroying their carriage and killing the horse. Martha notices that the crater contains a pyramidal vessel emitting a green radiance. A little ways off, a group of Natives sees the emerald glow fill the sky.

The year is 1893. The place is Gotham City. Selina Kyle heads to an evening Gala, but not before making a pit stop in a Narrows alleyway. She comes across a homeless woman with a child and presents her with several silver dollars and a calling card inscribed: “Felix Home for Destitute Women.” Deeper into the alley, Selina encounters a group of scarlet women surrounding a small fire. One of the women wears a black-eye given to her by a dirty Gotham cop. Selena vows to take revenge and asks if any of them have seen their ‘nocturnal visitor.’ They haven’t, and the injured woman speculates that he might be dead. Selina has her doubts.

At the Gotham Museum Gala entitled: The Kryptonian Age, Kyle arrives and asks to be introduced as “Lady” Selina Kyle. She is immediately confronted by a snooty aristocrat and her weak-willed husband for providing charity to women of “ill repute.” Kyle feigns grief and requests that the host show her to his private office. Once alone, Kyle opens a window and lets in her buggy driver: Holly (presumably a 19th century cockney version of Holly Robinson) to take her place at the Gala while Kyle changes into her own feline jumpsuit. While Gotham socialite and Bruce Wayne fiancée Julie Madison speaks about industrial progress at the turn of the century, Selina sneaks into the Kryptonian Age exhibit and purloins a luminescent emerald ring.

Selina takes the ring to a couple of buyers at the Gotham docks who look suspiciously like dollar-store versions of Mad Hatter and the Penguin. They’re soon murdered though, along with the rest of their crew when a gang of bow & arrow-wielding assassins appear in pursuit of the ring. The leader discovers the ring is actually a forgery when the “Bat-Man” suddenly appears and engages in a fight with the gang. The fight escalates to the top of an elevated passenger train. When it finally comes down to mano-a-mano, the group leader reveals herself to be the one and only: Talia al Ghul.

The Kryptonian Age crash-lands! (Credit: DC Comics)

It has been 35 years since the original Gotham by Gaslight hit comic shelves, and while there have been a few brief revivals as well as a 2018 animated movie, it remains one of the most discussed but least iterated Elseworld stories. That’s something writer Andy Diggle, artist Leandro Fernandez, and colorist Dave Stewart seek to change with their newest take on the classic setup featuring hints not only at a wider array of Batman characters, but also the DC universe at large. The first issue of the Kryptonian Age strikes a nice balance between the original ‘89 and ‘91 stories, which largely showed restraint in utilizing Batman universe characters outside of Wayne and Gordon, and the animated adaptation which took a decidedly more fan-service based approach by filling its cast with familiar faces in Victorian era dress-up.

Here, Andy Diggle gives readers the best of both worlds by slowly reintroducing us to a fully realized Victorian era Gotham while also showing us fan-favorite characters such as Catwoman and the League of Shadows. As the title indicates, they even hint at a future Superman appearance. Diggle imbues this issue with a perspicacious gravitas by opening with an abbreviated excerpt of Walt Whitman’s poem “Year of Meteors (1859-60)” and giving the characters intelligent period-accurate dialogue (get your dictionary ready for this issue).

Selina Kyle takes center stage in part one, and Diggle has her character adopt a socially progressive attitude when it comes to what are termed here as “destitute women,” even to the point of being scorned by the high-society types later on. This Robin Hood-demeanor is obviously in-line with her character and provides some nice historical insight into the social mores of the time. Perhaps our attitudes today don’t vary that much from those of 130 years ago. Maybe we’re just better at hiding it. The story is perfectly paced, with a patient and moody reintroduction to the world in the first 25 pages leading to a sudden burst of action when the Batman of Gaslight finally appears.

Leandro Fernandez’s art and Dave Stewart’s colors are truly stunning. From the expanses of the western frontier in future Kansas, to the grime of the forever corrupted Gotham City streets, the pair creates a fully-realized world that not only builds upon what has come before, but exceeds it with flying colors. The theme of class disparity is hammered home by the dripping ugly alleyways contrasted with the pristine starkness of the museum Gala. In a bout of paradoxical ingenuity, Fernandez positions the panels of the ‘destitute’ from below so that we are looking up at them into a skyline polluted with ugly metallic structures and smokestacks. Conversely, at the Gala we are looking down at the prim and proper suits and dresses that mask an inner ugliness in the Gotham upper class.

Review: Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #1Final ThoughtsAll in all, this is a brilliant opening issue that shows the creative team’s skill in not only making an entertaining comic, but also intelligently exploring ideas about wealth, industry, and power. Not to mention some of the best art we’ve ever seen in an Elseworlds story. Do not miss this one. 5Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #1 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Jaymee, Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller), bring you Season 16 Episode 11 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Reviews: Batman #148 and Batman & Robin #10.

Greater Gotham covers Poison Ivy #23, Birds of Prey #10, The Boy Wonder #2, Red Hood: The Hill #5, Outsiders #8, Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – The Kryptonian Age #1, Wayne Family Adventures Mini Episodes 1 and 2, “Break Time” and “Third Time’s the Charm”. What literal catfight starts in Victorian-era Gotham? And what is most exciting about the return of Wayne Family Adventures? These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at tbu@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on twitter, or on our Discord server!

Missed an episode? You can find this episode and all of our episodes wherever you find your favorite podcasts, on YouTube, and here at TheBatmanUniverse.net!

The post The Batman Universe Comic Podcast Season 16, Episode 11 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this TBU Specials episode, Ian does a recap of C2E2 2024, running through the various comic artists and writers he met. A special focus, of course, on the Batman writers, artists, letterers, and editors, as well as a short shoutout to some fan projects in the area!

As always, you can find all of our past episodes here at the The Batman Universe. We’re also available on Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, and now on Threads.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebatmanuniverse
Twitter/X: @BatmanUniverse
Instagram: @thebatmanuniverse
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Discord: https://discord.gg/sKZncrm

The post TBU Specials: Recap of C2E2 2024 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Back in 2009, Paul Dini and Guillem March brought a new team to Gotham City. Gotham City Sirens, which included Catwoman, Poison Ivy, and Harley Quinn provided great stories with exquisite art. Today (May 9th), DC Comics announced that the team will be re-uniting in a one-month event during the month of August. Gotham City Sirens will be written by Leah Williams with a host of artists over the 4-issue weekly event.

From the press release:

The Gotham City Sirens are back!For the month of August, DC’s Catwoman, Harley Quinn, and Poison Ivy ongoing comic book series will pause while a new four-issue Gotham City Sirens series connects the characters for an incredible monthlong adventure! It’s been over a decade since Gotham City’s most notorious female criminals converged as the Sirens, and in August 2024 they don’t care which side of the law they’re on! After Gotham City Sirens concludes, all three titular characters’ series will return in September with ongoing numbering.

In Gotham City Sirens by Leah Williams (DC’s Power Girl; Marvel’s X-Factor), Matteo Lolli (DC’s Harley Quinn; Marvel’s Deadpool), Daniel Hillyard (Image’s Plush, Vinyl, Plastic), and Brandt & Stein (DC’s Harley Quinn: Black + White + Redder;Marvel’s The Mighty Captain Marvel),a violent and highly illegal energy drink-sponsored hunting operation kicks off the action, threatening the lives of wildlife and the residents of Gotham City alike, and the only ones fit to save the day are the criminal trio of Catwoman, Poison Ivy, and Harley Quinn! They’re back together as a team and ready for action…for the first time in years!

Gotham City Sirens will have special appearances by White Rabbit and Punchline and introduce the cowboy-henchmen sensation soon to be sweeping the nation known as the Nasty Boys! Get your chaps, spurs, and hats out, ’cause its wild west himbo-hunting season for the Gotham City Sirens!

The main covers will all be drawn by Guillem March. who drew the original series and will connect into one panoramic image.

Gotham City Sirens #1-4 connecting variant covers by original series artist Guillem March (Credit: DC Comics)

Check out the info below on each of the four issues, including covers courtesy of DC Comics:

Prev1of4NextGotham City Sirens #1, on sale August 7, is written by Leah Williams with art by Matteo Lolli, Triona Farrell (colors), and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou (letters). Main cover is by Terry Dodson with variant covers by W. Scott Forbes, Guillem March, and Jeehyung Lee. Guillem March’s cover will be offered as an open-to-order foil variant along with a 1:25 variant cover by Ben Harvey.

Preview page of Gotham City Sirens #1 (Credit: DC Comics)

The Nasty Boys, the new bad boys in town (DC Comics)

Prev1of5NextGotham City Sirens #2, on sale August 14, is written by Leah Williams with art by Daniel Hillyard, Triona Farrell (colors), and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou (letters). Main cover is by Terry Dodson with variant covers by W. Scott Forbes, Guillem March, and Jeehyung Lee. Guillem March’s cover will be offered as an open-to-order foil variant along with a 1:25 variant cover by Daniel Hillyard.

Prev1of4NextGotham City Sirens #3, on sale August 21, is written by Leah Williams with art by Matteo Lolli, Triona Farrell (colors), and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou (letters). Main cover is by Terry Dodson with variant covers by W. Scott Forbes, Guillem March, and Jeehyung Lee. Guillem March’s cover will be offered as an open-to-order foil variant along with a 1:25 variant cover by Natacha Bustos.

Prev1of4NextGotham City Sirens #4, on sale August 28, is written by Leah Williams with art by Daniel Hillyard, Brandt & Stein, Triona Farrell (colors), and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou (letters). Main cover is by Terry Dodson with variant covers by W. Scott Forbes, Guillem March, and Jeehyung Lee. Guillem March’s cover will be offered as an open-to-order foil variant along with a 1:25 variant cover by Tirso.

Stay tuned here at The Batman Universe for all of your news and reviews in the world of Batman.

The post Catwoman, Harley Quinn, and Poison Ivy Reunite in a Gotham City Sirens Event appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In Poison Ivy #22, the creative team delivers a book that is light on story and heavy on action, culminating in one big battle royale between Ivy and Jason Woodrue. Poison Ivy #22 by G. Willow Wilson, Haining & Arif Prianto. Cover by Jessica Fong.

Title: Poison Ivy #22 Writer: G. Willow Wilson
Artist: Haining
Colors: Arif Prianto
Letters: Hassan Otsamne-Elhaou
Main Cover: Jessica Fong
Variant Cover Artists: Frank Cho, Sabine Rich, R. Kikuo Johnson, Elizabeth Taroque
Release Date: May 7, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers

The StoryIn this issue, Poison Ivy, Killer Croc, Solomon Grundy, and Janet from HR face off against a mutated Jason Woodrue. In the midst of the conflict, Woodrue summons all the labia-infected human zombies to attack the others. Ivy uses her powers to mutate into an “OP” plant creature herself as Janet, Grundy, and Croc take shelter in their hunting shack. Ultimately, Ivy attempts some form of self-sacrifice, hoping that she’ll talk down Woodrue along with herself. My guess is, we’ll be seeing them both again soon.

AnalysisSome people like comics that are just 22 pages of one extended action scene, and that’s what we get here. For me, this is even more uninteresting than Ivy’s disappointing origin story arc we just resolved in Poison Ivy #21. This entire conflict still hinges on the fact that Ivy and Woodrue previously had a relationship together despite Woodrue being given no depth in this entire run. He’s a pure-evil mustache-twirling villain, and the fact that he’s still referring to his plan as a science “experiment” is absurd. What is the experiment now? What will happen if Ivy wipes out all human life?

At times, G. Willow Wilson seems to show a self awareness of the ludicrous nature of this dynamic such as in Ivy’s line: “it’s difficult after having spent your young adult life idolizing someone, to realize that beneath the genetically altered plant-hybrid zombie lord is a complete loser.” It’s a funny line, sure, but it also undermines Ivy’s intelligence in the entire last arc of this run. At this point, it feels like nobody in this series is acting rationally or comprehensively; it’s just a plant-fueled kaiju fight. And a subpar one at that.

The few moments we get with Killer Croc, Janet from HR, and Solomon Grundy are just padding to meet the page requirement. That storyline has had no interesting developments in months, and this issue is no exception. If this series is to keep going, it is in need of a major reset. The cliffhanger at the end indicates, we’re still going to be milking this Woodrue labia storyline for at least another few issues. But after the sporadically interesting origin story detour, the main story feels more than ever like it’s run out of steam. To say this issue could’ve been an email is an understatement, it could have been a subject line: Ivy vs. Woodrue. And we won’t even know the outcome for a whole other month.

Poison Ivy #22 by G. Willow Wilson, Haining & Arif Prianto. Cover by Jessica Fong. (Image courtesy of DC Comics.)

The ArtMarcio Takara’s absence is noticeable here. Haining does a decent enough job approximating Takara’s style, to where the change is not immediately noticeable from the opening pages. As the issue goes on, however, one may start to notice a dip from Takara’s innovative page layouts and character subtitles that have served to elevate weaker issues in the past. There are times, such as when Ivy spreads herself out along the “mycelium network,” that it’s hard to tell what is even happening without Takara’s psychedelic artwork to distract us. This is true of the issue’s climax as well.

To be fair, Arif Prianto and even Hassan Otsamne-Elhaou do what they can to bridge that gap with their usual vibrant colors and unique speech bubbles. At the end of the day, this is still a decent-looking issue despite the decline in quality from recent months.

Review: Poison Ivy #22Final ThoughtsThis issue moves the story forward in only the most incremental way possible. It’s essentially a glorified plant zombie kaiju fight and not a particularly good one. I think this series is in need of a major overhaul. 1Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Poison Ivy #22 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Mondo has released details for their latest The Batman: The Animated Series action figure. This new Mask of the Phantasm figure is in 1:6 scale and comes with many interchangeable portraits and hands. It measures 12 inches tall. The Bane Statue is priced at $189.99 and is expected to ship September 2024. You can pre-order yours at Entertainment Earth’s website now.

Pre-order the Batman: The Animated Series Mask of the Phantasm 1:6 Scale Action Figure here.

Batman: The Animated Series Mask of the Phantasm 1:6 Scale Action Figure:

Mondo is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Mask of the Phantasm with the latest addition to their Batman: The Animates Series 1:6 scale line…the Phantasm herself!

Released after the surprising success of Batman: The Animated Series Season 1, the cult classic 1993 movie introduced a fan-favorite DC characters… Andrea Beaumont aka The Phantasm. Made of PVC/ABS and standing 12-inches tall, this highly detailed and fully articualted figure will look great in your 1:6 scale collection alongside Batman and The Joker (sold separately).

The Batman: The Animated Series Mask of the Phantasm 1:6 Scale Action Figure includes:
– Phantasm figure
– Swappable hood
– Swappable Attack Blade & Acid Attack Blade
– Left Phantasm fist
– Left Aggressive hand
– Left neutral hand
– Smoke attack left hand
– Bat symbol figure stand

The post Preview: Batman-The Animated Series – Mask of the Phantasm 1:6 Scale Action Figure appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Batman #147, Bruce escapes prison and plans for his assault on Zur En Arrh. But he can’t do it alone.Batman #147 main cover by Jorge Jiménez (Credit: DC Comics)

Batman #147Writer: Chip Zdarsky
Artist: Jorge Jiménez
Color Artist: Tomeu Morey
Cover Artist: Jorge Jiménez
Variant Covers: Yasmine Putri, Jorge Jiménez, Kendrik “Kukka” Lim, Stevan Subic, John Giang
Release Date: May 7, 2024

This review contains spoilers

Zur-En-Arrh is in the Failsafe Batsuit and is chatting with Robin. Zur is listening in on any/every electronic device in Gotham. Elsewhere, the newly installed Commissioner of the Gotham City Police Department, Vandal Savage, is addressing a crowd of reports and onlookers. An assailant raises a pistol and fires a shot but Zur swoops down and blocks the shot. He then apprehends the perpetrator, noting that the latter most recently worked for Catwoman. Zur then taunts Savage with a return to prison, who returns the challenge.

In Gamorra, Amanda Waller is monitoring the situation.

In Rhode Island, Bruce is driving to a family cabin, hoping that Zur won’t think of the cabin nor realize Bruce’s plans. Bruce makes a stop at a former headquarters of Justice League. He reminisces about an encounter with Flash in which Barry reminded him of the need to let others help.

Back at Blackgate, Zur meets with Daniel Captio, who points out that Batman has escaped and charges Zur with underestimating him. Zur is unconcerned.

Amanda Waller’s agents infiltrate the location where they expect Batman to be. Robin is waiting for them and takes them out. Zur crashes the location at which Ms. Waller is directing the operation, along with Clock King. Waller and Zur banter. Zur leaves Waller with a warning.

At the Wayne cabin, Bruce unpacks his haul from the Justice League headquarters and flashes back to a time when he tried to teach Tim archery. He reflects on the fact that Dick’s acrobatics background made the transition to Robin far easier than for Tim, who had to work for everything.

In the Batcave, Zur explains his plans to Robin, which involve Amazo bots impregnated with the consciousnesses of different Zur-en-Arhhs from across the multiverse. Robin suddenly realizes what Zur has done, grows enraged and attacks Zur, demanding to know what Zur has done with his father.

Zur easily evades and immobilizes Robin, remarking that he can only trust a Robin he has made himself. He then reveals his own Robin – either a bot Robin, a Zur-En-Arrh Robin, or both (?).

At the Wayne cabin, Bruce hears a noise and goes out to investigate. It’s Tim! Bruce is happy to see him and they talk over dinner and washing up. Bruce acknowledges that his fears for the Bat-Family and what Zur might do to them caused him to isolate himself.

Tim reminds Bruce that each and every member of the Bat-Family chose that life and that Bruce can neither stop nor hold himself accountable for loss and death of his friends and loved ones. He tells Bruce the key is to live by helping each other. Bruce dons the Batsuit and closes by fiercely remarking that the Bat-Family is his strength.

Analysis:

Well! After the setup issue in #146, it is great to see the narrative really accelerate in #147. Zur is moving forward rapidly with his own plans, Robin finally realizes the imposture, and Bruce snaps out of his mournful and lonely reverie, with help from Tim. There’s a lot to talk about here, so let’s get to it!

First, I should say I’m not a huge fan of the Zur-en-Arrh arc in particular. I’m not quite sure I understand Zur and his motivations, although it’s not that clear any of the titular characters do, either. Enter Amanda Waller, operating here almost as the chorus in a Greek tragedy, working to explain Zur to herself and to the audience as swell. Although I remain confused, the good news is that the plot accelerates to the point where such understanding is not fully necessary to apprehend the set pieces and their movements.

Second, the theme that arguably underpins this book is “Robins.” Zdarsky creates an ironic reversal: One “Batman” (Zur) reveals himself to a Robin that results in entrapment while a different Robin reveals himself to a second Batman that results in freedom. This reversal works especially because what unites both Robins is their fierce love and loyalty to Batman himself, creating a deeper dramatic irony through which Damian is freed via his own capture.

Third, like many Batman fans, I was vexed with writer Chip Zdarsky reaching for the “conflict with the Bat-Family” rhetorical device. It’s personally not a favorite of mine and especially because I struggled to understand Zur-en-Arrh anyway, had little real sense of precisely why and how Batman (yet again) felt compelled to separate himself from the Bat-Family. Neither the audience nor Batman himself could credibly be charged with a reasonable belief that he is better off alone, so without adequate depth and explanation, this reader did not find the latest incarnation of the motif plausible.

Precisely because I have not been enjoying the prolongation of the conflict, it is lovely to see Bruce finally “get it,” even if I’m unsure of why he had forgotten it to begin with. The final panels that feature the conversation with Tim feature great emotional resonance, especially when juxtaposed with the heartbreaking rendering of Bruce alone in the former Justice League headquarters, slumped over a desk as he remembers that fundamental insight: Even Batman is better with his family.

In that Justice League image, artist Jorge Jiménez’s powerful representation of Bruce’s exhaustion and grief is saturated in colorist Tomeu Morey’s red overtones that made this reader think of kryptonite, made more plausible by the presence of Superman in Batman #146. Batman’s chosen alienation from his friends and allies is nothing if not his own personal kryptonite. The conversation with bright, warm, Tim (my favorite Robin!) in the bright, warm cabin features Zdarsky at his best. The dialogue is simple, straightforward, and genuine. The message is clear and important and it is difficult not to feel one’s heart lift when Batman finally realizes his most grievous mistake, dons cape and cowl, and prepares to right his wrongs, for himself, the Bat-Family, and all of Gotham.

There remains opaque threads: Why is Vandal Savage the Commissioner? What is Daniel Captio’s ultimate role? What exactly did Robin realize that made him finally turn on Zur? (I still don’t get it).

Still, Dark Prisons: Part Three finally propels the narrative forward and gives us the beginning of a reconnection with the Bat-Family for which so many readers have been waiting.

Backup: Show the World
Writer: Chip Zdarsky
Artist: Miguel Mendonça
Color Artist: Eren Angiolini

Synopsis

Riddler and Two-Face are bantering from their adjacent prison cells. A bot informs Riddler that Warden Captio wants to speak with him and Riddler heads to the yard. Captio is taping his hands and begins battering several other inmates including Zsasz (armed with knives, no less). Captio baits him, asking Riddler why, given his intelligence, he isn’t already a billionaire. Riddler grows angry and starts ranting about Batman.

In the process, he insults one of the combatants, who turns on Riddler and begins to pummel him. Captio instructs Riddler, suggesting that Riddler holds himself back so that he can continue to show the extent of his skills against Batman. As Captio is speaking, Riddler gains the upper hand against his assailant and proceeds to strangle him. Riddler then tells Captio he is just as obsessed with Batman as any Rogue. Captio disagrees and as they leave the yard indicates that he wants to help the inmates as well as Batman by unconventional means, halting in front of a giant contraption inside the prison. Riddler looks stunned.

Analysis

Unlike many of the backups, this one seems to converge with the storyline in the main book. Zdarsky gives the audience some hints as to Captio’s true motivations while integrating Riddler into the possible plot. The story here raises more questions than it answers, but at least it represents a commitment to explaining (eventually) Captio’s function in the broader arc.

Final Thoughts:

Although I have not really enjoyed the Zur En Arrh narrative, Batman #147 does better than many of its more recent predecessors, marking some key emotional moments and advancing the narrative. Plus, Tim!

Review: Batman #147Final ThoughtsAlthough I have not really enjoyed the Zur En Arrh narrative, Batman #147 does better than many of its more recent predecessors, marking some key emotional moments and advancing the narrative. Plus, Tim!StoryArtColors4Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Batman #147 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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It’s hard to imagine a DC Universe story more influential than Crisis on Infinite Earths. The 1985 event reshaped DC continuity, ushering the company into a new era of storytelling. The crossover was adapted as a live-action television event in 2019-2010, and it’s currently being adapted as a trilogy of animated films (Part One and Part Two are already released). When people talk about DC history, the terms Pre-Crisis and Post-Crisis are regularly used.

As you can see, Crisis on Infinite Earths is a pretty big deal.

During a spotlight panel at WonderCon 2024, Crisis on Infinite Earths writer Marv Wolfman revealed the genesis of the story. The crossover that changed the DC Universe forever was the result of a single letter a fan wrote to Green Lantern in 1981. “I was writing the letter column for Green Lantern, which was one of the many books I was writing at the time. A fan wrote in saying he didn’t understand DC continuity,” Wolfman said. This line drew chuckles from the crowd. If that 1981 letter writer thought things were complicated then, I can only imagine what they would think about 2024.

Crisis on Infinite Earths #1 (Image Credit: DC Comics)

“DC sales at that particular time were not very good” Wolfman continued. “Marvel was outselling them at something like four to one. We needed to do something because DC has many great characters, but they just weren’t getting out there. They weren’t being done correctly. We were heading to a convention in Pennsylvania, and I’m very deadline conscious. I got to Penn Station to take the train down an hour before we had to leave, and the other people were a little late. I’m sitting there waiting for everyone else to show up so we can take the train to Pennsylvania, and I started thinking about that letter, and how do we fix the continuity. I had an hour before anything else showed up, and I worked out pretty much the entire concept of what Crisis would be, and the storyline, and how it would work.”

“I talked to Jenette Kahn the following Monday, who was the president and publisher. She loved the idea because we needed something big. We needed to make a real statement that DC was changing and we’re doing different types of material. It’s no longer the Superman of the 1950s, it’s now 1985,” Wolfman said.

The next step was finding an artist. Wolfman’s first choice was George Perez, his collaborator on the best-selling series New Teen Titans. Unfortunately, George was busy. “I pitched it to George, and George was so busy doing other stuff, because he wanted to do Wonder Woman and things like that. But every time we got together on a Titans story, he would say, how’s your project coming? I would tell him, and then finally, he went, ‘Okay, I can’t stand this. Do you have an artist?’ So, I said, ‘No.’ He said, ‘Can I do it?’ I said, ‘Are you joking? Yes, yes, a million times, yes, you’re the only person who could do this! I’ve been waiting.’ That’s how it started.”

Looking at the legacy of Crisis on Infinite Earths, it’s amazing to think about how it all happened. How different would the DC Universe be if that fan had never written into Green Lantern? Would Crisis have happened if Marv Wolfman hadn’t shown up to Penn Station an hour early? Would Crisis even be Crisis without George Perez’s stunning artwork?

When Warner Bros. Animation releases Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths – Part Three, remember that all of this happened, because a fan wrote a letter.

The post Marv Wolfman Reveals How One 1981 Fan Letter Changed the DC Universe Forever appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this preview of Poison Ivy #22, the end times are upon Pamela Isley. The rotten seeds she has sown across America have come home to roost, and her greatest enemy has torn himself from her flesh. With the verdant villainess on death’s door, is there any hope…for the rest of the world, or has the reign of Dr. Jason Woodrue, the Floronic Man, begun?

PART 1 of 3 of THE EXPLOSIVE CLIMAX OF YEAR TWO OF POISON IVY!

Enjoy this preview of Poison Ivy #22, provided by: DC Comics. And check back here at The Batman Universe later this week to see our review of the issue.

Poison Ivy #22
Written by: G. Willow Wilson
Art by: Marcio Takara
Cover by: Jessica Fong
Variant cover by: Frank Cho, R. Kikuo Johnson, and Elizabeth Torque
Page Count: 32
Release Date: 5/7/24

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In this preview of The Boy Wonder #1, the young prince Damian Wayne was raised to be the heir to the fearsome League of Assassins—to follow in the footsteps of his deadly mother, Talia, and the Demon’s Head himself, his grandfather Ra’s al Ghul. But everything changed when his father, the Batman, reclaimed him and brought him back to Gotham City. As Robin, young Damian suddenly discovered he was merely one of a number of princes, preceded in the role by his “brothers” Nightwing, Red Hood, and Red Robin…and Damian doesn’t care to be merely anything. But when his father is forced to leave the city on urgent business, and a rash of abductions is accompanied by whispers of a demon stalking Gotham’s dark alleys, Damian will find himself battling alongside his adoptive brothers—and in the process, learning what the mantle of Robin really means!

Visionary writer/artist Juni Ba makes his mark on the timeless story of Batman and Robin, synthesizing the characters’ complex history into an accessible and heartrending fairy tale!

Enjoy this preview of The Boy Wonder #1, provided by: DC Comics. And check back here at The Batman Universe later this week to see our review of the issue.

The Boy Wonder #1
Written by: Juni Ba
Art and Cover by: Juni Ba
Variant covers by: Cliff Chiang, Juni Ba
Page Count: 32
Release Date: 5/7/2024

Prev1of2NextEditor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with the preview images of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by pre-ordering this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

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In this review of the Nightwing 2024 Annual*, the origin story of Bea Bennett – who she really is and how she came to be – is finally revealed!Nightwing 2024 Annual
Written by: Travis Moore
Art by: Travis Moore
Cover by: Travis Moore
Variant cover by*: Francesco Mattina

This review contains spoilers

Synopsis:

Many years ago, nine-year-old Destiny Alston was out at sea with her mother Nicole, on their way to Nicole’s promotion for a corporation called Ascendek, when the boat suddenly explodes. Destiny is blown out of the boat, and her mother is presumed dead. Drifting for three days before being rescued, she escaped the hospital and wound up at a homeless encampment for the next four years. After the encampment is shut down to make way for an Ascendek warehouse, Destiny hijacks one of their company yachts and sails to to the site where her mother died, before the ship is boarded by the Crew of the Crossed Keys.

For the next five years, Destiny would be trained under the wardship of the Captain, who plans to make her his heir over his son. Destiny tells him that she hacked the Ascendek laptop she found in the yacht, revealing that her mother was assassinated by someone called “Revenant”. Determined to return to Blüdhaven and solve who was behind her mother’s murder, she goes to a local club and fights her way through a group of mafia men who may be in contact with Revenant. When a woman called Carmen Navarro appears and defeats her in combat, she leaves behind a calling card for St. Hadrians – the finishing school which is a front for the Spy outfit known as Spyral.

In the years that follow, Destiny becomes one of Spyral’s top agents, earning the codename Siren. She’s partnered with Lian Shan and carries out a number of high-level missions – one of which takes her to procure a counterfeit ancient artifact in Moscow. This artifact was engineered to receive transmission for LA Agente Funebre – the hitman organization Nightwing, Oracle and The Flash dismantled back in Nightwing #91. There, Siren battles her rival Ice Suwannarat – an agent of Checkmate. During the fight Ice blurts out that her Destiny’s mother was actually a member of Checkmate, explaining in part why she was assassinated. Afterwards, Carmen assigns her to keep tracks on the recently amnesiac Dick Grayson. a.k.a. Agent 37 a.k.a. Nightwing – now known as Ric Grayson. Over the next several months, Siren takes on the alias of Bea Bennett, gets close with Ric and begins to fall for him. During that time she checks in less and less with Spyral, eventually falling in love with Ric and forming a relationship with him. One morning she wakes up with Ric to find out that several of the world’s intelligence agencies had been wiped out, with Spyral presumed destroyed. Destiny took this opportunity to leave her spying days behind and commit herself to Ric. Unfortunately this was shortly before the Joker War in which Ric’s memories were further messed with by Talon, before being fully restored back to his Dick Grayson/Nightwing persona. After the KGBeast attacked and Nightwing defeated him, Destiny confronts him at Blüdhaven’s local prison for killing her mother. The Beast reveals that he indeed carried out the hit but that he’s not Revenant, and that Nicole was actually a member of Spyral, not Checkmate. Influenced by Dick’s commitment to justice over vengeance, Destiny reneges on killing the Beast.

Later, when Dick began his humanitarian efforts to restore Blüdhaven, Destiny is approached by Ice who warns her that the hit on Dick is actually a front to assassinate her. She’s then shot by an assailant, who is revealed to be Carmen Navarro. Carmen claims that Nicole was her partner at Spyral and undercover at Checkmate. Navarro originally came from La Agente Funebre, which Nicole found out – prompting Carmen to assassinate her. After learning that Destiny survived the explosion, Carmen put her on the path that led her to Spyral. With Ice’s help, Destiny defeats Carmen in combat, resolving to leave her with the Crew of the Crossed Keys.

Soon after Destiny – now fully Bea Bennett – sees that Dick is in a relationship with Barbara Gordon, and resolves to move on her own. She returns to the Crew of the Crossed Keys as inheritance from the Quartermaster, but unbeknownst to her is being watched…by none other than her mother Nicole who is still alive!

Analysis:

This was a provocative read that challenged some presumptions going in, and ultimately had me falling down on the opinion that this was good but could’ve been much better.

We’ve got Travis Moore on scripting duties, although I’ve no doubt Tom Taylor would’ve had some story outline contributions. The whole issue feels like his idea, from bigging up Bea in giving her this fairly superheroic backstory to the humanitarian aspect of her not killing anyone or KGBeast especially. I find it hard to believe with her upbringing or lacktherof she didn’t kill anybody during her time at Spyral, so ensuring the reader that she didn’t feels a bit like Taylor’s making the characters too precious to be unsavory in any way.

But let’s talk about Bea. Right away her being revealed as this pirate captain was fairly polarizing for the readers back when it was first presented over a year ago. That she has this super-badass orphan/spy background is giving her quite a bit in the way of substance after the fact.

Now it’s important not to let racial or gender bias cloud the story here. Plenty of DC characters are shown to be uber-mega-badasses at the drop of a hat, and historically people have always had trouble when people of color or women are presented as adept and infallible as men or white men. So no matter how believable or unbelievable her history may seem on first rip, Bea can totally be a little girl who survived a boat explosion, escaped a hospital at age nine, hijacked a yacht at age thirteen, and become at a super-elite spy in her early twenties. That how genre fiction operates, people are simply as good as the story needs them to be. Speaking as a black reader, it’s always appreciable to see black characters written to be strong and smart on their own. At the same time, there is a lot of telling and not showing when backfilling Bea’s history. The fact that we were introduced to her as a normal person operated on two fronts: it made the world of Blüdhaven and Gotham and DC at large feel like normal people actually existed and it helped diversify a mostly white universe. That she’s since been revealed to have this crazy history isn’t unlikely, but on pure writing terms reads as somewhat problematic to my mind, because much of it is so expository that it moves too fast for us to sit with and reconcile. I’ve written before how Taylor writes Bea as completely different after the big pirate reveal than before, which I suppose works in her favor now since “Bea Bennett” was never real. However, I think I can speak to much of the readership in saying that the kind of character she was in the Ric era was fairly refreshing since these heroes hardly have any personal life to speak of these days. There’s a real “Oh…she’s a pirate now.” reaction to the Bea of today that just hasn’t been terrifically accommodated to, and this annual only further complicates things. We’re now asked to essentially erase our understanding that that character ever existed in favor of a much more traditional – and in my opinion, blander – character archetype.

But let’s be clear about this: Bea can totally be a super secret pirate spy all along. That in of itself is not verboten in the world of superhero fiction. I think the true problem is in the writing. There is so much exposition and reveals in this story, that every revelation feels tacked on and shallow. She’s not only an orphan, her mom exploded in a boat hit! And then she escaped from the hospital! Then she lived at a homeless encampment, where she tells us in a single caption that the people there were like her family. We don’t see a single panel of this (so we don’t care), but she says as much (so we’re meant to care). Then she – a thirteen year old girl – hijacks and commandeers a yacht belonging to the CEO of a corporation tied with the mafia. She’s found by pirates, and instead of being ransomed or killed, she’s adopted and made the heir of their leader. Then she’s invited to join a spy circuit where she quickly becomes one of their top agents. All this is because her mother was an gents for Spyral – NO! Her mom was working for Checkmate, no wait, was it Spyral and she was only undercover for Checkmate? Oh wait! Her mom is still alive!

Even for an annual, there is way too much page space for me to take all of this for granted and be invested in it. Telling and not showing is the best way to have someone not care when major events happen in a story. Because this is all her backstory, and not effectively written to be emotionally understood, it reads as hollow, powered by a “Wouldn’t it be cool if..?” approach instead of telling an emotional story. And the investment into her mother -whom we only see for a couple of panels before she’s presumed dead until the end – is put upon the reader to have instead of earned.

So ultimately this story reads more like a point of interest for the writers rather than an effort to engage the readers. I don’t really care about Bea, definitely less than I had before, because what is her purpose exactly? She seemingly avenged her mother’s death, but her Mom’s alive, so…who cares? And the cliffhanger of her Mom being alive is about her, and not Nightwing, so I can’t picture how this would be exciting for anyone unless the were charmed by this entire story.

To reiterate, the events in themselves aren’t bad for this kind of book. It’s just not convincingly rendered to be engaging. I wish I could care about Bea more than I can, but that’s not earned in the space of this annual.

Nightwing 2024 AnnualFinal ThoughtsTo reiterate, the events in themselves aren't bad for this kind of book. It's just not convincingly rendered to be engaging. I wish I could care about Bea more than I can, but that's not earned in the space of this annual.2.5Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Nightwing Annual 2024 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Funko has released details for their latest Batman: War Zone figure, Spoiler. This new Spoiler figure is a Pop! Vinyl Figure, #505. She measured about 4.25″ tall. Spoiler is priced at $11.99 and is expected to ship June 2024. You can pre-order yours at Entertainment Earth’s website now.

Pre-order the Batman War Zone Spoiler Funko Pop! here.

Batman War Zone Spoiler Funko Pop! Vinyl Figure #505:

Spread your wings and welcome a new member to the Batman Family. Spoiler, also known as Stephanie Brown, emerges from the shadows of Gotham City to bring criminals to justice in your Batman War Zone set. Featuring her masked suit, Spoiler is ready for action. This Batman War Zone Spoiler Funko Pop! Vinyl Figure #505 measures approximately 4 1/2-inches tall and comes packaged in a window display box. Team up with Spoiler for your next duel and add her to your Funko Pop! collection!

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Mattel has released details for the Batman UNO Card Game. This new game is a fun take on an age old favorite game. The Batman UNO cards is priced at $6.99 and is expected to ship July 2024. You can pre-order yours at Entertainment Earth’s website now.

Pre-order the Batman UNO here.

Enjoy your next game night with the Batman Uno Card Game! With a deck featuring graphics inspired by caped crusader, players try to match colors and numbers. When you’re down to the last card in your hand, don’t forget to yell “UNO”! Perfect for 2-10 players, ages 7 years and up. Includes 112x cards and instructions.

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In the trade paperback review of Batman: The Winning Card we relive the events from the pages of Batman: The Brave and the Bold #s 1-2, 5 & 9.###### This Review Contains Spoilers

Batman: The Winning Card (Batman: The Brave and the Bold, Vol. 1)
Writer: Tom King
Artist: Mitch Gerads
Colors: Mitch Gerads
Letterer: Clayton Cowles
Main Cover: Mitch Gerads
Synopsis: A Year One story exploring the Batman and Joker relationship that honors the legacy of comics and TV that have come before.

Review: Batman the Winning Card is the latest entry from superstar comic duo Tom King and Mitch Gerads. Many fans, including myself, are probably familiar with their previous work on Sheriff of Babylon and Mister Miracle. The latest project from the duo features a kind of retelling of the first meeting of Batman and Joker in Year One. Joker’s schemes in the plot of this story draws from the earliest appearances of the character in comics and in TV. He has threatened to murder a rich man and steal a diamond. As the police mobilize the bulk of their resources to help the rich man, an average Joe cannot obtain police help to locate his lost daughter. The child has the misfortune of running into the Joker himself.

The visual technique Gerads, Clayton Cowles and King use to introduce the Joker in this story is one that is unique and also befitting of the character. They elect to use panels that look like black cards with the dialogue written on them; similar to the ones used in very old, silent films. Not seeing the Joker but knowing he’s speaking heightens a sense of foreboding in the reader. The transition from the regular panels to the pure darkness of the dialogue card plays on the Joker being a force of evil or a void of light. The writing looking like writing on a chalkboard conjures that dry, rasping noise his voice likely sounds like. This technique is utilized consistently across the four chapters of this story. Furthermore, the dialogue of the Joker on these cards is often reminiscent of the Joker’s “multiple choice” stories in the film The Dark Knight. He tells these stories or jokes that may or may not be true. This keeps the reader off balance and guessing, which also increases the level of fear. I also want to praise Gerads’ design for the character himself. When we first see the character with the old-fashioned tuxedo with the pants that are perhaps (intentionally) a bit too short, holding a balloon and sitting on a park bench in the rain, you can understand what would draw an innocent child to approach such a figure. The next panels we see his face, we see the face of someone who is truly demonic. The trademark perpetual, unnatural grin and eyes that are drawn as the inverse of the normal human eyes with tiny white points in a sea of darkness. This is a look I personally think works best for the character and it’s worth noting that it was done once before in the animated series in the late 90’s. It also plays off being the opposite of Batman’s eyes usually being depicted as a field of white due to the lenses in the cowl.

While the police fail to save the rich man and the Joker presumably kills the child and her father, Bruce has disappeared from a high class party to chase down a domestic abuser as Batman. This is the first time we see Batman in the story and he’s appropriately intimidating. Gerads’s design draws heavily from the Year One storyline. Batman moves on the fleeing, terrified criminal like an unstoppable shadow while the criminal screams obscenities and false justifications for his actions. Batman seems angry but also disappointed as he eventually casually knocks out the criminal. This interaction is worth keeping in mind and contrasting with the final confrontation with the Joker later in the story. Bruce returns to the party by joining a table with Brute Nelson. Gerads’ character design for Bruce is so obviously based on Jon Hamm as Don Draper in Mad Men that I’m surprised they don’t have to pay to use the likeness. Because this is the internet, I must clarify that last part is a joke and I do not wish for there to be any litigation against DC or the creative team. Gerads uses a cool technique in the party scene to show Bruce letting his alter ego slip through the party boy façade for a split second by using shadow to draw his eyes like Batman in one panel.

The second chapter starts the same way the first one does. Joker follows through on a threat to kill a person and the police are helpless. Only this time, Joker brutally kills and mutilates police officers as well. He leaves Gordon alive and Gordon recounts the incident to Batman. Batman decides to use his playboy Bruce persona to bait Brute Nelson into challenging the Joker. As Joker shows up to murder Brute, Batman is waiting. In this first encounter, Batman assumes the Joker is like other criminals. Joker quickly challenges this perception by jumping out a third story window despite being shot and injured. Batman is injured in the pursuit and Joker beats up an incapacitated Batman before dumping him off the side of a bridge into the water below.

The third chapter continues with Joker committing even more horrifying murders as Batman reluctantly recovers from his wounds. Alfred shines as a voice of reason in this chapter. However, his role also goes beyond that as he uses his secret service training to help Bruce learn to withstand more physical punishment without collapsing. We get a brief look into Alfred’s conflicted feelings on aiding Bruce’s crusade on crimes. As Joker makes a move to assassinate a judge by killing and impersonating the police commissioner, Gordon and Batman work together to parse the Joker’s latest threat. Batman solves it by “getting” the joke. As Joker flees the scene in a cop car, Batman is in pursuit in the Batmobile.

The final chapter of Batman: The Winning Card opens with Batman causing Joker to crash and pursuing on foot into a forest. As they fight, Batman recites all the names of Joker’s victims. Batman beats Joker up badly, but Joker stabs Batman in the stomach. Batman blacks out and awakens hours later. He finds the Joker also there slumped against the base of a tree. The splash page of them together and barely conscious brings to mind the scene of their final confrontation in Dark Knight Returns as well as more recently in Scott Snyder’s Batman run. Batman cuts comms with Alfred and proceeds to continue beating up the Joker. As the Joker laughs maniacally, Batman decides to tell a joke of his own. As Batman laughs maniacally at his own joke, Joker’s smile fades and he tells Batman that he is insane. Comparisons of this page and interaction with the end of Killing Joke will be inevitable. I also think it’s worth comparing this interaction with Batman’s interaction with the criminal in the first chapter. With the random criminal, Batman appears more distant and doesn’t really say anything. The criminal is the one who does all the talking and also expresses that he doesn’t understand Batman and Batman’s actions. With the Joker, Batman is talking more than the Joker is and telling jokes! In light of this, I don’t interpret Joker’s statement “you’re insane” to be a pejorative statement. Rather, I think Joker is recognizing that this is someone like him but also not like him. Alfred also alludes to this in a conversation with Bruce that takes place after the fight was over. As Batman visits Joker’s cell in Arkham, the two acknowledge the connection as well. The unwritten implication is that Batman’s code is the only thing separating him from Joker in terms of actions. This scene also brings to mind some of the dialogue of their interactions from The Dark Knight film.

Batman: The Winning Card is a very well executed story from a technical standpoint, especially with regard to the art. The only critique I really have is that it’s not a particularly original commentary on the Batman-Joker relationship. As I mentioned earlier, a lot of this has been done in the Killing Joke and other places. Your perception of this story might also be dependent on your perception of how that story went. If you are someone who thinks Batman is just as insane as the Joker but the insanity manifests outwardly in a different way, then I think you’ll love this story. For someone who sees the difference as being much greater or that Batman actually isn’t insane at all, you may have some issues with it but hopefully can still appreciate the technical execution. If you are a fan of Tom King or Tom King’s run on the Batman series (like me!), you will no doubt be comparing this story with that. I’m not sure he nailed the Batman voice 100% in this one. Even factoring in that this is a Year One story, some of the lines feel a bit clunky. This is a minor critique and I would still classify this book as well written overall. If you are a fan of great art and a story that goes into the Batman-Joker relationship in a way that honors comics and TV shows of the past, then this book is for you.

Final Thoughts

Batman: The Winning Card offers yet another take on the beginning of the Batman-Joker relationship. While it may not venture into new territory in terms of narrative, it does utilize some new visual techniques that all fans of the medium can appreciate. The various homages to stories of the past keep it firmly grounded in the tradition of Batman stories that have come before. This book stands alone on its own merit even if it doesn’t quite match the heights of King’s other work on the character.

Editor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with copies of the original issues of this series as they were released but not of this new edition. You can find this collected edition and help support TBU in the process by purchasing this edition digitally either for Comixology through* Amazon or as a physical copy in a hardcover form at Amazon or from Things from Another World.***

Batman: The Winning Card TPBFinal ThoughtsBatman The Winning Card offers yet another take on the beginning of the Batman-Joker relationship. While it may not venture into new territory in terms of narrative, it does utilize some new visual techniques that all fans of the medium can appreciate.StoryArt4Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post TBU Trade Paperback Review: Batman: The Winning Card appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of the Harley Quinn 2024 Annul #1*, a surprise vacation on a cruise ship leads to a murder mystery. The victim is Vandal Savage. The suspect is the sorceress Zatanna. Never fear, Harley Quinn is on the case.Harley Quinn 2024 Annual #1Cartoonist:* Erika Henderson
Covers: Erika Henderson
Release Date:** April 30, 2024

This review contains spoilers

The Story

The Harley Quinn 2024 Annual #1 begins as a normal heist leads to an abnormal take. Harley is rich but what to do with the loot? She decides to take a luxury cruise, unfortunately for her, Pam does not want to go with her. After several warnings about the dangers of cruises and a smooch. Harley boards the ship.

At first things are growing great but as the days tick by, Harley gets increasingly bored. When. Harley gets bored, she starts to sneak around. She eventually finds herself backstage of the cruise show and she rubles across the dressing room of Zatanna. Harley greets the magician who seems to ignore her then suddenly Zatanna jumps to life even offering to perform a card trick for her. This freaks Harley out and she leaves.

Back on deck, she stumbles across Zatanna lounging by the pool. Harley then realizes that Zatanna created a duplicate to perform the show so she could have a vacation. Unfortunately she has given her powers to the duplicate so she is in essence powerless.

Harley grabs Zatanna’s hand and takes her to the balcony of the show. The performer, “Zatanna” is throwing knives at a model. The lights go out and everyone hears the knives land. Zatanna is terrified that the model is killed but when the lights go back on the model is fine but a man is lying face down in front of the stage dead with a knife in his back. “Zatanna” was holding three knives. To land on the target, the third is lodged in this man’s back. “Zatanna” is taken into custody.

Zatanna and Harley sneak into the galley. They find the body while in a cold room. The man gets up, it is none other than Vandal Savage. The three divide to unite to find out who was trying to kill Vandal and clear Zatanna’s name.

Harley departs for a nice time on a cruise. (Image Credit: DC Comics)

On the investigation, the crew discover that the body is missing and the three are not where closer to solving the mystery. The three lounge by the pool and Harley complains that there are no tell-tale signs of who the killer is. Harley stands up and a knife plunges into the chair Harley was sitting in. Soon it is revealed that the knife thrower is Bronze Tiger. His target is Harley Quinn, herself. Savage attacks Tiger and knocks him out. This ends the deal and Zatanna attacks Savage with a stage trick. Suddenly Savage starts vomiting on deck. Harley covers Zatanna’s eyes. The real villain is Guy Mandrake and he can make his enemies violently vomit. Thanks to Poison Ivy, Harley is immune to him.

The two women run from Mandrake and his men. Unfortunately, Harley slips on some vomit and the two discover that everyone on the ship is sick. Harley however has a plan and she takes Zatanna to the brig. Harley stabs the fake Zatanna in the cell causing her to vanish and restoring Zatanna’s powers. She confronts the villains and causes them to vomit and have diarrhea.

Later the two women are in a cell themselves. They are released because there are now other suspects and no murder victims. As an apology the company would like to offer both of them a free cruise. Not what the two wanted to hear.

Analysis

This is a zany stank alone story. It really has no connection to the current Harley storyline and that is fine for this read. It is totally goofy, just the kind of story a Harley Quinn story should be.

There are a lot of plot twists throughout this story. The two Zatanna’s, the murder victim being the immortal Vandal Savage, the attack by Bronze Tiger and the final appearance of Guy Mandrake. I really did not know where the story was going to go and with the action all contained on the ship, a 40 page story was perfect.

The art is a little on the goofy side. It does have a slight anime or manga feel to it with the character’s large eyes and exaggerated expressions. I unfortunately have a hard time telling that the characters are Zatanna and Harley. Harley’s hair is up in two mouse ear knots on her head but you can tell that the tips are colored red and blue. Of course Zatanna is out of costume in this story but her face really does not look like Zatanna’s to me.

Final Thoughts

Despite the art choices being a little off putting in character design, I still appreciated it along with this fun and wacky story.

Harley Quinn 2024 Annual #1Final ThoughtsDespite the art choices being a little off putting in character design, I still appreciated it along with this fun and wacky story.StoryArtColors3.8Final ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Harley Quinn 2024 Annual #1 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this preview of Harley Quinn 2024 Annual: Toot toot! Ladies and germs, don’t you just hate it when you bust your butt left and right with no reward? Whether you’re devoted to a life of heroism, villainy, or regular-person-ism—everyone needs a break. Which is where the HARLEY QUINN 2024 ANNUAL comes in! 40 pages of luxurious luxury cruise-based comedy guaranteed to leave you feeling rested, relaxed, and READY TO FRICKING SOLVE A MARITIME MURDER MYSTERY. When Zatanna gets framed for a mystery on a cruise ship, ol’ Shamluck Harley is on the case!

Enjoy this preview of Harley Quinn 2024 Annual, provided by: DC Comics. And check back here at The Batman Universe later this week to see our review of the issue.

Harley Quinn 2024 Annual
Written by: Erica Henderson
Art by: Erica Henderson
Cover by: Erica Henderson
Variant covers by: Erica Henderson
Release Date: 4/30/2024
Page Count: 48
Release Date: 4/30/2024

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In this preview of Nightwing 2024 Annual, the secret origins of Bea Bennett! During Nightwing’s recent pirate adventure, we learned that Bea Bennett, Dick/Ric’s ex-girlfriend, is a pirate queen whose father, the Quartermaster, left her an entire pirate society! But what about her life before she became a pirate? Before she met Ric Grayson? Just what, and more importantly, who led her to where she is today. A backstory like no other with tales of betrayal, love, and independence.

Enjoy this preview of Nightwing 2024 Annual, provided by: DC Comics. And check back here at The Batman Universe later this week to see our review of the issue.

Nightwing 2024 Annual
Written by: Travis Moore
Art by: Travis Moore
Cover by: Travis Moore
Variant cover by: Francesco Mattina
Page Count: 48
Release Date: 4/30/2024

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In this review of Harley Quinn #39, Harley’s project to help the criminally insane in crime as well as provide some mental therapy finds Maxie Zeus. Unfortunately this new project draws the attention of Gotham PD and Robin.###### This review contains spoilers

Harley Quinn main cover by Sweeney Boo (Images courtesy of DC Comics)

Harley Quinn #39Writer: Tini Howard
Artist: Natasha Bustos
Color Artist: Nick Filardi
Main Cover: Sweeney Boo
Variant Cover: Jenny Friton, Logan Faeber, Maria Wolf, Adam Warren, Mindy Lee
Release Date: April 23, 2024

God Complex

We pick up where the last issue left off Harley face to face with Mr Freeze. The negotiations do not pan out and the two take their separate paths.

Later that night, Harley and Ivy talk over breakfast. This gives Harley the energy to go out later that night in search of a new patient. She runs into the perfect client. Maxie Zeus is being approached by GCPD Officers with tasers in hand. The cops subdue him with pepper spray and tasers. This is when Harley intervenes. She attacks the cops and draws a gun on the lead detective. Fortunately it is a trick gun but this gives Harley the chance to get Zeus out of the area with the cops in pursuit. The two hide in a dumpster. Infuriated Zeus storms off with Harley hopping onto his shoulders. She convinces him to go get something to eat.

Zeus tells Harley his origin story. Harley then convinced Zeus to allow her to get to know what makes him tick and tell him about it. She will also get a cut of the spoils. Zeus agrees.

Later Harley is teaching her class. She is interrupted at the end of class by the detective from the previous scenes. She tells Harley that she knows it was her that night and Harley tries to joke it off. The detective leaves but this encounter visibly shakes the professor.

That night, Harley and Zeus meet up at the theater. Zeus is skeptical about the plan but Harley convinces him. Zeus interrupts the play and attacks the lead actor. Robin, Tim Drake shows up and engages Zeus. Harley takes to the rafters. Harley arrives to distract Robin while he gets the actor out of the area. Zeus takes this opportunity to attack Robin. Zeus uses his lighting bolt to take out a column and he runs off with Harley on his back.

Later on the rooftops Harley checks her notes. She tells Zeus that they did great but there is still work to do. The two decide to meet up next week. On leaving, Zeus tells Harley about his wife who he has not spoken of for a long time. Harley is interested to learn more about her.

The next night is date night. Harley and Ivy decide to go “shopping” at the local mall after hours. Their reverie is interrupted by a building imploding. Harley sees that it is the only gothcorp building, the old school Victor Freeze used to teach at. She realizes that Freeze is training new sidekicks. Harley decides to infiltrate to train them herself. Next issue is the comedy of Harley Quinn, the tragedy of Maxie Zeus.

Analysis

The art as usual in a Harley Quinn book is fun, dark and colorful. It is dark because as with most Batman Universe books, the action occurs in the night but with Harley, her costumes, her actions and the world around her are colorful. That creates the fun. In reading this book. The art is considerably different and the cartoony style matches the mania of Harley.

The story is as manic as the art. Harley is taking up a position similar to Catwoman when she and Batman fought in the Gotham War. She wants to train people to be criminals but in the process she wants to provide mental health services in hopes of keeping these people out of Arkham. Strangely this is very altruistic and matches the psychological background of Harley. She wants to help people but in her own mania she goes about it in a completely insane way. Searching out the craziest crooks and helping them in their crazy schemes while psychoanalyzing them and hopefully giving them perspective to find sanity so they will not have to go to an asylum.

This story also introduces the true foil to Harley, the Detective Pulaski. Pulaski is not the typical idiot cop we find in Gotham. She is smart and maybe a little crazy herself. She seems to be treating this rivalry as more of a cat and mouse game. She has a strange smile on her face when she confronts Harley in her classroom. Despite Harley’s best attempts to hide it, she is clearly disturbed by this encounter. The art is very clear at the conclusion of their encounter the detective leaves waving buy and Harley is turned and in the shadows with a worried look on her face. She may be a very dangerous adversary.

The part of this story I would find a little lacking is the attack on the theater. I do not understand what the purpose of this was. There is no real criminal target but Zeus showing up interrupting a play set in Ancient Greece.This draws out Robin to lead to a pointless confrontation. A confrontation that Zeus actually gets out of. My question about the point of this scene persists even after several re readings. It might have made more sense if Pulaski showed up as she was the cop who first tried to apprehend Zeus, instead it seems that including Robin is an unnecessary addition of the Bat Family to this story.

Final Thoughts

The art and colors are fantastic and fits in with the story. Trini Howard is becoming one of my more favorite contemporary writers. Her range is notable when comparing her work on Catwoman and Harley Quinn. Two very distinctive types of stories with two very distinct artists.

Unfortunately there is no perfection here as some scenes just do not seem to fit in as perfectly as I would have liked as well as character placement could have been wiser.

Overall a very enjoyable read.

Editor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with an advanced of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by purchasing this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

Harley Quinn #39Final ThoughtsThe art and colors are fantastic and fits in with the story. Trini Howard is becoming one of my more favorite contemporary writers. Her range is notable when comparing her work on Catwoman and Harley Quinn. Two very distinctive types of stories with two very distinct artists.StoryArtColors4.3Final ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our PartnersThe post Review: Harley Quinn #39 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Steph (@SMozVO) and Ian (@ibmmiller), bring you Season 16 Episode 8 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Reviews: Detective Comics #1084.

Greater Gotham covers Nightwing #113, World’s Finest #26, Catwoman #64, Batman: Off World #4, The Brave and the Bold #12, The Penguin #9, Wonder Woman #8 (backup only). What new merch MUST one of our hosts obtain, and what old comic series MUST our other host buy? Are we as virulently salty about the Orghams again? These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at tbu@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on twitter, or on our Discord server!

Missed an episode? You can find this episode and all of our episodes wherever you find your favorite podcasts, on YouTube, and here at TheBatmanUniverse.net!

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In this review of Batman: The Brave and the Bold #12, the anthology series continues its stories spearheaded by Batman’s adventures with Maps at Gotham Academy.Batman: The Brave and the Bold main cover by Simone Di Meo (Credit: DC Comics)

Batman: The Brave and the Bold #12Writer: Karl Kerschl, Rob Levin, Delilah S. Dawson, Zipporah Smith, Herik Hanna
Artists: Karl Kerschl, Mike Norton, Serg Acuña, Karl Mostert, Charlie Adlard
Colors: Msassyk, John Kalisz, Matt Herms, Mike Spicer
Letters: Steve Wands, Troy Peteri, Dave Sharpe, Tom Napolitano
Cover Artist: Simone Di Meo
Variant Cover Artists: Charlie Adlard, Francesco Mattina
Release Date: April 23, 2024

This comic book review contains spoilers

“Batman: Mother’s Day Part 3” Writer and Artist: Karl Kerschl
Colors: Msassyk
Letters: Steve Wands

Batman: The Brave and the Bold #12 begins as Karl Kerschl’s Gotham Academy throwback comes to a close this week in its third and final installment. A Man-Bat infected Bruce Wayne returns to Isla MacPerson’s house to spread the infection but Maps Mizoguchi arrives just in time to administer an antiserum. Back at the cave, Bruce and Maps determine that “Mother,” the latin speaking serpentine woman that Bruce encountered at the Mackenzie club is behind everything. Maps believes this is a “varcolac” who are undead creatures from Slavic countries with a taste for human livers. The duo tracks the creature down at its club hideout and after a brief fight, Batman hooks it to the Batplane and flings it into the Harbor. The story ends with Bruce taking a Yacht cruise with a famous actress, hoping that Isla MacPerson will see it on the news and get the message that their relationship is over. So at their last meeting he drop-kicked her dog and tried to kill her, and then instead of apologizing he goes on a Yacht trip with another woman as a means of dumping her. Classy, Bruce.

This arc was fun enough, especially if you’re a fan of Gotham Academy. Kerschl’s artistic style doesn’t miss a beat perfectly capturing the light natured feel of that original run. Msassyk’s smart use of color gives an added dynamism specifically in the final battle when bursts of fire cast characters in stark lighting against the chaotic backdrop.

The story remains consistently inconsistent. The character of “Mother” is perfectly indicative of a villain created by a comic book artist. It’s the definition of style without substance. It’s like she was ripped out of the pages of City of Madness, but with less rationale. (It’s just a cool design) Personally, I would’ve preferred it if the kids had just been independently experimenting with Mat-Bat serum ala that old “Splicers” episode of Batman Beyond. Maps is a fun character though. She’s got some Carrie Karrie energy, especially when she’s caring for an injured Bruce.

Bruce stalks a victim in Batman: The Brave and the Bold #12…

“Left Unsaid” Writer: Rob Levin
Artist: Mike Norton
Colors: John Kalisz
Letters: Troy Peteri

One of the best aspects of The Brave and the Bold’s anthology conceit is that it gives DC the opportunity to highlight underutilized characters like False Face and Gentlemen Ghost. These characters are seldom used in other comics, let alone given titles of their own, so it’s great to see them here especially when the stories are as strong as this one.

A remorseful and grief-stricken old woman hires False Face to impersonate her deceased son and apologize to the daughter he had abused and then abandoned. He accepts and apologizes to the daughter (Margot Kirk) under these false pretenses. They tearfully embrace and all is forgiven. Or is it? That night, False Face is attacked in his own bed by Gentleman Ghost! Ghost reveals that he was once loosely related to the Kirks and insists that the man Face impersonated showed no remorse for his actions before he was killed by Ghost himself.

In order to set the record straight, Ghost hires False Face to impersonate the woman who originally hired him and tell Margot that the original apology was a phony. Finally, False Face confronts the old woman still in costume so that she appears to come face to face with herself. He tells the woman that her son never asked for clemency nor did he deserve it, before walking off stoically into the night.

This is just a great story with a very interesting central idea. While Kirk’s mother and False Face initially seek healing through dishonesty, Ghost insists that the truth is more important, and that even a painful truth is preferable to a pleasant lie. It’s an interesting conflict that exists in life, whether to alter or withhold information to shield someone from pain. False Face and Gentleman Ghost explore this moral quandary through dialogue when Face states “when I apologized to her, she seemed happy. You think maybe it’s better this way, that she thinks he’s not all bad?” Ghost concludes: “Not if it’s a lie!”

The story looks great with Mike Norton and John Kalisz providing the art and colors respectively. I liked seeing the old school False Face look although at a glance he looks like the modern Black Mask without the teeth in some panels.

“Artemis: The Poison Within Part 3” Writer: Delilah S. Dawson
Artist: Serg Acuña
Colors: Matt Herms
Letters: Dave Sharpe

We get the third part of what is going to be at least a tetralogy for Artemis, and things are finally starting to get rolling. A faction of powerdrunk American soldiers capture Artemis in the desert and use the Amazon Extradition Entity (A.X.E. recently introduced in Wonder Woman #1) as a pretext to demand information about Wonder Woman’s whereabouts. When Artemis insists that she’s not on American soil and therefore not subject to the Entity, a xenophobic general throws dirt into her face stating it’s from a land where certain decisions have been made about “[her] kind.”

This ongoing Artemis narrative has been my least favorite story three months running now, but to this issues’ credit, while the last two were about Artemis’ experiencing a kind of embryonic internal reflection, this one at least gives us some action. I like the final confrontation between Artemis and the presumed general. And while I am not fully caught up with Wonder Woman, the weaponization of A.X.E. as xenophobic vindication is both smart and very topical. Serg Acuña and Matt Herms continue their great work with the identic A.X.E. military looming like black stormtroopers. I’m now curious to see where this goes.

“A Parting Gift” Writer: Zipporah Smith
Artist: Karl Mostert
Colors: Mike Spicer
Letters: Dave Sharpe

As if this wasn’t a great issue already, we get a surprise Swamp Thing story with: “A Parting Gift.” This is such a simple tale that it’s more like a fable. After Freddie, a low level employee at an energy company discovers that the local swamp is being used as a chemical disposal, he is killed and his body is deposited in that very same swamp. He is discovered by Swamp Thing who uses the Green to help him briefly regain consciousness, re-experience his memories of life, and teach him to view death as a mere transformation rather than an ending.

This is just great. The story is poetic if a bit slight, but the art is remarkable. From the opening page where Karl Mostert uses a POV perspective as Freddie sinks, to the use of negative space to build tension before his body is retrieved by the vines, it’s expert stuff. Add to that the faded beauty Mike Spicer contributes to each page with his wonderful color choice and you’ve just got a great story elevated momentously by its art.

“Henchman” Writer: Herik Hanna
Artist: Charlie Adlard
Letters: Tom Napolitano

Last but not least, we get one of the better black & white Batman tales that have come out of this series with beautiful rain splattered art from Charlie Adlard.

On a rainy night, Batman reminisces with a former criminal. It’s revealed that this criminal had assisted Batman with taking down Two-Face in the past as an inside agent. Batman provides him with the opportunity to do it again during The Penguin’s planned dock heist tomorrow night. The final panel shows the ex-con donning the Penguin henchman regalia, leaving the ending ambiguous if he’s going to help Batman or relapse into a life of crime.

There’s a thematic throughline of regret and redemption running through these stories. “Left Unsaid,” “A Parting Gift,” and “Henchman,” all deal with it to varying degrees with this last story providing the most hopeful thesis that perhaps people can change at their core. Sometimes we don’t even need a headless ghost or a green vine-covered swamp monster to help us do it.

Final ThoughtsBatman: The Brave and the Bold #12 is one of the strongest collections of stories yet. This issue shows exactly what the series can do at its best: provide a core thematic framework (such as dealing with regret and redemption) using a variety of eclectic DC comics characters. Or to put it another way: all killer, no filler.

Batman: The Brave and the Bold #12Final ThoughtsThis is one of the strongest collections of stories yet. This issue shows exactly what the series can do at its best: provide a core thematic framework (such as dealing with regret and redemption) using a variety of eclectic DC comics characters. Or to put it another way: all killer, no filler.4.7Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our SponsorsAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Batman: The Brave and the Bold #12 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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In this review of Detective Comics #1084, Bruce’s journey back to Gotham begins his long awaited confrontation with the Orgham family for control of Gotham.###### This review contains spoilers

Detective Comics #1084
Gotham Nocturne: Act III – Crescendo, Part 1
Writer: Ram V
Artist: Javier Fernandez
Colors: Dave McCaig
Main Cover: Evan Cagle
Variant Covers: Javier Fernandez, Guillem March, Jim Lee, Maria Wolf, Sebastian Fiumara
Release Date: April 23, 2024

Jim Gordon and Renee Montoaya (The Question) watch in awe as Batman returns, fighting off their attackers, and using miniature speakers to transform an azmer demon possessed man back into himself. Batman gives Renee a flash drive with evidence linking the Orghams to the murder of Detective Fielding, which won’t convict in a court, but might turn opinion against them. Jim and Batman watch the sun rise on Gotham.

We see flashes of Batman’s journey from the desert back to Gotham, training blindfolded, sleeping with Talia, finding Arzen Orgham’s poisoned body shipped to the desert by Talia’s agents (including Lady Shiva) in Gotham. Talia plans to bring Arzen back in a Lazrus pit, and Bruce decides to return to challenge the Orghams.

On the rooftop with Jim, Batman wonders if he has a place in the bright and shiny Orgham Gotham. Jim says the forgotten need him to stand against their erasure.

In her skyscraper, the Orgham Queen plots, and Bruce blows a massive exploding Bat in her building. He thanks Catwoman, and tells her he’s changed. She makes a visit to a strange smiling man…

Analysis:

And so the final act of Gotham Nocturne begins! With just 6 issues to #1089, the last issue of the run, we have our setup of the confrontation between the Orgham Queen and Batman. Contrary to past scheduling, artist Javier Fernandez is solicited as the main artist for the next four issues, so hopefully we’ll have a consistent artistic visual for the finale of this operatic story. But what are the details of the story?

We see flashes of how Bruce returned to Gotham, thankfully answering some of the questions posed by Batman showing up just in time to save Jim and Renee in the last issue. No real answers to “what is the nature of Barbatos and the azmer demon and Dr. Hurt” are given, but Bruce’s healing, retraining with Talia’s men and Talia herself, and his resolve to face the Orghams again after being defeated so thoroughly have a reasonably pleasing shape to them. Though Bruce sleeping with Talia again after Selina risked so much to save him in her heist (“Batman: Outlaw”) feels very frustrating, it at least has some semblance of a story and relationship shape. Additionally, Talia spending enormous effort to resurrect Arzen Orgham to perhaps pay the debt her father Ra’s owes to Arzen’s father also has a somewhat pleasing story shape, even if the dots on the way from A to B are quite obscured.

Batman tells both Jim and Selina that he’s a new man, has new answers, but since the questions he has supposedly answered were incredibly vague, it’s hard to see the difference between this Batman and the past. Batman is a force of resistance, the champion of the oppressed and forgotten man. Yes, we can affirm that easily – but that’s not really something new. Unless you buy Cecil Castellucci’s absolutely risible assertion in Batgirl #50, that Bruce only donates to “establishment” charities, Bruce has always funded charities for those most left behind by society. If you take the last arc’s rejection of “Batman always wins” as something new, it’d be quite surprising to Denny O’Neil, Chuck Dixon, Steve Englehart, Greg Rucka, and so many other classic Batman writers. Especially in an arc where we KNOW Batman has to win against the Orghams because the status quo of an evil supernatural family controlling Gotham with a “reality engine” technology and demons that mutate people into hulking abominations walking the streets just cannot last. An assertion that Batman can lose as long as he keeps resisting is quite hollow when, in fact, he is going to win. (I will say that if Batman loses and the Orghams are still in charge at the end of this run, I will eat my hat.)

In addition to these meta explorations, Ram V also pulls a bunch of tools and plot threads out of nowhere to start his confrontation between Batman and the Orghams. The tiny speakers that can knock out azmer demons feel like an abandoned plot thread from Simon Spurrier’s backup about Mr. Freeze and the frozen psychiatrist, but since that was, indeed, completely ignored for the past year, having Batman suddenly know how to use these speakers to defeat an azmer has no weight. Batman also magically having the evidence Renee was seeking for the past several months proves incredibly convenient. Given his statement that they can’t prove Shavod’s guilt in court, I fully expect some kind of Dark Knight Rises uprising (especially given the flaming bat on the side of a skyscraper, also exactly like the Dark Knight Rises). In general, there’s a lot of the narration and characters telling us “something has changed about Batman” when instead it’s literally all things we’ve seen before. However, at least the pieces are being put in place, instead of just slammed on the page as with the last, intensely frustrating issue.

Detective Comics #1084 page drawn by Javier Fernandez (Image Credit: DC Comics)

Backup Story:

Writer: Alex Paknadel
Artist: Robbi Rodriguez
Colors: Patricio Delpeche

Cassandra Cain Batgirl patrols the waterfront in Gotham, still a haven for crime the Orghams haven’t eradicated yet. She sees Lady Shiva, her mother, managing the transportation of a coffin (which we see in the main story belongs to Arzen Orgham). Cass attacks, but Shiva knocks her down and mocks her. Azmer demons attack, and Shiva persuades Cass to help her fight them off. Though she takes many injuries, she manages to knock out the azmer demons without killing them. She tells Shiva a safe route from Gotham’s waterways, and Shiva tells her not to be Batman, but to be what he wanted her to be.

Backup Analysis

Alex Paknadel takes over for fellow Brits Simon Spurrier and Dan Watters for the backups in Detective, and like those two, he ties his story tightly to the main story. Showing how Shiva got Prince Arzen’s body to Talia with Cassandra Cain’s help makes a lot of sense, and the appearance of David Cain’s training for Cass in flashback probably makes many die hard Cass fans quite happy. Though the writing for Cass as struggling feels odd, since nothing like that was hinted at in the main story for the past three issues, her voice and dedication in the face of intense pain is very Cass. It’s also very nice to see Shiva back to her vicious, brilliantly terrifying self as opposed to the Bryan Edward Hill “sad mom”. Artist Robbi Rodriguez returns to drawing Cass, with darker, more somber colors by Patricio Delpeche instead of the neon washed hues of his art in Batgirls. The fight scenes are quite nicely depicted, an essential for a Cass and Shiva story, and despite some frustratingly out of nowhere elements and the non-sequitur of Shiva’s advice to Cass (because of the severe neglect of the Bruce/Cassandra relationship in the past 18 years), this backup still seems like a pretty solid addition to the overall story of Gotham Nocturne.

Evan Cagle’s main cover shows a bloody Bruce Wayne peeking out from a pile of grey bats – a nicely dramatic image that has some thematic resonance with Batman reclaiming his identity and city after an interminable arc of azmer demon control. Interior artist Javier Fernandez’s variant shows Batman gliding on his cape into the heart of the city, rendered solely in black and gold – a striking and dramatic image, though a trifle generic. Classic Batman artist Guillem March paints a Batman landing in almost Frank Miller-esque crouched fashion, with huge arms and legs and snarl included as shattered glass sparkles around him – again, striking, though also again rather generic, nothing specific about this story that demands this image. Jim Lee’s covid auction sketch of Azrael graces the “artist spotlight” series this month, and is beautiful and dramatic as all Jim Lee covers tend to be – though sadly, no Azrael in this issue despite his appearance during the Outlaw arc. Maria Wolf provides the monkey themed “Ape-ril” cover of Detective Chimp – quite humorous. Lastly, Sebastian Fiumara’s 1 in 25 incentive variant shows Batman looming over a bloody Gotham with a bloody, bat-obscured moon at his heart – an ominous image indeed.

Final Thoughts:

The beginning of the final arc of Gotham Nocturne is off to a much better start than the end of the last one, as new artist Javier Fernandez renders Ram V’s setting the stage for his final Batman vs. Orgham conflict.

Editor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with an advanced copy of Detective Comics #1084 for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by purchasing this issue digitally on Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

Detective Comics #1084Final ThoughtsThe beginning of the final arc of Gotham Nocturne is off to a much better start than the end of the last one, as new artist Javier Fernandez renders Ram V’s setting the stage for his final Batman vs. Orgham conflict.2.8Overall ScoreSupport TBU by Purchasing from Our SponsorsAmazonThings From Another WorldThe post Review: Detective Comics #1084 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 15, episode 10 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Review: Detective Comics #1072. Greater Gotham covers Batgirls #18, Catwoman #55, Batman/Superman: Worlds Finest #15, Titans #1, Dawn of DC Primer, Nightwing #104, DC RWBY #4, Tim Drake: Robin #9, DC Pride 2023, Batman: The Brave and the Bold #1. What issue of Act 2 of Detective Comics are we on? Why did Ian think Mr. Teeth was in Dawn of DC? If you listen, these questions and more will (or will not!) be answered. Send us your feedback at podcast@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on Twitter, or our Discord server!

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Ian and Steph have been busy with life, Batman, and The Batman Universe Comic Podcast, but they found a few minutes to sit down and chat about one of their favorite comics, Batman: Wayne Family Adventures, with chapters #85-87! I think Steph is really excited about this batch. Let’s find out why.

Steph: Man, Ian, are we in for some special episodes today. Starting with a two-parter, episodes #85 and #86, “Hold the Line.” We get a sneak peek at Rena and Kate’s relationship and Kate’s past. What did you think?

Ian: I thought it was a really fascinating way to approach Kate’s backstory and character. She’s been around for a while but hasn’t gotten her two-part episode until now (which gives me hope that Huntress will get one sometime, though she hasn’t shown up nearly as much as Kate has). In my interview with Suzi Blake, one of the two background artists on this series, Blake mentioned she did the backgrounds of this two-parter before the main inks were finished, leading to some nice ability to integrate coloring and structuring. I could tell because of how the background/paneling called back to J. H. Williams III’s brilliant page structuring of the original Batwoman comics he drew way back in 2008-2013.

Steph: That’s such cool insight! They really put thought and craft into a lot of these episodes.

Ian: For sure! The original Batwoman origin by Greg Rucka and Williams is REALLY dark. So I’m impressed they got that in without being too jarring with the tone of Wayne Family Adventures. I really love that they kept Batman reaching out to Kate in her backstory. That’s one of my favorite sequences of all time in comics, and they captured it powerfully, even doing a great callback!

Steph: I really liked that; even though we get a taste of Rena and Kate’s relationship, the story is about how Kate got where she is now. It wasn’t a “romance fixed my life.” It was “family accepted me and let me rebuild my life.” I did wonder why Kate was fighting alone and how many Bat-people it took to make an antidote, but I guess they could have been fighting in other places. It was a Gotham-wide Man-batemic.

Ian: Yup, and they had to protect the serum fabricators in my headcanon.

Steph: Anything else you wanted to note about this story?

Ian: It’s nice seeing Jim and Renee again! I still remember their awesome relationship in the GCPD episode!

Steph: Yeah! They need more screen time! And now for something completely different! The first episode of Superman: Kent Family Adventures, or episode #87, “Objects in Mirror,” obviously refers to the note on car mirrors “objects in mirror may be closer than they appear.” Of course, this is the most monumental episode of the entire series because it’s Jon Kent’s debut in WFA!

Ian: I thought you would get a huge kick out of that!

Steph: I maaaaaay have squealed…

Ian: It’s so funny that in this universe, Jon is still about Damian Wayne’s age.

Steph: I loved it. Connor didn’t get an intro card. Has he shown up before?

Ian: I thought he did when the Teen Titans visited Tim for movie night. I just checked back in Episode 29.

Steph: I’m glad he’s back again! Someone pointed out in the comments that there was a picture of him and Miss Martian initially. I wonder if she’ll show up sometime. I love her.

Ian: That would be quite fun! The whole DC universe is rich with characters who have great relationships with the Bat-Family! Do you think DC should make a Kent Family Adventures series, or would that not be a good idea in your eyes?

Steph: I don’t know or love the universe as much, and even though I was excited to see Jon, and didn’t get a good enough look at his character to know if I would be excited to see him periodically show up. But I guess there’s no saying who the author of a new series like that would be. This was a fun episode, though. My husband read it and thought it was hilarious.

Ian: It was really good! I personally think it would be a great idea. And there should be a Wonder Woman: Themiscyra Family Adventures too!

Steph: That would be fun. Are you reading Vixen, Red Hood, or Zatanna? I’m reading Red Hood and Zatanna, but I have much to catch up on.

Ian: I read Red Hood most frequently, but none as much as WFA. What can I say? I’m a Batman Universe guy, especially when it features Steph so much!

Steph: Steph needs to show up in all the series!

Ian: This is correct! Any last thoughts on Kent Family Adventures?

Steph: lol. I was about to ask the same. I REALLY hope this opens the door to more Jon (obviously) and maybe more little in-series spin-offs (spin-ins?) that let us have other universes cross-overs.

Ian: Indeed! I think there is a whole rich world of DC that could be explored in so many more ways in the webtoon platform and format. I appreciate that WFA makes a slice-of-life, gag-a-week comic strip approach and that Zatanna, Vixen, and Red Hood all approach it with a different style. Let’s see even more soon!

Steph: I can’t wait to talk to you about the next batch of episodes! See you then!

Ian: Indeed!

Editor’s Note: You can find Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #85-87 and all other past chapters exclusively on the Webtoon platform. You can find all other reviews from the series here at The Batman Universe.

The post Webtoon Review: Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #85-87 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Overview: In the next six issues of Poison Ivy, making up volume 2, Ivy continues the journey to find herself after defeating her ultimate villain.

Editor’s Note: This collected edition includes the second six issues of Poison Ivy, first released as a miniseries with a planned six issues before being extended to a maxiseries and eventually an ongoing series. That makes this review unique as because the series has become an ongoing, TBU will begin reviewing the issues weekly starting in June. So while Poison Ivy Volume 2 will not be collected and released until later this year, we wanted to get caught up with everything that has happened prior to jumping into monthly reviews. Poison Ivy Volume 2 includes issues #7-12, with the its seventh issue released in February 2023 and the twelfth issue released in May 2023. This review focuses on the story as a whole rather than the individual issues that made up the collection. Spoilers are sure to be revealed.

Synopsis: Poison Ivy Volume 2 begins with Ivy doing exactly what she promised at the end of the last volume: go after the companies killing the earth. She is at a fracking company based out of Montana called FutureGas. Searching the grounds, she feels something familiar: lamia spores. As she follows it closer, she finds a giant silo terraforming some pink goop.

Ivy is then attacked by one of the Green Man’s monsters which should be dead along with him. Ivy reaches for the green and easily kills the monster. Locals attending the grounds hear the commotion and come to her aid. They tell Ivy of other monsters roaming the city, which all started as soon as FutureGas put in this new equipment. A small price to pay for living wages and insurance. The people plead with Ivy to keep quiet. She responds by applying for a job.

Ivy sneaks into headquarters and all the way to Ms. Crawley’s office. As she finds newly minted mushroom spores, she is caught. Ms. Crawley sprays Ivy with something that neutralizes her powers. We learn who Ms. Crawley is, another protégé of Woodrue, AKA the Green Man. Neutralized, Ivy cannot use her healing power against Lamia, and Ivy needs a miracle.

Janet from HR has no idea what she is looking at, but she knows she is scared. Ivy, dying, reminds Janet that she knows her. Ivy blew up Janet from HR’s former employer, the chemical plant in Gotham. Lucky for Ivy, she is a good person. Despite losing one job because of Ivy, she decides to help her.

Ivy leads Janet through the office, talking through the vines and plants towards an antidote that Ivy is able to feel. We learn Janet has cancer that has ruined her life, so she greatly needs the medical insurance from her job to save her life.

They come to a secret lab. It is clear to Janet now that her boss is an evil genius. Janet bumps into a table, tripping an alarm. Just as she finds what she needs to save Ivy, Ms. Crawley attacks with a bat. Janet escapes and gets back to Ivy in time. Ms. Crawley, knowing she can’t stop Ivy twice, tries to flee to no avail.

Ms. Crawley justifies her actions and justifies poisoning the fields and the people all for energy and power. Ivy kills her slowly.

Janet’s life is now ruined even more. Lucky for her, she had made a friend – a friend that has earned favors in the medical field. Ivy takes Janet to Seattle for medical attention and begins to repay Janet for saving her life.

In Seattle, it seems Ivy has settled down for a bit after taking down FutureGas. Comfortable. Ivy calls Janet but hears a different voice answer. Harley Quinn is standing in the doorway. Now knowing Harley got her letters, they embrace.

They spend the next day in bed. Despite Ivy’s protest, Harley wants to know what the lamia spores are like, so Ivy shares the green with Harley for the first time. She takes Harley to her favorite parts of the city, and they listen to the trees together, both able to see what normal people cannot.

As they come down, the truth starts to come out. Ivy has been using the lamia to boost her powers, but she misses her old powers. She misses being able to grow. Harley can give her the greatest gift: she pulls out her phone and shows her what she has done. Ivy hasn’t been able to stay in one place for long, and everything she has planted has blossomed past anything that could happen without her connection to the green. The powers she thought she lost have been there all along; the lamia has kept her blind.

As fast as she comes, Harley needs to return to Gotham. Both ask the other to stay, yet both have their own journey to finish. Invigorated, she tells Janet to pack: “We’ve got work to do.”

Suddenly, something in Ivy has changed. She no longer wishes to continue her vendetta; it’s all about being with Harley. Janet decides that she will tag along as well. Using Ivy’s hatred for conscious capitalism, she talks Ivy into detouring for a two-day women-only wellness retreat hosted by Gwendolyn Caltrope.

They arrive the next day. Yoga, Patchouli oil, and Glop. Ivy is annoyed but doesn’t see a reason to burn it all down yet. Janet takes off towards charcoal lemonade as Ivy sees something skid across the grass, then a green hand closes the barn door behind it. Ivy pushes through the crowd and bursts into the barn, but no Green Monster, just staff preparing for the next meal. She enters the party and takes a flute filled with a green liquid composed of wild mushrooms.

Ivy starts to see the green. This cocktail shouldn’t be able to do this. As they search for someone in charge to stop this before everyone is dosed, Janet finally pins Ivy, taking her chance before they reach Gotham and Harley. The mushrooms make it easy, and they kiss. Returning to the party, they realize it is not just them. Ivy fights through the guilt as the entire women’s retreat engages in a hallucinogenic orgy.

Gwendolyn Caltrope comes in to check on everyone, and it is then clear to Ivy this was no mistake. They were drugged on purpose. Gwendolyn shrugs it off as the other women protest. As they argue, they notice purple mushrooms growing out of their skin.

Ivy runs off with Janet at her heels. Ivy tells Janet that sleeping together was a mistake and that the lamia that has been mutating inside her has gotten out, and it is growing wild.

The second high has hit at the party, and everyone is at it again. Janet and Ivy revel in love but only for a moment. Janet drops. Then just as fast, pops right back up. Janet and the rest of the women at the party are staring at Ivy, their mother. The mushrooms are communicating through the mycelial network with Ivy at the center.

Ivy takes the women of the retreat out for a walk. Outside a remote oil refinery, the first truck hauling fuel tries to escape their blockade. The truck driver calls them climate freaks and gets back behind the truck’s wheel and hits the gas.

She holds Janet with regret as the truck speeds towards them. The mushrooms always have a way. The women vanish just before being struck. Not only can they communicate through the mycelial network, but they can travel through it as well.

Ivy breaks Janet and the rest of the women from the lamia spell. Janet is angry, but the anger quickly turns into love and care. Finally, Gwendolyn pops back up and gets into Ivy’s face, blaming her for everything. They fight about right and wrong, both realizing they want to make the world a better place.

The purple continues to build on Gwendolyn. Ivy tries to stop it, but it’s no longer listening. The lamia is taking her over; it has mutated beyond Ivy’s control. Gwendolyn erupts into a purple mushroom monster.

The Lamia Monster attacks. Ivy springs into action, stepping between the monster and the rest of the women. They battle; the monster gets the upper hand and takes a huge bite out of Ivy, then explodes. Now infected with the new strain of lamia, Ivy drifts, hoping her blood cultures the mushroom and survives.

Ivy walks through the plane between life and death, her fever dream ending with her throwing up Dr. Woodrue, The Green Man.

She wakes with Janet by her side. They are outside of San Fransisco, in the house of one of the women from the retreat. She has been out a week but gets to work. Her body is in the perfect state to make an antidote for the new strain of lamia.

She works until she can’t anymore. Succeeding, she gives the antidote to all but one of the women. She rejects it because she doesn’t trust Ivy, and no one forces her to take the cure.

Janet and Ivy get in the car and head to Gotham. Just outside the city, they see a lamia zombie walking around. Ivy realizes that there must be hundreds of these zombies between Gotham and Seattle spreading lamia spores. She doesn’t beat herself up about it.

Poison Ivy Volume 2 ends with Ivy finally meeting with Harley right outside of Gotham, choosing to lie to her about sleeping with Janet.

Analysis: I’m not really sure what happened here. I absolutely loved the first six issues of this run. Ivy told us a wonderful story about traveling across the country with the intention of killing everyone but instead finds that some people are worthy of sharing the earth. I have no idea what point Wilson was trying to make in the next six, if there was one to be had at all. Everything felt scattered and rushed. If asked, I don’t think I could give a concise answer on what the story was actually about. Maybe Ivy further finding herself?

I found this most frustrating in the middle of this collection, with the part that ends with Harley and Ivy knowing that they are in separate places and they are okay with that. They both know they can continue their adventures and still end up happy in Gotham. It immediately cuts to making that beautiful goodbye mean nothing as Ivy NEEDS to get to Gotham immediately to be with Harley. Ivy then spends the next week cheating on Harley with Janet. I wouldn’t call this a villain or hero story. I would call it someone just trying to do their best. Not really what I tune in for when I am reading DC.

The main reason I feel that these were rushed was the artwork. We did not see Takara for the first two issues, and even when he did show up, the quality was not close to that of the first six. There were many pages where I had no idea what was going on. The panels where she fights the purple monster are almost unreadable.

The only thing going for this run right now is Ivy is back with Harley. What has me scared about the continuation is that they don’t actually end in Gotham. I understand that I am not the main demographic for this comic, but the story and artwork of the beginning of the run won me over, whereas this volume failed to do so on all fronts.

The post TBU Collected Review: Poison Ivy Volume 2 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Guest-starring Shayna from Earth II! “We’re all lubed up on our end!” What does that even mean??? Listen as we cover the 2004 Birds of Prey story “Between Dark and Dawn” (#69-73). After the break, we review Batgirls #18. “Shag’s Mac and Cheese of Comfort and Joy,” listener emails, and literature recommendations also appear.

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Overview: In the first six issues of G. Willow Wilson’s run on Poison Ivy, making up volume 1, we follow Ivy on a cross-country trip to end the human race.

Editor’s Note: This collected edition includes the first six issues of Poison Ivy, first released as a miniseries with a planned six issues before being extended to a maxiseries and eventually an ongoing series. Poison Ivy Volume 1 includes issues #1-6, which had its first issue released in June 2022 and the sixth issue released in November 2022. This review focuses on the story as a whole rather than the individual issues that made up the collection.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Poison Ivy Volume 1 starts with Ivy beginning her narration on her justification for her new plan to give the earth back to the plants. Ivy seems broken. She meets two farmers checking on their cows. She explains to the men that the cows are eating a parasitic mushroom. A mushroom that Ivy herself is spreading. She spreads this to both men, killing them almost immediately.

Back on the road, she continues her narration, letting us know she must stay ahead of the Bat-Family and the Green Man, both of who are bound to show up at some point to foil her plan. She must spread as much of the lamia mushroom as quickly as possible because only her healing powers are keeping lamia from killing her as well. Eventually, she will be unable to keep up.

We cut to who she is narrating to: Harley Quinn is sitting on a bed crying. They argue about Harley helping to take Ivy’s supercharged powers away to save her life. Ivy regrets not being able to understand at the time.

Back in the present time, two landscapers do not know how to take a hint as Ivy exits a roadside bar. She not only murders the deserving men, but she tortures them first.

Ivy continues her narration to Harley, justifying why all humans must die. She isn’t wrong; we are an invasive species.

As Poison Ivy Volume 1 continues, Ivy is eating at a diner. She is complaining about agave farming and vegans. She shows us a brutal murder she committed at an agave farm – she is not a vegetarian.

As she eats, she spreads the mushroom spores telling them to wait to activate. Let these travelers at the roadside diner spread them to their next destination, then release them. While she infects all these people, she has a wonderful conversation with a poet who is weirdly looking to get a symbol of the Green Man tattooed on her.

Interesting turns to bad as the police show up looking for this poet and find Ivy. More torture, more death. She has spread more spores, but the Green Man has gotten closer.

Ivy made a lot of noise at the diner. She finds a small motel in the middle of nowhere. A good place to hang low and make a little money for the rest of the journey.

Ivy finds herself in a perfect little situation. She found a garden in need and a friend. Things look up for a moment or two. After a long day of work, Ivy is attacked in her hotel room. She fights back, at first believing that it is Jason, the Green Man. She continues to fight, then goes. Just yard waste from the day’s work. Not sure if it was real or if the lamia spores are slowly killing her as well, but Ivy doesn’t wait to find out.

On to Idaho, the office of George Halloran. Ivy is being introduced to her new position as a package handler. She packages boxes going all over the world, spreading spores with every box. It also doesn’t take long for Ivy to realize her boss, Halloran, is abusive. She murders him and takes over the factory continuing to use it to spread spores.

She is relaxing, thinking of Harley, then she is attacked. This time the attacker lets it be known he was sent by the Green Man. She is able to fight him off but knows she has overstayed her welcome again.

We jump to more back story. We see the Green Man experimenting on Ivy, connecting her to the Green. Then quickly back to real-time with her driving, hallucinating Batman in the passenger seat. She starts to hallucinate between real-time and the past as she works up the energy to confront the scientist. Batman, knowing that this scientist is indeed the Green Man, tries to keep Ivy from entering.

It’s a very short time before she is confronted by the Green Man himself, Jason Woodrue. He has been waiting for her. The lamia spores are making things difficult by continuing to cause the hallucinations, but she strikes. As Batman taunts her, she jumps between times. Seemingly caught, she uses what’s killing her. She overloads the Green Man with the spores and activates them, killing him but also killing herself faster.

Suddenly she can’t feel her limbs. The Green Man created the spores; he can still control them. Ivy has a knife to her own throat.

Ivy and her hallucination of Batman begin to work together. The Green Man, in turn, threatens the life of Harley, giving her even more strength to draw from. She pulls down the roof and crushes them both. She finally hears what Batman has been telling her. She gets up and starts to consume the Green Man, the only way to kill him truly.

Ivy tries to walk it off, knowing the toxins will kill her. As a little girl asks if she is ok, she feels herself start to heal. The Green had given her another chance. Poison Ivy Volume 1 ends as Harley finishes the final letter on her way to find Ivy. Ivy gives us what her new mission will be, taking down all the companies killing the earth, claiming the time for heroes is over.

Analysis: To be honest, I took this series because I am a newer reviewer for the site and wanted to get a decent amount of content to write about. I did not think I was going to get to a comic run as enjoyable as this was. The story, at its core, is very simple, but in doing this, G. Willow Wilson allows the art to tell just as much of a story as her words do. And the art; from now on, if Marcio Takara is doing it, I am picking it up.

It isn’t really fair to say that the story is simple. I mean it in a sense that the core idea and themes of the story are right there and easy to grasp, leaving the reader able to dive right into it. Ivy has a disease that she can spread, and she wants to spread it before it kills her because humans are destroying the earth. I didn’t have to take any time believing that this is a journey Ivy would take. Immediately I was in it. I thought it was a great idea to use letters to Harley as an avenue to tell us the story, not just a narration to the reader. G. Willow Wilson was also able to throw in her opinions on the state of humans destroying the earth without being preachy or overbearing. I noticed it, but it didn’t consume the comic I was supposed to be reading for enjoyment. I think this was done splendidly.

Ivy is a Rogues Gallery character. She comes from the world of Batman. Sometimes these standalone villain runs seem to forget that. Right from the first issue, one of Ivy’s fears is the Bat-Family stopping her mission. Batman himself, though just a hallucination, shows up. Not only does he show up, but he is part of Ivy’s mind that figures out how to completely end the Green Man. She uses the manifestation of Batman to overcome her own fears and defeat her ultimate villain. By the end of this run, her view of the world and people also changes. Her mission evolves just as she does. She no longer believes that all humans should die, just the ones destroying the planet. The only thing I think that would have made the story better is an actual ending, but I am looking forward to the next volume.

The art is spectacular. Every cover showcased in the first six issues is stunning. Ivy is slowly dying from mushrooms as the story moves. The art, as each issue moves forward, shows that. When we finally get to the showdown at the end, Ivy is hallucinating, and the panels of the comic are psychedelically swirling and moving. The first six pages of the fifth issue are beautiful. The colors and contrast on each page make all the important images pop.

I was not expecting to enjoy these as much as I did. The storytelling from the beginning to the end is exciting, and the art is so much fun to follow. Bring on the next volume.

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Overview: In Harley Quinn #30, Harley travels to Earth-26 and returns the vorpal fish, while the backup features Harley in a dream sequence.

Editor’s Note: Due to the anthology nature of this collection, we will feature a synopsis and analysis for each short story rather than breaking up the synopsis and analysis. Spoilers are sure to be revealed.

Story #1: “Girl in a Crisis” Part 3 by writer Tini Howard and artist Sweeney Boo

Synopsis: Harley Quinn #30 begins on Earth-26; Captain Carrot is invested with the vorpal fish. He goes off to fight the “Female Furries” who seek the “Panty Lane Equation.” They are led by Backseid. But just as he leaps in to attack, the vorpal fish is missing. The scene switches to Harley’s apartment, where she is being tutored by Bud and Lou. They argue about her responsibility. Eventually, Harley wonders how she can travel to Earth-26.

During office hours, Professor Quinzel keeps a student waiting while she seeks Zatanna’s help. Doctor Fate gives her an idea, and she orders a “Cosmic Treadmill” from the Flash Museum in Central City. Bud and Lou help Harley get to the necessary speed on the treadmill, and off they go. She returns the vorpal fish to Captain Carrot, but Carrot is irate when he finds out Harley had no good reason for procuring the fish to begin with. Carrot kicks her across the room, and Harley pleads to him to let her go.

Back home, Ivy returns and is angry when she sees the broken plant.

Analysis: Here is a sentence: Captain Carrot is angry because Harley stole his vorpal fish, which results in his friends being killed by Backseid’s Female Furries who pursue the Panty Line Equation.

I had fears for what the Harley Quinn book would become under writer Tini Howard, but I underestimated both the rate and the extent of the decline. In Howard’s hands, Harley is an absolute child. It is not just that she behaves childishly from time to time. Rather, the character behaves like a ten-year-old. Gone are all traces of the thoughtful, introspective, moody Harley we saw under the previous writer Stephanie Phillips. This book cannot possibly be intended for adults.

The multiversal storyline makes little sense, and to the extent it does, it feels like forced hilarity that never gets off of the ground. There’s nothing humorous about Captain Carrot. The fact that his prized weapon is a vorpal fish is also not funny. And, yet again, the disrespect shown to teachers and professors in this arc continues, as Harley is depicted as a teacher who cannot be bothered to engage a waiting student who wants only to praise her. The writer here understands almost nothing about higher education, which is no sin in itself, but to use it as a prop and flavor it with strong tones of disdain and carelessness is risible.

Story #2: “Everybody Hates Side Quests” by writer Nicole Maines and artist Mindy Lee

Synopsis: In the backup of Harley Quinn #30, Harley is a literal knight in shining armor. This is a video game, and she is tasked with ridding the pumpkin patch of goblin-bats. Then she is tasked with finding out what is poisoning the well. Then she is tasked with saving the town. She seeks the “Fornicating Tower” where she wakes a sleeping Ivy up with a kiss. Then she awakes in her own bed and is angry at being brought out of her dream.

Analysis: These backups are literally a waste of pages. The Harley Quinn book neither needs nor benefits from a backup, and none of them have been worth reading, including this one. It adds absolutely nothing to the main story which is a shame because the main story could really use the help.

Editor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with a copy of this comic for review purposes. You can find this comic and help support TBU in the process by purchasing this issue digitally on Comixology through Amazon or a physical copy of the title through Things From Another World.

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Overview: In Nightwing #104, Dick Grayson is now Superwing! With this newfound power gifted to him from Neron, will Dick be tempted to relinquish Olivia over to the Lord of the Underworld?

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Nightwing #104 begins, Neron has granted Nightwing superpowers for two hours as a sample of a temptation to give over Olivia Desmond to him. Alerted that the Titans are under attack by Gorilla Grodd and Dr. Polaris, Dick flies across the planet in record time to even the odds. With the situation under control, Superwing and the Flash race across the planet to do as much good as Dick is able to with his new abilities. Meanwhile, Trigon warns Neron that his recent failures in reclaiming Olivia have made him look weak in the eyes of the Underworld and warns that he will soon be overthrown. Neron, in response, commands his forces to kill Olivia.

In the final twenty minutes of his power, Superwing flies to Metropolis to thank Superman. Superman, in return, flies above the Earth’s surface with Dick, and the two discuss the tremendous weight of protecting the planet. Back on Themyscira, the Titans are once again attacked by Neron’s forces. Superwing arrives to fly Olivia away, but just as Neron approaches him, his power runs out. Asking Nightwing to deliver the girl in order to regain his powers, Dick is steadfast in his refusal and blasts Neron with his magic sticks given to him by Nite-Mite. Neron’s true form as a bubbly green tentacle monster is revealed, and he’s forced to return to the Underworld.

Olivia is made an honorary Titan, and Donna Troy takes her to Paradise Island to be raised by the Amazons. One hour later, in Hell, Raven visits Neron to take his dominion of the Underworld from him, delivering it to Blaze. Before Raven departs, Blaze informs her that something of her is missing.

In the backup story, Superman (Jon Kent) and Nightwing continue to track down the circus tent attacker. They speak with the Ringmaster and are informed of a recently fired employee named Brian, who hated the circus and vowed revenge. Searching his trailer, the heroes find dynamite. Quickly finding him at a nearby fair, Brian is apprehended, and the bombs are detonated safely in Superman’s hands. Before the two depart, they take some time to see the sights at the fair, and play a rigged game of ring-toss.

Analysis: This is a quintessential Tom Taylor Nightwing issue in that it’s good, but it could’ve been a lot better.

The bones of Nightwing #104 are sound. We’ve never seen Dick Grayson with superpowers, and it’s an inviting proposition to spend an issue with him flying around saving people in ways he hasn’t been capable of before. But this should’ve been an issue depicting extreme temptation. Dick’s perspective of his newfound power is summarized in about two panels in a montage. We should’ve had closeups of a sense of awe and wonder, the ideas forming on his face about the possibilities, and maybe even some fun strength comparisons with the other Titans. Of course, Dick would always resolve to relinquish the powers if it meant saving a person’s life, but it’s such a foregone conclusion that there’s no tension or suspense in his decision. So whether or not Dick’s fascination would play any part in the final offer to give up Olivia, Taylor plays Dick as so noble, good, and wonderful that he becomes less human.

Perhaps this comes down to personal philosophy on heroes or even the characters specifically. In the infamous and controversial Nightwing #93 during the Devin Grayson run, the intended event meant to carry far-reaching implications was that Nightwing was so worn down that he allowed Tarantula to murder Blockbuster. That was him being at the end of his rope, and he felt sick over it for a long time. As much as there is to say against Nightwing #93, that’s at least caring about the character in pushing them to their limits and beyond. There’s an investment in working his morals out. In this issue, it’s fun to see Dick fly around for a minute (and Superwing’s costume is pretty cool), but there’s so little meat on the bone of what they show us that all that’s left is the temptation, which would only serve to frustrate Dick and not the readers, as we weren’t suitably tempted by what was rendered on panel. I don’t know if it’s a failure of storytelling because Taylor never once even hints that Dick is tempted to begin with. But if that was never the point of the story, to begin with, why do it at all? We’re not learning anything new about Dick; we’re not surprised by his heroic choice.

Also, Neron is defeated way too easily all over Nightwing #104. It’s a combination of the Titans and Batgirl (Barbara Gordon) fighting monsters practically off-panel, but there’s little reaction to the taste of victory against what should be overwhelming forces. That could’ve been used to show Dick how hard protecting the world is and for him to think about battling those forces without superpowers. But Dick blasts Neron back to the Underworld and weakens him with vague, unspecific magic, and Raven snatches his proverbial chain with barely a reaction from either party.

At this point, I’m wondering what the point of any of this is because, having read Titans #1, it doesn’t set up anything in that series thus far. Maybe Raven’s plot will be followed up on, but this four-issue story is essentially just a preview for Taylor writing the Titans. At the same time, with it being Nightwing’s book, we don’t get a lot of the Titans being shown off throughout. They’re just window-dressing as Dick’s friends.

On top of all that, Travis Moore was the wrong artist for this arc. I perfectly understand Bruno Redondo being given a break. The man is a wonderful artist, and whatever keeps his work output healthy, let’s do it. But while Moore draws pretty people well, he cannot do action as well. The panel which clinched it for me was actually the brief scene of Flash and Superwing racing across the train station. There was no sense of motion, no speed lines. They were just static figures presented on a page. This is the Fastest Man Alive and a Superpowered Nightwing; where’s the feeling of power?

What did I enjoy was the scene with Superman. Dick and Clark’s relationship has been very well re-established in the last couple of years, and the scene with Superman and Superwing looking and talking about the planet was great. I especially liked Dick’s overconfidence in himself as Clark warned him that he couldn’t be friends with everybody. That was the characterization and content on a level the issue needed way more of, but it was only for a short amount of time.

The backup story was fine if overlong from what it was trying to do. Once Brian was arrested, there was no more point to the story, so I wasn’t seeing the need to point out that ring-toss games are fixed.

This issue isn’t bad, but it’s not nearly as strong as the promise of its premise. I don’t know whether Taylor is being stretched thin on writing duties now with Titans or what, but so much of this read like a platonic draft of a story and less of an issue to read. As much as I’ve been playing an armchair writer in this review, it’s hard not to do when so many other books published by DC right now have more attention to the character than this one does, and it’s an Eisner-nominated series! Mark Waid’s World’s Finest and even the soon-to-finish Batgirls book focus on characterization more than here in Nightwing #104.

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Overview: In Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #15, it is revealed who is responsible for the death of the fake Simon Stagg, and the threat is bigger as it involves the robot apocalypse.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #15 begins, Red Tornado is in Eastern Kentucky. He is dealing with massive flooding and has rescued a couple of kids. Suddenly something seems to happen to Tornado. He says protocol omega and starts to spin out of control. This is Chapter Three of Elementary, Ultramorpho.

That is exactly who is attacking Superman and Robin now. He has become pure kryptonite, severely weakening the man of steel. Robin is able to put a barrier between Ultramorpho and Superman, allowing him to drag the weakened Kryptonian out of harm’s way. While Robin gets Superman out of the area, Professor Ivo appears to be gloating over a com signal. Robin is able to get Ivo to admit to the death of the fake Simon Stagg. Ultramorpho, unfortunately, has caught up to the fleeing heroes. Help is on the way, Metamorpho himself has arrived, but he is not alone. Batman augmented with the Metal Men as armor also has arrived. There are, however, more problems.

In Washington DC, Mekanique brainwashed normal citizens to help the robot revolution. All that is standing in her way are the members of the Doom Patrol, including Robotman. Unfortunately, in the mele, Steele’s program is corrupted, leaving Rita and Larry alone against their own teammate.

Batman, with the augmentation of the Metal Men, engages with Ultramorpho. Batman unleashes the Metal Men to attack. Lead does not directly attack, he instead gives Superman the armor he needs to face the kryptonite in Ultramorpho. To counter this, Ultramorpho becomes acid, burning Robin’s leg and overcoming Batman and Superman in the fumes. Metamorpho is also injured in the counter-attack, and Gold calls for a retreat as Ultramorpho flies off with the unconscious Batman and Superman. The Metal Men grab the injured Robin and Metamorpho and fall back. We next get a scene in Colorado where the Challengers of the Unknown are facing off with Ultivac.

We catch up with Robin, Metamorpho, and the Metal Men. Metamorpho has recovered, and Gold tends to Robin’s leg. Mason is shouting about having to retreat, and Robin stands up to him, showing him that he has a monitor for Batman’s vital signs and he is still alive. With Batman alive, there is a good chance that Superman is also alive. Robin wants to formulate a plan, or else they will fail in their attack again, but first, they need some backup. He attempts to contact the Teen Titans; however, Kid Flash reports that they are occupied with a robot uprising off the coast of Maine. Robin orders the Metal Men and Metamorpho to split up and bring back whatever help they can find.

Superman regains consciousness, Batman helps him to his feet. They find themselves in some kind of plant. They find themselves amongst the other captives, including Magnus, Dr. Cyber, Toyman, the Bug-Eyed Bandit, and Ivo. Ivo, however, is also a prisoner. When Superman attempts to talk to him, he collapses unconscious. Before he collapsed, he mentioned his own creation. Superman finds Amazo, but he, too, appears to be a captive as well. Batman finds Magnus and attempts to talk to him. Magnus tries to get Batman to be quiet, saying that their jailer does not like it when they talk, he will hurt them.

Their jailer does cause the three severe pain forcing them all to their knees. The final reveal is that their captor is the child of both Ivo and Magnus. He is Amazo 2.0, known as NewMazo, and he is the end of the human race.

In Gotham, Robin tries to contact Supergirl. She, too, is occupied with Chemo. She will join Robin as soon as she can. Robin, however, has more pressing problems of his own. The Batmobile fails to respond to Robin’s control and is headed straight into a brick wall. Next issue, Rise of the Robot Overlords.

Analysis: Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #15 is packed with easter eggs. Not only do we continue to see the Doom Patrol in this story, but we get others as well. We see the Metal Men in action along with Red Tornado and the Challengers of the Unknown.

The story answers the big question, but in the process, another question is revealed. We see what is responsible, but it does not appear to be from a robotics genius but the robot itself that has enslaved its creator and strikes out on its own. NewMazo appears to be operating on its own, but it has the power to overwrite the programming of other robots, including Red Tornado and Robotman, who is actually a human brain in a robot body. With the heroes all preoccupied, who can step in to help Robin rescue his friends?

This begs the question about Robotman. How is he being controlled? He is not a standard robot like Red Tornado and Amazo, he actually has a human brain. The robotics in him is confined to his body, not his mind, so how is Newmazo controlling him?

The art is basically the standard fare for superhero comics. This is not to say that it is bad, it is actually very good, but it is expected for this type of story. What is interesting to note is the costume designs of the characters. Batman has a yellow oval on his chest, and Robin, whose identity is not revealed, appears to be Dick Grayson. His costume includes pixie boots even though he is wearing green pants. Also, the Teen Titans roster includes Wonder Girl, Aqualad, Speedy, and Kid Flash. This is the roster before the New Teen Titans, the era that includes Dick Grayson as Robin. My guess, based on the art, is that this story does not take place in the main continuity of the DC Universe.

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Overview: Freshly escaped from prison, Catwoman reconnects with Eiko and Dario to recruit and train them for her new plan to take over Gotham’s crime in Catwoman #55.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Catwoman #55 begins, Catwoman attacks the meeting of the Five Families at the Kitty Kat Club, and Black Mask orders his men to open fire. Catwoman helps Eiko escape, and they are both helped by a group of strippers.

Dario meets with his ex-lover Noah, and after a brief fight, Noah challenges him to an alley duel later, which Dario accepts.

At the Trixie Hotel, Selina briefly mourns her lover Valmont, who she killed, then comforts Dario, who is distraught about the upcoming duel and tells Selina that Eiko needs backup.

At Gotham Harbor, Eiko’s Yakuza fight the Ibanescu sex traffickers, and Eiko supports them as Catwoman. Later, Catwoman asks Eiko to stop being Catwoman since she’s back and needs Eiko as a mob boss.

Selina trains Dario to fight and to be a leader, and then the two of them assault Dario’s father’s house, offering to make him a partner in Selina’s crime organization, but he warns Black Mask instead.

Analysis: Tini Howard’s Catwoman is back on track with the Selina vs. Black Mask and organized crime storyline that she started in issue #44. After the incredibly messy Punchline/prison crossover and the two inexplicable road trip arcs, it is a good sign that the starting plotline is back in the spotlight. Unfortunately, that spotlight doesn’t bring new focus or competence. Characters continue to make completely incoherent decisions. Selina fears the wrath of Black Mask on the strippers of the Kitty Kat Club, but when they blatantly lie to his face about letting her escape, he just turns away and ignores them instead of even the expected brutal slap, let alone gunning them down as he just a minute earlier tried to do to Catwoman and Eiko. Selina suddenly starts trying to train Dario as a leader – despite him clearly being a natural follower and supporter and very good at it. Hopefully, Selina letting Don Tomasso call Black Mask at the end of the book was on purpose. Otherwise, it’s yet another miscalculation of a supposedly powerful and intelligent main character that ends up making her look incredibly incompetent and dumb.

Nico Leon continues as the main artist for the run, and sadly, after the improvement of the last issue, his work here in Catwoman #55 has a lot of serious disconnects during the action scenes. When Noah pulls a knife on Dario, and Dario shoves him away, the distance between the two is extremely poorly depicted, leading to a strong sense of a panel missing. Similarly, Eiko goes from a spotter position above the dock fight to smack in the middle of the mafia gunmen with zero transition or sense of geographical transition. All in all, Leon’s sense of closure needs a lot more work to build a solid action sequence from panel to panel. However, Leon’s placement of panels and page construction is quite good in the book – several sequences have a very pleasing rhythm to them. Veronica Gandini continues to do strong work on coloring.

David Nakayama’s main cover highlights Eiko and Selina’s conflict – which makes sense since his covers have spotlighted Eiko for the last several issues in his trademark shiny style. Sweeney Boo produces a similarly shiny solo Selina vaulting through security lasers for her first cardstock variant. Dan Panosian’s vivid black-on-yellow cardstock cover highlights Selina jumping from a rooftop, surrounded by loudly (and cutely) meowing cats – and the same image is used for the 1 in 50 foil variant. Frank Cho provides an AAPI variant with Sabine Rich featuring Eiko as Catwoman, though less stylized than Nakayama usually draws her outfit. Lastly, Rian Gonzales paints the 1 in 25 incentive variant, featuring a Selina dressed half as Catwoman, and half in a slinky ballgown with a cat on her shoulder, highlighting her dual nature in Gonzales’ trademark cute watercolor style.

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Overview: In Batgirls #18, Steph, Cass, and Babs face the rising threat of the sniper in the Hill, but help comes from many surprising places for our heroines!

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Batgirls #18 begins, the three Batgirls meet with Office Brooks in the church the Saints used as a base, hunting for clues to Assisi’s whereabouts as a suspected sniper. Brooks tells them the sniper is trying to get the police to arrest the Batgirls, and Brooks says Montoya may have to try to take them in. Babs says she’ll have to have a good plan, and the three exit through the roof. Outside, Montoya punishes Brooks for going behind her back with more overtime and a warning about working with the Batgirls.

At the Clock Tower, the Batgirls discuss the case and plan to deal with the sniper, then Babs sends Steph and Cass to the dam, where they meet Batman. He encourages Steph and Cass and directs them to stay hidden to mess with the sniper’s plan.

Office Brooks receives a visit from a mysterious woman in a wheelchair who points out that a second sniper was present at the cemetery shooting, while Steph and Cass foil a bank robbery using total stealth tactics. Later, as they debrief at the Loft, Babs calls them through F1D0 with congratulations and tells them she and Alysia have used deep fake technology to make it look like the Batgirls have turned themselves into the police, and she has a plan…

At the hospital, Grace O’Halloran sits by the bedside of her gravely wounded cameraman Roky, and explains her plan to stand up against the sniper.

Steph and Cass wake up in their Loft on the Hill to find Grace leading a crowd of protesters against the police “arrest” of the Batgirls.

Analysis: Michael W. Conrad and Becky Cloonan’s run on Batgirls is almost over (even if we will be able to count their two Knight Terrors: Nightwing books), and in this penultimate issue, they ramp up the structural and emotional power they’ve sometimes struggled to bring to bear on these three characters.

The build-up from Grace’s hospital visit to the protest outside the Batgirls’ window is really effective, with the misdirect of Grace loading the illegal shotgun she bought at the graveyard last night, Cass visiting her favorite bookstore and Mr. D, while Steph plays the piano with Kyle Mizoguchi, and then the Batgirls waking up and feeling the panic of all the people they put their lives on the line to protect lining up themselves to try to help the Batgirls.

Cloonan and Conrad have struggled to land the emotional finish of build-up and payoff with a lot of their arcs, sometimes making the payoff feel more like an emotional standing jump rather than a build-up. But here, I think they’ve succeeded magnificently, and I cannot wait to see what the Batgirls do to save the neighborhood they’ve come to love, and which has, movingly, come to love them as much as the readers love these girls. The moment where Batman helps the Batgirls out, and hammers home the importance of working together rather than forcing yourself to work alone without support, was very moving. It’s nice seeing Batman affirming Steph and Cass, especially considering his history with Steph in particular.

Artist Robbi Rodriguez provides solid, appealing, and effective pages for this arc. After the wonky and often rubbery feeling issues #7-8 of this series, I was looking with trepidation at this final arc, but Rodriguez is doing very good work. Colorist Rico Renzi keeps the neon pinks and yellows dominant in Batgirls #18, making the look of the book consistent. All in all, a very solid team going into the finale.

Jorge Corona once again provides the main cover, showing Gunbunny and Gunhawk with the Batgirls swinging towards them from the distance – a beautifully colored riot of reflections on the skyscraper behind them. David Marquez’s third of four covers shows a strong and beautiful Barbara Batgirl against a pale blue background – a really appealing piece of art! Crystal Kung’s AAPI month cover shows Cass crouching, maskless, in Chinatowns rooftops and signs – a bit melancholy of an image, though Cloonan and Conrad’s writing does have a distinct melancholy taste to it, so fitting. Lastly, interior artist Rodriguez provides the 1 in 25 incentive of Cass and Steph with a hand-lettered Batgirls graffiti behind them, spraypaint cans in their hands, the rebellious Batgirls they are!

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Overview: In Batman Brave and the Bold #1, we see stories from year one of Batman, Stormwatch, and Superman, then to the future for more Batman.

Story #1: Batman in “The Winning Card” Part 1 by writer Tom King and artist Mitch Gerads

Synopsis: The first story in Batman: The Brave and the Bold #1 begins in year one Gotham. Captain Gordan is entering a mansion on the Claridge Estate – a little girl is missing. At the same time, at the railroads in northeast Gotham, Batman pursues an abuser on the run. Batman catches and just stands over the man as he justifies his actions with a slew of profanities. His justifications turn into pleas for safety.

We move to Northwest Gotham, the Robinson Apartments. A father on the phone pleads with the police to help him find his missing daughter. In Adams Park, we see that his little girl isn’t alone. She sits on a bench in the rain, talking to the Joker. He tells her that he has a knife, “but you can’t have it yet.”

Back at the Claridge Estate, we learn Captain Gordon is there to protect an anxious Mr. Claridge. A threat called into the radio threatens to “poison all of Gotham’s water at dawn. I’m going to kill Henry Claridge and steal his precious diamond tonight at midnight.” It’s currently 11 PM, and Captain Gordon believes it’s all a joke.

At Wayne Manor, a Brute Nelson is looking for Bruce Wayne, who is missing from his own party. He passes Alfred a note, hoping to do business with Bruce in the future.

The abuser is still whirling profanities, pleas, and justifications at the rail yard. Batman finally gives him the justice he screams for by smashing his face with his boot.

The Joker has taken the little girl to an unknown location. They play hide and seek, and he shares with her how he became all white. He asks her if she thinks it’s midnight.

It’s midnight at the Claridge Estate. The diamond is found to be fake, and Mr. Claridge dies with a big smile on his face. Back at the Robinson apartments, the little girl’s father opens the door to his little girl but also to the Joker. He gets to see the knife.

Analysis: This was not the story I was expecting to kick off Brave and the Bold. I found the story to be very interesting, and I am excited to see where it goes next; however, there are a lot of wasted pages. There are almost four pages of a woman beater just talking nonsense where half the bubbles are @$%^&. The Joker is absolutely terrifying, and all of his pages are gold. The art style is very much like an oil painting which is not my favorite for comics, but again the panels with the Joker stand out. They deserve to be in ornate frames hanging in someone’s home. All in all, I was really hoping to have more fun while reading this.

Story #2: Stormwatch in “Down with the Kings” Part 1 by writer Ed Brisson and artist Jeff Spokes

Synopsis: The second story in Batman: The Brave and the Bold #1 begins with Dr. Bones welcoming Phantom-One to Stormwatch. As they tour the spacecraft, we learn this is Phantom-One’s first adventure after being a sidekick; the Justice League is gone, and that Stormwatch is there to pick up the slack.

On the tour, we meet the other members of the team: Ravager, Shado, and Peacekeeper-01, none too happy with the new recruit. Further down the tour, we meet Winter, Dr. Xanto Zema, and finally, Core, a walking reactor.

Core is unplugged from their spacecraft Skywatch, as Winter and Dr. Zema explain to Phantom how Dr. Bones no longer “works” for the DEO but that he still relays all the missions. Plausible deniability.

Winter leads the mission brief. A faction of the Black Hole known as the Singularity will try to break out one of their leaders, William Husk, from Iron Heights Penitentiary. They have also been able to harness the power of the Speed Force and the Negative Speed Force, thus creating a lot of interesting weaponry. The mission is to take Husk alive before his team beats them to it.

The Singularity gets to the penitentiary first. As soon as they get Husk out of his cell, Stormwatch arrives, and the battle ensues. A canister is dropped from a Singularity plane in the pen. A giant sphere starts to form and expand. Everything inside begins to age at a super increased rate.

While the others attempt to reach the canister inside the sphere to destroy it, Ravager, Flint, and Phantom-One are in pursuit of Husk, who is trying to use the distraction to escape. Ravager and Phantom-One peel off to aid other prisoners in evacuation, despite being ordered to continue their pursuit by Bones.

Flint uses his super speed to catch up to Husk easily. He begins to threaten him to turn off the sphere. Before the threats are needed, Core powers up and enters the sphere and is able to neutralize it. Flint is barely able to hold himself back from killing Husk.

Part one ends with Bones on the phone with an unknown person, presumably at the DEO. The voice, though happy with the result, is disappointed in the execution.

Analysis: This was an enjoyable read. It’s a solid team-up story but nothing special. What really makes this one interesting is the group of characters the creators have chosen to put together. I really enjoy seeing Ravager and Phantom-One featured in a story. There is Shado, and I only know of her from the first season or two of the CW show Arrow. I read that Peacekeeper-01 was made to replace Batman and then taken over by Scarecrow. The art is solid. It’s more like what I expected to see to kick off the comic. I am by no means itching to read the next part, but I am interested in seeing how they continue to utilize this group of characters.

Story #3: Superman in “Order of the Black Lamp” by writer Christopher Cantwell and artist Javier Rodriguez

Synopsis: As the next story in Batman: The Brave and the Bold #1 begins, the first panel shows a ship freighter caught in the middle of the ocean in a storm. As the panels play through the disaster, the narrator tells the story of a young boy meeting a girl at camp. Superman then bursts through the storm, lifting the ship above the clouds as the narrator’s story begins to fizzle as he can’t remember the name of the girl.

An acting chief Lois Lane interrupts Clark trying to remember the name. They banter, and we learn that not long ago, everyone “out there” knew that Clark Kent was Superman. Now, his secret back intact, he feels like just another bum on the metro beat that can’t even write a good story about himself. Lois assures him that he is a wonderful reporter and that the people that matter to him the most, her, Jon, and Bruce, know his secret and accept him for it. Then Lois quickly reveals that the Daily Planet is also about to go down, and she needs super strong bylines – putting the pressure she just relieved right back on Clark.

The next panels show Clark continuing to write. He tells of a bank heist at the world’s most difficult vault. A major feat easily thwarted by the Man of Steel. He is again interrupted by Lois Lane as they are sitting on the couch at home. This time she agrees with him, calling his writing bland.

A mysterious package left for Clark at the Daily Planet interrupts them. It’s a decoder ring. This brings Clark back to his childhood. He uses the ring on the note inside, and it reveals “SAVE ME” followed by coordinates. Clark feels this could be his story, but Lois is apprehensive.

Part 1 ends with Superman’s decoder ring acting strangely as he heads towards a structure built right into a mountainside.

Analysis: This was easily my favorite story of the four. While the first two seemed to be trying too hard, this story flowed. We got the cute Clark and Lois banter, the insecure, inferior alien feeling from Clark Kent as he tries to fit in, and a wonderful mystery that ties childhood television with a decoder ring. It is difficult to have cliffhangers that really make me want to come back. This one hit. The art is very simple, bright, and just Superman. After having Tom King be scary serious, followed by being introduced to a big new team, this was the perfect story to slide into the third slot.

Story #4: Batman in “Heroes of Tomorrow” by writer and artist Dan Mora

Synopsis: “Another Gotham. Another life.” This final story in Batman: The Brave and the Bold #1 is a black-and-white story that takes place in Future State Gotham. Batman is our narrator. We watch as a machine-like figure chases and corners two small children. Batman jumps into action. He signals his robot bat companion, V2, to protect the children as he attacks the machine, a Royal Flush Guardsman. V2 responds with sentience, letting Batman know he is powered up to ninety percent energy for bonding.

He defeats the guardsman, and the kids get to safety. As they move away, the guardsman begins to rise. This was a trap, it’s not a guardsman but a Joker bot. Bonding is now at ninety-six percent as the Joker grabs both children. Batman tells V2 to initiate bonding, it’s successful! With the Caped Crusader Form now activated, he commences Dark Knight kick. With a flash, he takes down the Joker bot, saving both kids.

Richard introduces himself and his brother Jason to Batman. They explain how they were out looking for their younger brother. Batman looks into his eyes and knows they are orphans. This issue ends with Batman telling V2 they have another mission. Finding the boys’ youngest brother.

Analysis: This is the only story that does not say part one or has a “to be continued” at the end. Which, if true, is unfortunate because I really enjoyed this manga-style version of a Future State Batman story. It was fast-paced and super exciting to read. The choice to keep it black and white paid off. It said: please don’t take me too seriously and just go with it. We will have the Joker playing video game robots, and let’s give Batman his own flying robot bat sidekick. It was the right comic digest, fun, quick, and a touch off the beaten path to wrap it all up. With our first story being so dark and serious, I really liked how they ended with a story that isn’t supposed to be taken so seriously. The only setback I see is they should not have left the end open-ended if they do not plan on continuing.

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 15, episode 9 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Review: Batman #135/900. Greater Gotham covers Free Comic Book Day: Knight Terrors One-Shot, Poison Ivy #12, The Joker The Man Who Stopped Laughing #8, Batman and The Joker: The Deadly Duo #7, Spirit World #1, Multiversity Harley Screw Up The DCU #3, The Batman and Scooby-Doo Mysteries #8, Gotham Academy Maps of Mystery One-shot, Batman: White Knight Presents: Generation Joker #1, Batman Incorporated #8. What does 900 issues of Batman get us? What books in Greater Gotham are worthy of the thumbs up this month? These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at podcast@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on Twitter, or on our Discord server!

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It’s Thursday again, so that must mean that Ian and Steph met up recently to talk about the latest three episodes of Batman: Wayne Family Adventures! Were they good? Were they disappointing? Let’s find out with Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #82-84!

Steph: Holy Moly! Ian, I am so excited. Can you guess why?

Ian: I can guess, indeed! Is it TIME FOR MORE WFA?

Steph: Three GREAT episodes of WFA. Let’s start right off with #82, “Sneak Attack,” where we see Batman task Cass with testing the Bat-Family’s awareness. What did you think? Of the episode and of Cass’s willingness to do, and enjoyment of, the task.

Ian: This is the type of thing that really takes advantage of the WFA format while still being connected to the wider crimefighting good versus evil stuff that the mainstream comics do. Cass doing checkups/training of the Bat-Family on stealth is both hilarious and actually useful. And the way each family member reacts is very funny. Though I hope Cass gets Steph and Harper new sandwiches! So rude!

Steph: I know. My next question was going to be – whose reaction was your favorite? – but as I tried to decide, I COULDN’T! But if you forced me to, it would be a tie between Jason bribing the kid not to tell he failed and Steph using her burger as a useless range weapon.

Ian: I don’t know if I can pick either! Steph, of course, always stands out to me, but I think Bruce failing himself was pretty hilarious.

Steph: Yes. That was wonderful. I was wondering what Tim was doing. Do you think he’s taking extra school time instead of vigilante-ing?

Ian: Well, WFA has been really vague about most of the character ages, so I’m not 100% sure. Duke is in high school, and it SEEMS like Steph, Cass, and Tim are around the same age, but we never see any of them in school. Though I think it’s implied in a much earlier episode that Steph is in college…so…no clue, really! I could definitely see Tim being in college, though.

Steph: It is interesting that, because they are working as a team, some of the Bat-Family can take a night off, and it’s okay. I liked that. Doesn’t excuse you from field testing, though, apparently.

Ian: Tim needs to sleep more anyway, of course! (but that is probably true of the whole Bat-Family!)

Steph: I feel like that is his shtick in this series, for sure. Next, we have what I think is Hal Jordan’s introduction into the series (I could be wrong), #83, “Utility Belt.” This was a cute one.

Ian: He might have shown up in a background scene, like the Justice League clothing episode. But this was definitely the first time he had major lines and interactions, and it was HILARIOUS. As a longtime Batman fan, I, of course, knew where this was all going, but it built up to the punchline very well. And Hal and Bruce generally have a great relationship of rivalry and ribbing each other, so that was brilliant.

Steph: I thought it was a bit ridiculous, even for WFA, but I still really enjoyed all the perfectly timed gadgets Batman had in his belt. And yes, that punchline was great if you know the old Batman ’66 movie. I didn’t know the ribbing history! That’s perfect. I will say it’s a little gross Batman keeps dead fish in his belt.

Ian: (Well, I speak here as a casual fan of the wider DC universe – I don’t know if it’s always that way, but it felt like some other stories I’ve read). I mean, the dead fish are probably more like dried fish. You know, like having a doggy biscuit in your pocket or something?

Steph: Isn’t the Bat-sword in canon? I feel like I’ve made fun of an extendable sword in comics before.

Ian: I don’t recall one, but I did see a fan video of Tim Drake having a collapsible baton in his pocket! Extendable swords are extremely silly in any kind of realistic weapon construction.

Steph: So, a bit of psychology here. Do you think Hal is jealous, or what is his reasoning for thinking Batman “is the worst” for having all the perfect gadgets?

Ian: I think it’s a combination of jealousy and grudging respect. And also just the ridiculousness of someone always being prepared for situations that you shouldn’t be prepared for.

Steph: Yes! That all makes sense. Like…Hal can literally make a construct of anything, but Batman doesn’t need his help because he already has the perfect knick-knack in his Bat-pack. He probably feels a little shown up.

Ian: For sure! And I think a lot of League members who aren’t Superman or Wonder Woman likely feel the same.

Steph: And lastly, episode #84, “Field Test,” where we see Wally and Dick trying to come up with alternate carry options for speeders and heroes. I love the premise and execution of the episode, but I feel like the Bat-Family might have come up with some better ideas.

Ian: This was a completely different relationship between a Bat-Family member and a Justice League member, and I thought it was a great contrast to Bruce and Hal.

Steph: Oh yeah! There’s lots of love and respect here.

Ian: As a huge fan of the current Flash run by Jeremy Adams (everyone should go read it!), Wally’s humor and practicality were on point. What other ideas are you thinking of?

Steph: Not sure, but the Bat-Bjorn was a little silly (rightfully pointed out by Wally), and Toe-To-Toe was never going to work…other than in those kinds of fan-fictions.

Ian: haha. I think the ballet pose was actually best, but Wally’s arms would probably fall off holding Dick like that!

Steph: That’s what I was thinking. And apparently, so was Wally. Overall though, I had lots of fun and joy reading these. As much as I love the deeper and more emotional stories, these light-hearted but still relationship-centric stories in Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #82-84 make me happy. Which was your favorite? Or, did you have a favorite moment?

Ian: I can’t choose between Utility Belt and Field Test. The external relationships both add so much to the series, and the humor for both was very well executed!

Steph: I think I loved “Sneak Attack” most. I’m finding anything with Jason in it is my favorite.

Ian: This doesn’t have anything to do with you catching up on Red Hood: Outlaw?

Steph: No! Though I’m behind again. But I do enjoy that so much because of Jason. He’s just my favorite delinquent son.

Ian: We all have our favorites! I think my own preference for purple lady vigilantes has been well-known for a while!

Steph: yeah…see you next time?

Ian: Indeed!

Editor’s Note: You can find Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #82-84 and all other past chapters exclusively on the Webtoon platform. You can find all other reviews from the series here at The Batman Universe.

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In this latest episode, Dane and Tim are back to share reviews of one of their most anticipated movies and games of the year: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor!

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We all know Batman is perhaps DC’s most popular character for many, many decades. Ever since Batman premiered in 1989, Batman has been a box office juggernaut and has been DC’s cash cow on the comic book publishing side of things. And a big reason for the success of Batman has been Michael Keaton. Keaton wore the cape and cowl for two massively popular movies that many people point to as being their entry point for becoming a Batman fan. And this summer Michael Keaton is back in The Flash. And that only means one thing- TBU Five Things. You want Five Things! C’mon let’s do Five Things.

“I’m Batman”

This is probably the most memorable Michael Keaton Batman scene. Batman drops down on the muggers on the roof, kicks a guy through a wall, whips out a Batarang, and drops the famous line that has been quoted and paid homage to countless times. We heard him say it in that first trailer for The Flash.

A few years ago, Keaton gave the commencement speech at his alma mater Kent State University. Upon receiving a plaque, Keaton left the crowd with two final words- “I’m Batman.” Just pure awesomeness.

The Batmobile Chase and the Alley Fight

A lot of this is the totality of Burton, the Batmobile, and the Elfman score, but it is a great Keaton action sequence. Keaton’s Batman is a man of few words, but it adds to his mystique. It has always been one of my favorite parts of the film when Batman just says “shields” and puts those shields on the car. And the way he stands there as the Batmobile is on autopilot and stops it an inch in front of him and doesn’t flinch. Keaton’s Batman was in total control.

His Bruce Wayne

Michael Keaton played Bruce Wayne unlike any actor before or since. You can tell that the death of his parents consumes him, and he doesn’t care about much else other than being Batman. We see him at the start of the party in Batman when he doesn’t know how to talk to people. He is just killing time until he can get back down into the cave and put on the cowl. In Batman Returns, we see a little more of his Bruce Wayne with Selina and Schreck. In The Flash trailers, we see Bruce talking to Barry about the death of his parents, and I think we’re going to see Keaton go a little bit more in-depth on it.

Brooding Bruce

This is one of my favorite Batman/Bruce Wayne moments. We first see Keaton in Batman Returns brooding in Wayne Manor. The Bat-signal hits and shines into the library, and Keaton just stands up into the light as that Elfman score swells up. Batman then hops into the Batmobile and takes out the Red Triangle Circus Gang without breaking a sweat.

Bruce and Selina

At its core, Batman Returns is a pretty good Bat/Cat story. Take out the goofy parts of the film but focus on Batman and Catwoman, and you can get a lot out of it. It is a story about two tortured souls with dark backstories that only feel free and their true selves when they have their masks on. That is evident in the costume ball, as everyone has their masks on except for Bruce and Selina. Keaton delivers at the end of the film when he is trying to stop Selina from killing Max. Bruce rips that fruit roll-up of a mask off and tries to tell Selina that they can just arrest Max and head home to enjoy Christmas. Unfortunately for Bruce, Selina was too focused on revenge and not justice.

I am very excited about the return of Batman, played by Michael Keaton. I think this movie is going to deliver and deliver big. Keaton will be a huge part of it. From what we have seen in the trailer, Keaton has been a standout. To see him in the new all-black Bat-suit, saying “I’m Batman,” and flying the Batwing. Never in our wildest dreams did we ever think we would see this. Let’s get nuts.

The post TBU Five Things: Michael Keaton as Batman appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Greetings, Gothamites! In episode 35, we look at chapters “The Joker and the Profiler” (the profiler really doesn’t know what they’re getting into, do they?) and “Telltale Tattoo.” Join Layne and Professor Alan as they discuss Professor Alan’s fanfic account, Nightwing and Daredevil’s juggling act, and how long Layne would last in Gotham (hint: not long).

Happy reading!

(knock-knock) Housekeeping!
You can contact me via email at darkknightprose@gmail.com, batmanbooks on the Dreamwidth website, or BatmanBooksPodcast on Instagram. The guest co-host for this book is Professor Alan, who can be found on Twitter under Relatively_Geek. Copyright-free music and sound effects can be found on YouTube.

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Overview: The Joker attempts to make his way to Gotham, accompanied by yet another criminal, united by their common goal to kill the Red Hood in The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing #8.

Editor’s Note: Due to the anthology nature of this collection, we will feature a synopsis and analysis for each story rather than breaking up the synopsis and analysis. Spoilers are sure to be revealed.

Story #1: “The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing ” Part 8 by writer Matthew Rosenberg and artist Carmine Di Giandomenico

Synopsis: The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing #8 begins below the streets of Gotham, where the last issue left off, as the Joker manages to drag an unconscious Solomon Grundy from the murky sewage water. The un-dead monster slowly comes to and reveals to the Joker that his attacker, an alligator, is trying to hunt down the supposed Prince of Crime and got mad at Grundy when he withheld the Joker’s location.

Meanwhile, in the Los Angeles River, the Joker struggles to claw his way toward the air, prevented from doing so by Manhunter. According to her, this is something Batman should have done years ago.

The arrival of some civilians momentarily distracts her, however, which provides the Joker with just enough opportunity to stab her in the neck with a broken beer bottle. He takes off down the streets of L.A., trying to hail down someone to give him a ride to the airport so he can finally leave this awful city. Manhunter, however, isn’t done with him, and the pursuit leads to the Joker getting his head bashed into a car windshield multiple times until it breaks (the windshield, not his head). Manhunter’s plans to repeat the motion a few more times are brought to a halt when she’s knocked aside by someone flying down from the sky. Killer Moth has arrived to join the party.

Back in Gotham, Killer Croc hunts through the sewers, stalking down his prey. His keen sense of smell leads him to discover a man–an inspector for Gotham Light and Power– tied to a pole. He came down to work on the gas lines and was taken captive and forced to wear the Joker’s rags as a way to lure Killer Croc in. Too little too late does Killer Croc put the pieces together, and before either one of them can move, a lighter is tossed into the air.

The entire place goes up in a massive explosion, and seconds after, Killer Croc is restrained in barbed wire. Even this, however, doesn’t manage to fully prevent Killer Croc from biting the man’s arm, and the Joker takes off running, yet his escape patters off to an end as he collapses into the cloudy sewage.

In LA, the streets are once again full of chaos as Killer Moth and Manhunter go at it while the Joker goads them both on. The fight finally ends with Manhunter falling off a bridge and Killer Moth and the Joker striking yet another deal. It was Killer Moth who was hired by the Joker to tell the Red Hood where to find the other Joker, but that led to Killer Moth getting shot, which, as one would predict, he was not happy with. Now, however, the Joker and Killer Moth are working together once again for a new goal; head back to Gotham first to kill the Red Hood and then go and kill the Joker’s imposter. The two of them, and the corps of Joker’s favorite henchman, Mr. Waffles, steal a car and head out, making their way toward Gotham.

In Gotham, the transport of Jason Todd from Gotham to Blackgate is in progress. As they begin moving Jason into an armored truck, a blond woman approaches the officers asking for directions to the Blowout Lounge, where she’s supposed to meet a friend in ten minutes. After getting scolded by the officers for being where she shouldn’t be, the lady walks away and, once out of sight, removes the blond wig from her head. Barbara Gordon relays to someone on her cellphone the details about the prison transportation; be ready to go in eight minutes. The voice on the other end thanks her and ends the call with a final comment about getting their boy back.

Analysis: It’s safe to say that pretty much no one stays dead these days. Manhunter’s attempts to stop the Joker from razing the streets of LA end somewhat explosively and with the clown in question getting away with the help of Killer Moth. The two criminals manage to begin the trek to Gotham, united by their common goal of…killing more people.

Meanwhile, Solomon Grundy and the ‘other’ Joker manage to successfully deal with a rather put-out Killer Croc, who’s definitely not having the best day. It’s contagious because shortly after, the Joker collapses before he can fully escape, most likely due to the fact that he was nursed back to health with sewage water and is probably still not back to full health. Up above the nasty Gotham sewers, Jason Todd’s impending captivity and predicted death (shanked in jail, never gets old) might just be avoided by the aid of his family members. The appearance of Batgirl in this issue and the concern for their estranged sibling was a nice element to see in this issue and probably the most interesting moment in The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing #8 to me.

Overall, it doesn’t feel like there’s a ton to comment on in this issue; the Joker once again is able to walk away from what should have been several life-ending injuries–a rabid car chase, near death by drowning, breaking a windshield with his face, getting impaled in the shoulder, just to name a few. The Red Hood is once again being hunted by the man he’s hunting (some people just really can’t let go of a grudge), and beyond this, the story’s plot hasn’t progressed much. We’re giving Manhunter’s endeavors at stopping the Joker and possibly killing him, although (seemingly) ineffective, an ‘A’ for effort.

Story #2: “No More Mr. Nice Guys!” by writer Matthew Rosenberg and artist Francesco Francavilla

Synopsis: The backup in The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing #8 sees the Joker’s attempt at entrepreneurship and his business, ‘arson-on–demand’ doesn’t go over too well with Hawkgirl, who calls him a pathetic loser. Several sleepless nights later, the Joker knows something needs to change and that he can’t sustain a constant war between good and evil, right and wrong. It does nothing but hurt people. And so that night, he completes his work on his latest invention; a machine that can read brain wave patterns and detect whether someone is a good or bad person. The perfect invention to change the whole world as the Joker will use it to kill all the good people.

The next day, at a nuclear weapons site, the Joker is stopped by Hal Jordan, a Green Lanterns officer, but the interaction is short-lived when his head explodes. The Joker’s device really does work. Over the course of the next few weeks, Justice League members everywhere are killed and left headless after the Joker’s invention does its work. Weeks later, the Joker’s invention completes its work and leaves the world full of bad people, who begin turning on and killing each other. Now, no one can rob any banks because everyone is robbing banks. Realizing the drawbacks of his invention, the Joker decides to try and do something different and make all the people–his people–happy. Even deranged creeps need to be entertained, right?

The next day at Haly’s circus, the Joker realizes how wrong he was as the crowd continues to jeer at him, calling him, once again, a pathetic loser.

Analysis: Yet another of the Jokre’s nefarious plans is sabotaged by…the Joker himself, this time when his plan of ridding the world of all the good people only leaves all the bad people. As one can imagine, this plan doesn’t work out too well when chaos reigns free and survival of the fittest rules the world. Hawkgirl calling him a sorry loser clearly struck a chord, and yet the story comes full circle as the Joker ends up right where he started; a sorry excuse of a comedian and getting booed off the stage by his unimpressed audience.

This might be the first issue that doesn’t leave me grimacing in distaste at the weirdness of the story, however, so that’s a nice departure from the norm. Let’s hope for extra side stories like this one going forward!

The post Review: The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing #8 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Overview: In Batman #135, Batman chases proto-Joker Darwin Halliday throughout the multiverse while running into some unexpected surprises.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Batman #135 begins in the subterranean world of Arkham beneath this Elseworlds Gotham City, as Batman climbs up from the ground and wraps the bloody stump where his right hand once was. He stumbles out, searching for Red Mask, also known as Darwin Halliday and this universe’s Joker.

On the streets of Gotham, Halliday’s plan B (Batman stopped plan A in Batman #134) is in full motion. “Leatherwings” carrying gas fly around the city, infecting citizens with multiversal poison. Jewel and Selina Kyle, both wearing gas masks, fight the Man-Bat-sized Leatherwings.

Below, Batman cauterizes his wound. Meanwhile, Darwin and this world’s Punchline use the multiversal energy created by the poisoned citizens to power up a machine that will transform Darwin into a true Joker like his multiversal counterparts.

At Athena Tower, a building owned by Halliday, this world’s Alfred Pennyworth tries to contact his wife, Dr. Leslie Thompkins, to no avail. While the wealthy socialize safely indoors, Alfred attacks the guards keeping them in, steals a gun, and plans to head outside, so he can save as many Gotham citizens as possible, including his wife.

Darwin prepares to use his machine, which now has enough power to send him directly to the moment when Joker was created instead of just inside of the mind of one of his multiversal counterparts. Darwin uses the machine, transporting to the moment when Joker first took off his Red Hood mask in The Killing Joke. Instead of a cackling Joker, Darwin sees himself reflected back. Suddenly, Darwin is propelled back to his own Gotham unchanged.

Batman fights his way through Darwin’s Arkham guards while Catwoman and Jewel continue to battle Leatherwings up above. Firefly joins the battle, called to aid by Selina. While they barely hold on, Alfred opens the doors to Athena Tower, letting the citizens below rush to safety.

Back at Halliday’s headquarters, Darwin gets word that the machine is ready to use again. He prepares himself, letting it be known that while he’s admired and loved in this world, he wants to tap into his full potential as a Joker beyond love and hate, someone who is the epitome of obsession.

Darwin gets back in the machine, transporting once more to that puddle in the rain. He tells Joker that he wants to break the way Joker breaks, and Joker fires back that maybe it was Darwin who broke the Joker with his “needs.” Just then, three Jokers walk away from the puddle in the rainstorm (which is a nice reference to Three Jokers by Geoff Johns and Jason Fabok).

Darwin unhooks himself from the machine, shocked and appalled at what just happened. He tells Punchline that he can’t become the Joker. He merely creates them. Just then, Batman enters, knocking out Punchline. Batman realizes he could help the would-be henchgirl to Joker, but he’s just as obsessed as Darwin is. The two battle, but Darwin is now empowered with multiversal energy, making him lightning-quick.

When Batman tells Darwin that he’s crossed worlds to stop him, Halliday responds that his job is to make Jokers with Batman, that if it weren’t for Batman, there would be no Joker. When Halliday tries to dig that verbal knife in, Batman tells him that he’s learned from this world that one without Batman is still full of monsters.

Alfred, Jewel, and Selina enter the room, tying up Punchline. Darwin runs through his machine and enters the multiverse. Batman coaxes information from Punchline by treating her with kindness and uses that information to learn how to track Darwin.

Batman has a moment with this world’s Alfred. Alfred tells Batman that he can’t do it alone, to which Bruce asks his Elseworld’s father figure to join him, saying that he needs guidance away from the dark. Alfred can’t leave this world. Here, he has a purpose and a city to save, and he can team up with Jewel to save it.

Selina then approaches Batman, asking him why he didn’t ask her to join him. Batman tells her that he has a Selina but that he can’t end his crusade until injustice and crime end. Before Batman can prepare to enter the multiverse safely, Selina kicks him, disappointed with his answer. Batman flies through the multiversal without his safety belt, using only a tracker to find Darwin as Batman #135 continues.

First, Batman lands in the world of Batman ‘89. Joker has been revived, and Batman meets with his Michael Keaton counterpart. Before the two can talk much, Batman is then thrust into another dimension, this one of the famous Batman: Red Rain storyline where Batman and Joker become vampires. A revived vampire Joker and Batman tangle, but then once more, Batman is thrust through a series of dimensions, touching upon the Arkhamverse games, Batman: The Animated Series, Silver Age Batman, and Batman Beyond. In the Beyond universe, Batman meets with an elder Bruce Wayne who gives him a holt disc that will send him back to his universe when the time is right. It’s also in this universe where Batman has fully realized that Darwin is resurrecting Jokers throughout universes where Batman has been freed of his arch-enemy, locking them once more in an eternal battle. Before the two can confer much longer, a revived Joker Beyond breaks into the Batcave, and Batman is once more thrust into the multiverse.

Batman hops through the New Adventures of Batman and Robin, Kingdom Come, Injustice, and the world of the 60s TV show. Connected to each Bruce Wayne, Batman meets with all of them briefly, realizing that the resurrected Jokers are worse and more sadistic than ever. In the 60s universe, an Adam West Batman hands him a utility belt.

Batman leaps once more, landing in the world of Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns. Batman tussles with an older version of himself before he can tell his otherworld self that he’s here to help. This older Batman gives Bruce a new hand and a new uniform.

Batman leaps once more, finding Darwin in some destroyed Gotham City where a Joker shark swims around at the end of the multiverse. The shark eats these remnants of Gotham, symbolizing Darwin being consumed by his thoughts of the Joker. Darwin sends Joker “fish” at Batman. Bruce battles against them, digging into his utility belt given to him by his 60s counterpart only to find shark repellant, which saves the day.

After defeating the shark, Batman then confronts Darwin. He tells Darwin his realization. Without Batman, Joker would always be evil. There would always be a sad, pathetic man committed to the act of destruction and obsession, just without the gimmicky outfit. Batman knocks Darwin out and then uses that holt disc to send Halliday back to his own universe.

Alone at last, Batman is at the end of the multiverse. He realizes that these last few years, he has been slipping. A light illuminates the darkness, and Robin (Tim Drake) arrives. Batman and Robin hug, and Bruce thanks Tim for rescuing him once more.

Analysis: Batman #135 is both an effective and beautiful conclusion to the “Bat-Man of Gotham” arc, as well as a fantastic celebration of all things Batman for his 900th issue. It’s also a zany multiversal trip that takes a few reads to grasp fully, but at its core, the message is simple. Batman is a symbol of hope, justice, and a never-ending battle against crime. While Joker is the antithesis, a polar opposite figure of obsession, he doesn’t exist because Batman exists. Without the Caped Crusader, Joker would always exist in some other form, and the world of Gotham City would still be full of monsters.

Writer Chip Zdarsky and the artists of Batman #135, Mike Hawthorne, Jorge Jimenez, and Mikel Janin, deliver a thesis statement that shows Batman as a self-sacrificing hero who can never settle down and be happy because of his obsessive war on crime. However, he has the potential to change the world, and in this issue, literally set Darwin Halliday’s universe right by inspiring a new generation of heroes. With his training and inspiration from the Robins, Batman, in turn, can be saved and rescued from the darkness by those motivated by his good deeds. It’s no coincidence that the Robin chosen to save Batman at the end of this issue was Tim Drake. Tim was the one who helped bring Batman back to the light after Jason Todd’s death, and in this issue, his saving of Batman is more than just multiversal displacement. It’s thinly veiled symbolism for Tim once more saving Batman from the brink.

In recent issues, we’ve seen Batman grapple with his more violent other self, the Batman of Zur-En-Arrh. This also comes on the heels, still, of Batman dealing with the loss of Alfred and the wedding that never was with Catwoman. It would seem that finally, these years later, from those landmark moments, the creative team of Batman is ending that chapter and ushering back a hero who sacrifices to inspire and heal others.

Apart from the overt metaphor, Batman #135 is an issue rife with references. The creative team found a way to weave in so many beloved generations of “Batmen” without it feeling ham-fisted or shoe-horned. There’s a reference for just about any Batman fan here, one that serves as a reminder of how and why they fell in love with the character. It’s truly a refreshing celebration for the 900th issue, and it’s one that inspires hope and a bright future instead of more grim-dark musings about vengeance.

If there is one thing to knock Batman #135 for, it’s the art. Three artists pencil this issue, and it shows, especially Janin’s. Each one has an exemplary style and tone unique from the others, but when transitions happen, it’s super noticeable. The transitions aren’t handled in a way that fits into the story narratively speaking, either. That said, it’s a minor gripe in an otherwise spectacular issue.

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 15, episode 8 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast, as Steph adventures in the land of the Rising Sun! Review: Detective Comics #1071! Greater Gotham covers Nightwing #103, Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #14, Catwoman #54, Batgirls #17, DCeased: War of the Undead Gods #8, Harley Quinn #29, Tim Drake: Robin #8, DC Silent Tales #1. What grave mistake does Ian make? Why can’t DC Comics make its Detective Comics comic title have one artist per arc or even issue? These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at podcast@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on Twitter, or on our Discord server!

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Overview: In Harley Quinn #29, Harley searches for answers to her multiversal problems leading her to Zatanna, while the backup features Bud and Lou.

Story #1: “Girl in a Crisis” Part 2 by writer Tini Howard and artist Sweeney Boo

Synopsis: As Harley Quinn #29 begins, Tashana, the Lady Quark, returns home to Earth-38. She enjoys time with her family and discusses her plans for Earth-0. Back on that earth, Bud and Lou wake Harley at 05:00. She feeds them and waters with pride the one plant Ivy left in the apartment.

She realizes through a web search that Zatanna can assist her with her multiversal problems. She heads over with a latte, and the girls gab. Harley explains to Zatanna that she’s been experiencing a lot of coincidences that she is now wondering about – might they be connected to her multiversal issues? Zatanna offers to cast a spell of interdimensional protection but warns her that to complete the ward, Harley must sacrifice something alive.

Harley considers the problem of what or whom to sacrifice over the next few days. She alights upon “Two-Face” as the possible answer and goes after him but abandons her intentions mid-effort. She lights the Bat-Signal and sits down for coffee and a donut with the Dark Knight himself. Batman gives Harley insight, and she realizes what she must sacrifice. She smashes her beloved plant. After a few moments, Bud and Lou begin speaking to her in plain English. Harley startles and runs away, but they assure her they mean only to protect her.

Analysis: Although the arc remains weak, it is a relief to note that there are some better moments in part II of the narrative than seen in the last issue. The Bat-Family makes an appearance with the Caped Crusader himself, and the conversation between him and Harley is actually both sweet and authentic. Batman is as gruff and aloof as ever, which makes him believable. Yet he still manages to offer someone as brilliant as Harley real insight, and the moment feels authentic and poignant. Some of Harley’s dialogue is also genuinely funny, which matters because Harley is genuinely funny, so it is important to get this right.

Part II of the story slows down and also tries to fill in some of the blanks. While this helps with explanation, it does not strengthen some of the preposterousness of the story itself, which remains something to be merely tolerated. Sweeney Boo’s art remains the strong suit of the run so far; it’s hard to imagine a style more perfectly suited for our hero.

Story #2: “Hyena Anxiety” by writer and artist Adam Warren

Synopsis: The backup in Harley Quinn #29 sees Bud and Lou start talking to Harley as they reveal they’ve trashed her on social media with a tell-all memoir. Apparently, they are agents of Lord Chaos and then transform into “sexeh, sexeh furries.” The sequence gets even more bizarre until Harley wakes up and confirms that Bud and Lou are incapable of speech. She leaves the room, at which point Bud and Lou do, in fact, converse with each other in plain English.

Analysis: This could be one of the most asinine stories I have ever read in a TBU comic. There is no justification for the Harley Quinn book containing a backup.

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In this latest episode, Dane and Tim kick off their discussion with some Baseball talk, as Dane shares an update on his status as an Oakland A’s fan. They also talk about the upcoming video games they’ll be playing this year, The Mandalorian season 3 finale, and Tim gives a review of the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers 30th-anniversary special, Once and Always!

The post Episode 254 appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Overview: In Detective Comics #1071, Talia tells Batman of the feud between the al Ghul and Orgham families, and Vandal Savage makes a bloody move far away from Gotham.

Story #1: “Gotham Nocturne: Act II: Lost Sands” by writer Ram V and artists Stefano Raffaele, Ivan Reis, and Eduardo Pansica

Synopsis: As Detective Comics #1071 begins, Batman radios Oracle as the Orgham Place Grand Opening starts, saying that what he learned from Talia has accelerated his plans. Nightwing and Cassandra Cain Batgirl flank Bruce, and he sends Dick to overwatch and Cass underground, going after the Reality Engine himself.

Flashing back to Talia’s hidden base, we learn of her connection to the Orghams. Prince Arzen’s father was from the deserts, and his mother from the cities, and she plotted against him once Arzen was born, sending him on a fatal mission to retrieve her people’s lost city, with his bodyguard Ra’s al Ghul instructed to assassinate him.

In the present, Arzen’s mother, Dariah, meets with her mother in Svatrstal, in the Orgham Royal Palace. The Orgham grandmother has a glowing crystal stuck in her skull, giving her prophetic powers, and she hears her death coming in the shape of Vandal Savage.

We flashback to Talia’s tale, as Arzen’s father finds the city, slaughtering its guards, then learns the secret that the city was lost on purpose to prevent its great magical treasures from being used for evil.

In the present, Vandal Savage rips the prophecy crystal from the Orgham grandmother’s skull, killing her, then leaves, promising to meet the Orgham family in their final battle in Gotham.

Talia’s tale ends, and she says her father stole the creation of the Lazarus Pits from the Lost City after killing Arzen’s father and betraying Dariah, passing the al Ghul/Orgham feud to his daughter. Talia warns Bruce he will need to choose between the monster Bat and the human Man.

In Gotham, Bruce fights the Orgham soldiers in the sewers, as Prince Arzen begins the ceremony with the Reality Engine.

Analysis: Ram V finishes up the backstory of the entwined and feuding strands of the al Ghul and Orgham families begun last issue, as the Orgham plan appears to kick into their endgame – but he also sets up not one, but two dangerous challengers to that plan in Batman and Vandal Savage. While it seems a bit odd to bring in Savage near the end of the second arc, the long timeframe of these almost immortal characters does make him fit nicely. The pacing of Batman’s attack on the Orghams is jarring after the contemplative, thoughtful nature of the last issue. All in all, the writing of the main story in Detective Comics #1071 is once again rich and emotionally effective, and it’s nice that the villains are finally becoming actual characters rather than designs we see doing violence.

It’s still really frustrating that DC and/or Ram V have chosen to scatter his pages with three artists – only the extremely high quality of all three artists prevents that frustration from becoming an actual negative on the book. Eduardo Pansica provides much of the flashback story, while Ivan Reis primarily draws the present-day Orgham material, and Stefano Raffaele draws the opening and closing Batman scenes. The styles blend well with each other, but it continues to boggle my mind that DC’s highest-numbered book doesn’t make it a priority to have a single artist on a monthly title. Perhaps this allows them to give a more consistent blended flavor of art to the run, but it seems very far from ideal.

Story #2: “Absolute” Part 3 by writer Simon Spurrier and artist Caspar Wijngaard

Synopsis: The backup in Detective Comics #1071 opens with Gordon’s Lost Boy helping Dr. Mead free of Mr. Freeze’s ice, and she screams “Behind you” as Freeze attacks. As they fight, Dr. Mead gets free and yells at them to stop, holding a grenade to make Freeze stop. She lectures Freeze and kicks him in the fork, but Freeze says the machine isn’t for his wife, but for himself, to try to make himself more worthy of his wife, then freezes them out of his lab. The boy leads Dr. Mead to the surface as Mr. Freeze finds the convergence of the mystical energies he’s been tracing – Arkham.

Analysis: Si Spurrier and Caspar Wijngaard wrap up their Mr. Freeze-focused backups, developing further what Ram V set up in the main story, progressing the classic Batman villain closer to the confrontation at Arkham, which must be brewing. In that respect, it’s nicely crafted – and Wijngaard’s art is very appealing, almost candy-colored, with well-judged lines and excellent expressions, and decent action. Spurrier, however, goes from painting Dr. Mead as a sympathetic, terrified victim to an obnoxious, preachy, self-righteous author avatar. Though Mr. Freeze’s pushback does salvage part of the story, Dr. Mead is unbearably annoying and pompous in a way that contrasts with Mr. Freeze’s overblown, narcissistic poetical pomposity – but I’m pretty sure not intentionally. Her arrogance and condescension toward her rescuer paints her as a terminally ungrateful jerk and really ruins the effect of the story. Perhaps it’s realistic, but the way Spurrier’s tendencies to preach at his audience peek out from her dialogue really rubs me completely the wrong way. The near complete lack of development or explanation of Earworm, the seemingly spiritual villain revealed in the first part of the story, doesn’t help the piece feel any more complete – though since this is, of course, an ongoing part of the Ram V/Spurrier narrative, I’m sure he’ll show up again. But it’s very unbalanced.

Evan Cagle’s main cover is once again a lovely, sketchy, symbolically constructed work, with Batman, Talia, and Arzen’s father and Ra’s framed intertwined with each other, along with a Batarang silhouette. Ivan Reis’s cardstock variant shows a bloody and ragged Bruce/Batman holding a seemingly fainting Talia. Kelley Jones paints a big-eared Batman holding a candle against a red cobweb (with teeth!) backdrop (this image also serves as the foil 1 in 50 incentive variant). Sebastien Fiumara’s 1 in 25 incentive shows Catwoman stealing pearls from INSIDE of Batman through his hollow Batsymbol – a really creepy image garnished with falling roses.

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Trigger Warning: Discussions on gun violence, gun safety, and gun control. Guest-starring Ian Miller! MARIJUANA! Which Bat-Family member would take a hit? Listen and find out! Ian and I cover Stephanie Brown’s extended tenure as Robin in Robin #126-128 (2004) as well as her appearances in Batgirl #53-54 (2004). After the break, we review Batgirls #17. “Shag’s Mac and Cheese of Comfort and Joy,” listener emails, anime watchlist, and literature recommendations also appear.

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Overview: In Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #14, Superman, Robin, and Batman uncover a plot that goes much deeper than the “murder” of Simon Stagg.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): In Los Angeles, what appears to be Metamorpho threatens to murder a villain named Doc Dread.

Meanwhile, Superman communicates with Batman from the Fortress of Solitude. Batman, sitting in the Batcave, is upset that Jimmy Olsen and Clark Kent wrote that article accusing him of murdering Simon Stagg (see Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #13), but Superman notes that not even he could have convinced Perry White or Jimmy of Bruce Wayne’s innocence.

Though Bruce is clearly upset, his conversation with Superman is sympathetic. Both make their case, though Bruce, at first, confesses that he believes Clark’s blunder has hobbled Batman. However, the real killer feeling at ease may have given both of the heroes an advantage. When Batman tells Superman that it would be nice for Big Blue to have a detective, Superman notes that he already has a detective at his disposal — Robin (Dick Grayson).

Just then, Oliver Queen calls for Bruce Wayne, asking about artificial intelligence from Waynetech’s R&D department. Bruce, taken aback that Queen, who has rejected their industries previously working together, digs for information, then ends the call.

On their way to investigate, Robin rides on Superman’s back, looking at updates on Metamorpho’s villains. Doc Dread, from the opening of the issue, was found beaten up in Southern California, and some other villain named Stingaree was arrested in Nicaragua. Robin deduces that Metamorpho (Rex Mason) must be heading south, projecting Venezuela as their next destination, which is the home of El Matanzas and his “robot army.”

In Venezuela, Metamorpho is busting up El Matanzas’ automatons. Superman joins the fight against the machines while Robin ropes up the villain. El Matanzas confesses that the robots are malfunctioning and going rogue, but Robin doesn’t believe it. Meanwhile, Superman and Metamorpho are putting out fires caused by the machines and saving civilians. Before Metamorpho can turn his abilities toward the villain, Superman intervenes.

Rex Mason tells Superman that he’s been looking for which goon Wayne paid to frame Metamorpho. Superman tells him that Wayne did no such thing.

Meanwhile, Bruce gets in contact with other industrialists about a business venture. Clark Kent and Rex Mason both head back to the United States to attend Simon Stagg’s funeral, which Clark covers in The Daily Planet.

Bruce calls Clark, revealing that he’s been calling dozens of business magnates. Each one doesn’t sound like themselves, especially Oliver Queen, who would never have an interest in artificial intelligence. Clark then uses his x-ray vision to look at Stagg’s body, noting that it isn’t a human cadaver in the coffin.

Batman, Superman, Robin, and Metamorpho convene together, and Batman lays out that all of the replaced billionaires’ bank accounts have been funneled into an offshore account. He believes that they’re dealing with Profess Anthony Ivo, creator of Amazo.

In the Allegheny Mountains, Superman and Robin bust into an android lab, where they find a partially completed duplicate of Bruce Wayne. Suddenly, a bunch of Ivo’s machines turn on, threatening to kill Robin.

Meanwhile, Batman and Metamorpho travel to upstate New York in search of Dr. Will Magnus, a genius who invented the Metal Men and created the ability to give robots personalities. At the lab, Batman sees signs of a struggle and one missing Magnus. Something in a vat of burning chemicals cries out for help, and it must be the Metal Men.

Back in the mountains, Superman and Robin bear witness to Ivo’s greatest creation — a doppelganger that can mimic the powers of Metamorpho and so much more!

Analysis: Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #14 rushes the murder mystery set up in the previous issue to its penultimate conclusion. The art from Dan Mora and Tamra Bonvillain, as always, make this series shine. Each panel is gorgeous and eye-catching, and the two can make even the smallest moments sparkle. A back-and-forth between Batman in the Batcave and Superman in the Fortress of Solitude can feel poetic and like a wonderful visual treat. A funeral with Clark Kent’s newspaper article overlaid can strike a somber yet reminiscent lightness of the Silver Age with ease.

The art is simply wonderful, but this second part of what is presumably now a three-part story felt like an exposition dump. In the final few pages of the last issue, Bruce Wayne was just accused of murder. In this issue, Bruce is “sidelined,” but it doesn’t come across that way to the reader. Rather, he hangs around the Batcave and Wayne Manor for a bit, then suits up when the team of heroes quickly realizes that billionaires are being replaced by android duplicates. This wouldn’t be a dealbreaker if the story hinged on something other than the plot. However, unlike the last issue, which balanced itself on the intriguing plot and the difference between Superman and Batman’s approaches to those accused of a crime, this follow-up is solely plot-driven.

As a result, the rushed, low-stakes discovery of the true culprit is a little lackluster. If it weren’t for the awe-inspiring art from Mora and Bonvillain, this issue would thud under the weight of its rushed investigation. There are no real trials. No queries or problems that take longer than two seconds to solve. Bruce, despite being accused of murder, is just hanging around until Superman lets him don the cape and cowl again. At one point, Superman and Batman even make a joke about how quickly Wayne was out on bail. It really kills the excitement of what should be an engaging team, and compared to the rest of this incredible series from writer Mark Waid and team, Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #14 comes up short.

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Overview: The final arc of Batgirls opens in Batgirls #17 with Steph and Cass relaxing and having fun, but they are violently interrupted by a terrifying sniper attack.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Batgirls #17 begins, Grace O’Halloran, sporting her eyepatch, interviews Gotham district the Hill residents for the Aparo Park Jubilee but is frustrated that none of them are locals, muttering about gentrification and how no one gives the Batgirls credit for making the Hill safer. Steph, Cass, and Kyle Mizoguchi are out for the Jubilee, and Cass drags Steph off to dance. Their jubilant Jubileeing is tragically interrupted by a gunshot, and Steph herds the civilians into Mr. Dhaliwal’s bookshop for safety, then the Batgirls change and seek out the sniper. They find Grace’s cameraman shot by the sniper, and while Steph gives him CPR, Cass seeks out the gunman.

Later, Commissioner Montoya is briefed by Office Brooks, then talks to the Batgirls. Cass and Steph train intensely to catch the sniper. Steph reveals that after being shot (and briefly killed, see Batgirls #15) by her dad, her anxiety about catching the shooter is much stronger.

That night, as Grace has an alcoholic relapse in grief at her friend and cameraman’s critical condition, the Batgirls stakeout the rooftops, then decide to break up an illegal gun sale by the Hill’s Angels (to an undercover, drunk, and frightened Grace). Steph tries to get them to go home in a combined show of force (batarang disarms) and reason (appealing to their better nature), but the frightened gang isn’t backing down. Things look ugly, but suddenly, the sniper attacks again. Cass saves a gang member, but they fire back wildly. The Batgirls kick the gang into an empty grave and tie them up, as Oracle cuts the lights and helps them out as mission control. Steph runs as a distraction for the sniper as Cass runs towards the shooter. She makes it to the sniper’s nest but only finds three bullets and a note ominously saying, “One for each Batgirl.”

Analysis: In the first issue released after the news that the Batgirls series is ending at issue #19 (though the recent solicitation for the Knight Terrors: Nightwing two issue miniseries in July and August revealed that Cloonan and Conrad are writing that book and including the Batgirls, so potentially that could be counted as issues #20-21 of Batgirls. Hey, I’ll take what I can get!), we get a nicely constructed first of three issues pitting the Batgirls against a terrifying sniper threat. The tone seen in Batgirls #17 has finally settled on the kind of sweet melancholy that Cloonan and Conrad are most comfortable with and most skilled at evoking, in contrast with the slightly manic attempt at mimicking DC Super Hero Girls that slightly marred the first couple of arcs. The narration boxes have found a much better rhythm and amount – helping out for wordless scenes like the intensely passionate dance scene opening the story but not interfering in serious moments like the final scene of the Hill’s Angels and the sniper in the graveyard. Steph and Cass are clearly professionals by this point – managing crowds, facing terrifying threats, communicating well, and performing intense feats of derring-do, like Steph distracting a sniper while Cass races to attack the sniper’s nest.

Cloonan and Conrad mentioned in various locations that they wanted to show the impact of new people moving to a neighborhood, both positive and negative, and in their work with recurring figures like Grace O’Halloran and the Hill’s Angels gang, they’ve really gotten some interesting thoughts down. The Batgirls have made things safer and attracted new residents, but that makes locals like Grace and the Angels both happy and irritated. We don’t know for sure what the sniper’s motivations are (solicitations and covers indicate that classic Chuck Dixon villains Gunhawk and Gunbunny, as well as one of the Saints from the first arc – potentially indicating rewrites once the cancellation of the title came down), but there’s a chance given the ominous note that the Batgirls brought them down on The Hill, similar to Christopher Nolan’s idea of escalation from Batman Begins and The Dark Knight. All in all, Cloonan and Conrad are paying off a lot of threads they’ve set up throughout the series, and hopefully, it will wrap up nicely for our wonderful heroines.

Robbi Rodriguez, the occasional artist throughout the series, turns in one of his better books here. His art, enhanced nicely by Rico Renzi’s neon green and pink-dominated coloring, has a nice balance of loose energy and clean and appealing linework, unlike issues #7-8, where the looseness overwhelmed the appeal of the lines. Rodriguez enhances the emotions of each scene – the wistful passion of the opening party, Grace’s terror and grief, and the sheer overwhelming danger of the sniper scenes. Though not anywhere close to my favorite artist of the run, Rodriguez definitely has done excellent work on this issue and hopefully will keep it up for the next two.

Jorge Corona, though he only drew the first six issues of the series (plus the three ten-page short backups in Batman during Fear State), has drawn all nineteen main covers of this run – quite the achievement. And most of them are really good – including Batgirls #17, featuring Steph, Cass, and Babs stacked up in front of the Clocktower face, each with a unique expression nicely highlighting their characters. David Marquez, in the second of his four cover series for this run, digitally paints and colors a gorgeous Stephanie Brown against a bright gold background, walking towards the camera in a mid-length shot with body language exuding confidence. Interior artist Robbi Rodriguez provides the 1 in 25 incentive variant, with a visor-clad Steph crouching in front of a standing Cass wearing bat-ear headphones, a nice nod to the dance scene inside.

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Love audio dramas? Then you won’t want to miss today’s exciting episode of The Batman Universe podcast! Scott Waldyn is joined by Tim Maxwell, creator of Neuverse Creative, and the two talk about all of the amazing Batman-related audio dramas Maxwell and team have been producing over at Neuverse Creative.

Learn about the love, attention to detail, and casting that goes on behind the scenes. For the past couple of years, Neuverse Creative has been adapting unproduced screenplays for Superman, Batman, and Spider-Man and transforming them into exciting audio dramas on multiple platforms. Along with unproduced screenplays, other audio dramas include original stories and “What If” dramas, where popular tales are recreated with influences from other eras of the Caped Crusader.

Find Neuverse Creative on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, Anchor, and everywhere else you can listen to podcasts. Follow Neuverse Creative on Instagram.

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Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life) and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 15, episode 7 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast, as Steph adventures in the land of the Rising Sun! Review: Batman #134! Greater Gotham covers Poison Ivy #11, Batman & The Joker: The Deadly Duo #6, The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing #7, and Batman Inc #7. Why is the Tim Drake: Robin backup in Batman better than the main story about Batman himself? What’s happening with so many Joker books? Will Ian finally read Poison Ivy? These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at podcast@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on Twitter, or on our Discord server!

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It’s all about new trailers on this episode, as Dane and Tim react to the new trailers we got for Blue Beetle, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, and Ahsoka!

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Overview: In Batman Incorporated #7, Professor Pyg is defeated by the team, but another villain lies beneath the surface.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Batman Incorporated #7 begins in Gotham, as Ghost-Maker and El Gaucho fight through Dollotrons and reach the freezer room where the villains are chained up (seen in the last issue). Ghost-Maker goes to the Riddler and asks how many lives the villains in the room have taken that were innocent—getting to the point of saying thousands. Mad Hatter yells “You can’t do this!” and is met with Ghost-Maker putting his sword to his belly but not stabbing him. He asks, if none of them walked out of there, how many lives would be saved in the future?

When El Gaucho tries to calm Ghost-Maker down he is told that he knows that he made that promise to Batman to not kill and now Batman isn’t there to stop him. El Gaucho then says that what he did was not easy, but he proved himself a good leader. El Gaucho even calls Ghost-Maker his friend. Nightwing, Batwoman, Robin, Batgirl, Signal, and Stephnie Brown all walk into the room, asking where the villains are.

Outside Ghost-Maker tells Nightwing that he could have ended the cat-and-mouse game that the Bat-Family plays, but he didn’t. That means any damage to the city in the future falls on the lap of the Bat-Family.

Meanwhile, Professor Pyg tries to kill the kids who stole “Mother,” and before he does, Red Raven kicks Pyg. Clownhunter grabs the kids and takes them outside while Jiro and Red Raven fight the Dollotrons. Then, Knight and Gray Wolf show up to help, and they run inside, fighting with Red Raven and Jiro.

Clownhunter then tells the boys to go back to Bludhaven, where people who care about them are. Clownhunter then goes inside to take down all of the Dollotrons. Professor Pyg gets the upper hand and grabs Clownhunter holding a knife to his throat. Then he orders the Dollotrons to get “Mother.” Red Raven grabs a chainsaw from the floor and threatens to cut “Mother,” and then Pyg surrenders and lets Clownhunter go.

Clownhunter, without his suit and mask, goes to the park in Bludhaven and meets Ava again, but she doesn’t recognize him. But he also sees the two boys are there and are staying out of trouble.

Later on Ghost-Makers ship, Ghost-Maker says that Clownhunter’s work helped lead the team to Professor Pyg and that it couldn’t have happened without him. When Clownhunter leaves, he closes the door, and we see news reports of crimes of the villains that the Bat-Family “put away for good.” Then Ghost-Maker takes off his mask, and we see the anger on his face as the reports are read.

Red Raven and his father talk about whether the mission was smooth. Red Raven said he won’t visit him for a while as he is traveling to Shanghai. His father says that he understands. When he hangs up, someone asks if his son (Red Raven) is coming, and before Man-of Bats responds, he gets shot up by Dusty Bronco.

Analysis: Batman Incorporated #7 this month felt shorter due to the number of pages that focused on Clownhunter. While it seems that this short two-issue arc was just a quick story moving forward a potential conflict between the Batman Inc team and the Bat-Family, there wasn’t much else that happened. It was good to see Ghost-Maker’s face and see the anger that he has for the Bat-Family, but I’m left wondering how long until the story threads get picked up.

Dusty Bronco is introduced, and I’m interested to see what they do with the character. It’s an odd way to start this conflict as the Red Raven stuff with his father has been focused on very little. But with the issue’s cliffhanger, it seems that it could be focused on more. Though the fact that Red Raven is supposed to be heading to Shangai puts a wrench into moving that story forward right away.

Finally, I am hoping to see more Ghost-Maker, and the issues he is having with the Bat-Family explored more. This was previously hinted at when he worked alongside Batman, but it seemed to be resolved with the no-killing rule. The fact that he is backsliding into believing that killing is a better option, means not only a conflict with the Bat-Family could be in the future, but whether or not some of his teammates will agree with his choices leads to more possible conflicts.

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Overview: In Tim Drake: Robin #7, what is supposed to be a fun date for Bernard Dowd and his boyfriend Tim Drake becomes both a family and a criminal affair.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Tim Drake: Robin #7 begins, Tim Drake is rushing to get ready. Bernard Dowd, his boyfriend, is waiting. The two have dinner reservations, but it’s perilous, as Firefly has been attacking restaurants. Bernard is not worried; after all, he has Tim with him. Bruce Wayne was able to get the reservations for Tim, Bernard, and Bernard’s parents on short notice. It’s revealed that Bernard’s parents could have gotten the reservations as well, but they are not as encouraging. Bernard is studying to be a chef, which is not what his parents want for him.

At the restaurant, Bernard is not happy. His parents have also arrived. Bernard’s mom is not approving of Tim, which is evident when she says that he brought his “little friend.” Tim excuses himself to the bathroom. After tense words between the two, Bernard’s mother tells her son that she wants him to come back; Bernard admits that he wants to also but is interrupted by an explosion. Firefly is attacking, and Robin quickly swings in to engage.

Bernard tries to get his parents out but is cut off by the fire. He grabs a tablecloth to cover them. Robin tries to find out who Firefly is working with. While this is going on, the Dowds start to argue. Mr. Dowd says that everything has to be about Bernard. Then he says the worst thing possible to the shock of Mrs. Dowd. Mr. Dowd lashes out that it would have been better if Bernard had never been born. Bernard exits the restaurant by himself, but he does not want to be alone.

Soon, Tim steps out and embraces his boyfriend. Bernard shares the interaction with his parents. Bernard mentions it is like his worst fears coming to life. This sparks a memory in Tim, and he races back to the restaurant, saying he forgot his sweater. Bernard follows, but his parents are still in the restaurant. Through a window, Bernard sees Robin trapped in a fire cage. But there is someone else, Phobia. She is the brains of this operation, feeding off of the chaos of the trapped patrons.

Bernard sneaks in and discovers his parents’ worst nightmare, and it is not him. They are arguing in the middle of the inferno about getting a divorce. Just then, Firefly and Phobia find Bernard and grab him in front of Robin. Robin escapes and takes out both Firefly and Phobia. After putting out the fire, Robin leaves them for the police.

Afterward, Tim and Bernard walk home. Tim asks if Bernard is safe, and Bernard tells him that he is always safe with him. The two share a touching moment, and then Bernard asks him if he got his sweater. Tim says that he forgot that he did not have one with him, and Bernard reveals to the reader that he knows that Tim Drake is Robin. He, however, will not let Tim know that he knows until Tim is ready to reveal that information. Bernard gives Tim a necklace with his initial. That way, both Robin and Tim can keep him close.

Analysis: The art of this story by Serg Acuna is fantastic. The character designs are great. Bernard is drawn as a masculine young man along with Tim Drake. There are no feminine features highlighted, and the clothing style of the two characters are also masculine. Tim could be drawn as a little too young but not overly youthful as he has been depicted in the past. I look forward to this artist staying on the book.

Story-wise, the focus is not on Tim but on Bernard. Bernard actually appears more than Tim or Robin in this story. We get insight into the Dowd family and their fears. They really are not concerned about Bernard but themselves. It is a little ironic since Mr. Dowd calls Bernard selfish when the two of them are the selfish ones, as shown in their argument in the restaurant. On a hopeful note, the story concludes with Mrs. Dowd texting Bernard asking him to come home. It’s a sweet finish to the story that tries to dig deep into the complexities of what’s deeper beneath the surface when it comes to fear.

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Overview: In Batman #134, Batman finally meets Red Mask face-to-face, and now he must stop a plot that threatens to destroy the multiverse.

Editor’s Note: Due to the anthology nature of this collection, we will feature a synopsis and analysis for each story, rather than breaking up the synopsis and analysis. Spoilers are sure to be revealed.

Story #1: “The Bat-Man of Gotham” Part 4 by writer Chip Zdarsky and artist Mike Hawthorne

Synopsis: Batman #134 begins in the cavernous abyss beneath Gotham City, as Selina Kyle leads Batman near where Red Mask runs his operation. After telling Batman that Red Mask is five miles down into the subterranean city, Batman assumes Selina isn’t coming with him. When she asks how he knows this, he reminds her that he knows her from another world and knows that she can do good for Gotham. He tells her to help people, then descends into the madness below.

The Arkham Asylum beneath Gotham is huge. Batman passes Lex Luthor in a cell, as well as The Flash, who is undergoing some sort of break from reality. Batman concludes that Red Mask must be experimenting with the multiverse. Before he can finish his thought, Red Mask greets the Caped Crusader, unmasking and revealing himself to be Darwin Halliday, this world’s Joker.

When Batman asks if this is about the multiverse, Darwin admits that it is. He tells a story of how he spent his youth building up a pharmaceutical company, always tinkering and growing and expanding. When a chemical accident infected him, he saw himself as he should be out in the multiverse. “There are threads through the multiverse that connect us all to different versions of ourselves, and I saw who I was meant to be. Elemental. Uninhibited,” Darwin says.

Darwin locks Batman behind a force field. He tells Batman that he’s been bringing as many people from the multiversal as possible to his Arkham Caves, so he can get all the multiversal energy he can. As Darwin runs off, Batman uses an explosive device to free himself, then prioritizes shutting off the Crane Brain, which has been replaced with multiversal poison.

Batman calls Jewel and Selina, telling Jewel to get as many people to Athena Tower as possible. It’ll be safe from the gas. He also tells Selina that he believes in her and that she’s the best.

Just then, Ghost-Maker arrives, and like all of the other associates of Halliday in this world, “Ghost-Breaker” is also juiced up on venom. Knowing that he can’t take Ghost-Maker in a fight, Batman leaps past his frenemy only to get stabbed in the back by a katana. Batman removes the sword and prepares to duel “Ghost-Breaker,” using his knowledge of past fights to guide him.

The two plummet further below, where “Ghost-Breaker” releases some convicts to fight Batman. One of them is a brainwashed Superman. As Superman prepares to blast Batman with heat vision, Batman uses a thunderous voice to scare Superman away.

Outside, Jewel and Selina lead people to Athena Tower. Inside the tower, Alfred calls Leslie Thompkins, who is at her clinic trying to save people infected with multiversal poison.

Beneath Gotham, Batman makes it to the poison supply only to find Ghost-Maker waiting. The two spar and Batman uses his advantage of knowing Ghost-Maker’s ego to trip the venom-powered rogue up. Batman succeeds in stopping the release of the gas, but above Gotham, Red Mask has a backup plan. He orders the release of Leatherwings, an army of gas-toting Man-Bat creatures who descend upon Gotham to finish the job.

Analysis: In Batman #134, Batman’s suspicion in the last issue is confirmed. Darwin Halliday, this Elseworlds Gotham’s Joker, is also Red Mask and the mastermind behind everything wrong in this city. Somehow, Halliday has been locking up heroes and villains who stand in his way, as well as experimenting with the multiverse on victims drawn to this world. For reasons not very well explained, Halliday is gassing Gotham with multiversal poison, and only Batman can leap into action and stop the rogue.

Batman #134 is an action-heavy issue that primarily features a battle between Batman and this world’s Ghost-Maker (who goes by “Ghost-Breaker”). The battle scenes are fun, and Mike Hawthorne’s pencils, paired with Tomeu Morey’s colors, are exciting. What works well in this issue is the combat paired with Batman’s inner monologue. Chip Zdarsky and the art team at fleshing out a fully realized Batman that balances the analytical detective and the expert martial artist well.

The overarching narrative suffers, but there are some hints that things could get exciting in the next issue or two. One idea is this concept of “threads” that Darwin Halliday yammers about. After suffering a chemical accident, Halliday sees who he is meant to be across the multiverse, and he’s been working to recreate himself in that image. The how’s and why’s of his plan involve multiversal energy in a very “comic book” explanation that also serves as a means of bringing Batman back to his own world. However, if this idea of “threads” is congruent across all characters, it brings up some interesting ideas.

For starters, does this mean that there’s never a universe where Joker can be a good person? Secondly, will these “threads” serve as a means to bring Alfred Pennyworth back, since he’s been hanging out in the background of this Elseworlds tale the entire time? Third, will the climax of this storyline somehow reshape the Batman universe and have some sort of greater effect on the Dawn of DC alignment currently happening with comic titles?

Another idea that’s been playing out in the background of this storyline has been Bruce Wayne’s relationship with this universe’s Selina Kyle. In each issue, he’s constantly reminded himself that it’s not his Selina, and in Batman #134, he tells her that he believes in her and knows she can help people. Batman is clearly trying to get Selina to be her best self, but the repetition might be teasing at a possible reunion between Batman and Catwoman once he returns to his world. The fact that he can’t get her out of his head is telling, and it would be a pity to leave this obsession on the cutting room floor for Batman comics going forward.

Going back to Alfred, readers have seen little of him in this storyline. However, what has been shown of Alfred is a man finding himself in the middle of an emotional tug-of-war. Seeing Bruce rekindled Alfred’s fatherly love for the man he raised. At the same time, Dr. Leslie Thompkins’ dedication to Alfred has been toying with his heart. He loves her, but he clearly is a man who is missing her, sidelined for the greater good. Not only could this push him away, but it goes back to this notion of threads that Halliday was highlighting. Much like his relationship with Bruce in other universes, in this one, Alfred is sidelined for the greater good. Instead of Batman running out in the middle of the night, leaving Alfred at Wayne Manor, it’s Dr. Thompkins.

All in all, Batman #134 is an interesting issue that, while it’s not the most exciting read, certainly has ideas. Hopefully, readers will get some more answers soon, and hopefully, the creative team will run with these interesting concepts and story “threads.”

Story #2: “The Toy Box” Part 4 by writer Chip Zdarsky and artist Miguel Mendonca

Synopsis: Back in the main Gotham City, Superman, dressed as Batman, keeps up appearances in Gotham. He stops Killer Moth, then heads back to the rooftops to meet with Robin (Tim Drake). When asked if he can help, Robin tells Superman that this world needs him here and that there are spare Robins, so Tim is free to descend into the multiverse.

Back at the hideout of Mr. Terrific and Toyman, Robin checks in on their progress. Toyman was able to follow a multiversal signature and locate where Batman might be, and Mr. Terrific upgraded Robin’s special suit. Robin leaps back into the bleed, traveling through the multiverse.

His mind focuses on his mother, and Robin is transported to her in another world. He spends a moment with her, telling her about his life and his mother and father in his world. The two bond, and then Robin heads back into the bleed to find Batman.

Analysis: The tender moment between Tim Drake and his mom is nice, but this backup issue feels like a filler issue. Instead of finally finding Batman, Tim is off to yet another universe. The moment of the heart is weakened by a clear decision to delay Robin’s reunion with Batman.

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 15, episode 6 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Review: Detective Comics #1070! Greater Gotham covers Nightwing #102, Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #13, Catwoman #53, DC/RWBY #2, One Bad Day – Ra’s al Ghul, DCeased: War of the Undead Gods #7, GCPD: The Blue Wall #6, Tim Drake: Robin #7, Dark Knights of Steel #10, Harley Quinn #28, Gotham City: Year One #6, Punchline: The Gotham Game #6. Who is better: Solomon Grundy, Mr. Freeze, or Batman? How many times will Ian lose his mind at how frustrated he is at Greater Gotham? These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at podcast@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on Twitter, or on our Discord server!

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Spring has sprung, and with time passing since our last review, that means Ian and Steph are back to review the latest chapters of Batman: Wayne Family Adventures! Let’s find out all about the latest batch with our review of Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #76-78.

Steph: Hi Ian! Man, it feels like it’s been forever since we’ve talked about Batman: Wayne Family Adventures, and now we have #76-78 released!

Ian: The time does sometimes drag! We should invest in some Speed Force!

Steph: Well, let’s get right into it. We left off on an emotional cliffhanger of sorts, exploring Duke’s insecurities as the only Bat-Family member with powers. What did you think of Ep. 76 – Worth (Part 2)? It kind of established his status quo in this universe. I found it helpful if nothing else.

Ian: I thought it was a very nice, sincere conversation that highlighted some really nice aspects of Duke and Luke’s characters – but I felt it fell a bit flat, as we didn’t see any really plot-related overcoming aspects as we have in similar stories in WFA. I don’t think it’s bad, but it does feel like one of the weaker two-part character studies.

Steph: From an art standpoint, I was a little disappointed that we got our beloved Starbite but only drew two characters, mostly sitting, though there were flashbacks to action sequences. I agree this one was a little weaker, but honestly, I felt it was still relatable to people. Our worth doesn’t come from what others think of us, even Batman.

Ian: Definitely true! I think the message is fine, but it doesn’t quite connect as strongly to Duke specifically, instead of any other Bat-Family member. I did very much appreciate the bits of Duke’s comic history that were put in there, and the pictures of him looking over the city were magnificent (shoutout to Suzi Blake for backgrounds, for sure!)

Steph: Now for something fun, Ep. 77 – Suit Up! I knew the moment Jason piped up what Bat-suit Bruce would end up with.

Ian: Really? I was expecting Zur-en-Arr or something really bizarre, but Rainbow Batman is pretty incredible.

Steph: I think one of the first books I read, when I started comics was Trinity Vol 1 Better Together, where they show Rainbow Batman, so I immediately had to find out more, so it has a cherished place in my heart. We did get to see Zur-en-Arr. Did you recognize any of the other options? I want to know more about the green, yellow, striped, and pink ones.

Ian: I saw a big Kelly Jones Ears Batman suit! But honestly, I didn’t recognize most of them! Did you? Azrael, I think was there.

Steph: I didn’t recognize many of them. I mean, I’ve probably seen some of them in passing, like thumbnails for videos or articles about “Crazy stuff Batman has done in the past 80 years” or whatever.

Ian: I am so curious if the writing and art team pulled up those lists and decided which ones to feature using that! Sounds like a whole lot of fun!

Steph: It does.

Ian: What did you think of the choice of Dick, Jason, and Kate as the conspirators?

Steph: Jason made sense, Dick made sense if he knew Bruce was okay and doing this wouldn’t harm him, and Kate is just a surprise…but as the “good girl,” I know it can be fun to take people by surprise by doing something unexpected every once in a while. What did you think? I feel like Steph might have been a better choice than Dick.

Ian: My bigger surprise was Kate because she hasn’t really had that many connections in WFA (or even in the comics). She’s always kind of a standoffish character, both structurally and personality-wise (not a negative at all – I’m a bit Kate Kane fan!) I think it’s really fun seeing her tease her cousin, and it definitely fits with what we see in James Tynion’s Detective Comics run!

Steph: This one was fun. Do you know the story of the rainbow suit? Oh, I forgot that he wore brightly colored suits for a while, in addition to the rainbow one.

Ian: I feel like I knew the story at one point but don’t remember it anymore. I think Grant Morrison talked about it as part of the Black Casebook that Batman RIP drew upon. Kate and Jason both had the Pink and Green versions of those batsuits that inspired Dick to seek out the rainbow one! What’d you think of Jim taking a “bad outfit” work shot? I thought it was pretty funny, especially after all the Robins put the Commissioner through!

Steph: For sure. Not every day Gordon gets a chance like that. But, anyway, Batman was protecting Robin’s identity because he had hurt his arm, so Dick and Robin were wearing casts, and so to distract people from noticing that Robin was hurt, he wore crazy colors. Course…Robin probably should have stayed home, but whatevs.

Ian: Gotta love the logic of the Ancient Comics! We must be WACKY!

Steph: Now, I am criminally behind on Red Hood and the Outlaws Webtoon, but I loved this cross-over: Ep. 78 – Outlaws. Very much more light-hearted than the actual serious.

Ian: That is true! I also loved the crossover and seeing the normally much grittier Outlaws in Starbites polished style! Though I do remember back in the early episodes of Outlaws, there were lighthearted references to the rest of the Bat-Family! There has been a bit of fan grumbling about it because they don’t think the tones of the two comics mesh – what are your thoughts on that?

Steph: I think there needs to be something for everyone. I love that if WFA isn’t your jam, Outlaws is there for you. If you’re sick of the Bat-Family, there’s Vixen and Zatanna (Zatanna x John 4 Evah, btw). I’m glad they’re different.

Ian: I am glad they’re different, too – I also don’t mind the crossover, but some fans feel they should be separate universes
I say, “it’s comics.” But do you think it might be confusing to a fan who isn’t used to these kinds of crossovers?

Steph:…but then how will Alfred serve tea and cookies to Biz and Artemis?

Ian: That’s what I say! How can you not cherish these moments?

Steph: It’s not like it was necessary for fans to read this episode to understand anything. From what I could tell, it was a throwaway episode in the Outlaws universe and a delightful nugget of driving Jason nuts in the WFA universe. It’s fine. People need to chill.

Ian: Chill is sadly rarer than the rarest comics variant in comics fandom! Ah well. I loved this crossover – the personalities and character designs were so appealing and fun.

Steph: Man…I think this is our first review not ending on a cliffhanger in a while! What do you want to see if future episodes?

Ian: I think I’d like to see some more unconventional groupings, like adding Batwoman to things. Maybe throwing Harper into a couple more episodes, and course, more Catwoman. But always STEPH!

Steph: I think I’d like to see a girl or guys night out. Or maybe both! Like they keep running into each other and stealing people from each other’s groups. That would be cute.

Ian: Those are great ideas!

Steph: Well, I’ll talk to you next time!

Ian:

Editor’s Note: You can find Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #76-78 and all other past chapters exclusively on the Webtoon platform. You can find all other reviews from the series here at The Batman Universe.

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In this latest episode, Dane and Tim are back to talk about a lot of great stuff that has happened over the last few weeks, including reviews of Shazam!: Fury of the Gods, the final three episodes of The Last of Us season 1, The Mandalorian season 3, and the exciting news of the TMNT The Last Ronin comic getting a AAA video game adaption!

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Overview: Tom King’s pastiche of neo-noir comes to its conclusion in Gotham City: Year One #6, as Gotham City’s mask falls off, leaving only the rot that will eventually create Batman.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Gotham City: Year One #6 begins, Slam remembers why he became a cop, mostly just to have a job, as we see Gotham burning in the aftermath of baby Helen Wayne’s murder. He muses that he has been passing as white his entire life and discovers, as a young cop, his brother was killed under the pretext that “NWC” – a crude epithet meaning a black man “went crazy,” justifying police murder.

Slam arrives at Wayne Manor and beats down every Wayne employee in his path until he reaches Richard and Constance in the library. Richard tries to shoot him in a panic, and he and Slam fight. Constance tells a story as they fight about a cave in the Wayne grounds where Richard kept the trophies of his adultery. Constance reveals she knew Richard was behind the kidnapping and shoots him in the head. She tells Slam that she found Helen dead, drowned in her own vomit because the people Richard hired abandoned her. Her plan was to kill her husband and cause riots in revenge for the death of her daughter, then become a “hero” by using her influence to stop the violence over the radio and television. Constance says she’ll let Queenie go if Slam helps her. He agrees, only because he can’t kill her and save what remains of the city.

Slam helps Queenie leave Gotham, and the years pass. Wayne Enterprises grows rich on a chemical factory, but it pollutes the city, and Constance sells it to Ace. A few years later, Constance tries to get Slam to help her son Thomas “toughen up,” not be weak – but Slam refuses.

In the present, Slam finishes his story with Batman. Batman can’t understand the meaning, but Slam says it’s all just dead babies and brothers murdered by cops, murdering widows and men wearing bat ears.

Analysis: Tom King has said many times that Gotham City: Year One is based on classic noirs like Chinatown and the real crime of the Lindberg baby murder. I’ve said from the very first issue that, unlike a lot of King’s work, this feels remarkably lifeless as if King were simply painting a gloss of Batman history names over the absolute bog standard noir story, and sadly, the ending simply confirms this suspicion.

The final lines, “I know, I know, NWC. Well, @$%#, when you look at it all…what else are you going to do?” may be different from Robert Towne’s “Forget it, Jake. It’s Chinatown,” but the fundamental nihilism and even the cadence of King’s line clearly derives from Towne’s. And perhaps that’s the problem. Towne’s screenplay is taught as one of the most perfectly constructed screenplays of all filmmaking, and perhaps King thought that in imitation, he could capture some of the same prestige. But for all its craft, I find the tawdry cynicism, cheap nihilism, and reveling in the baseness of human nature profoundly tedious.

Similarly, what King tries to do with Gotham and Batman’s histories, tying everything exciting, fun, and noble, from the Batcave to Batman’s attempts to save little babies like his great-aunt Helen, to Wayne Enterprises, to everything nasty, bigoted, perverse, and treacherous – rings ultimately just as hollow to me as attempting to tie Batman’s crusade to save as many people as he can to Joker’s sadistic quest to cause the world the same pain he feels in The Killing Joke does.

For all his mastery, I don’t think Phil Hester’s artwork will be quite able to raise King’s script in the same way that Brian Bolland’s art raised Moore’s to an all-time bestseller for DC. I think this miniseries will be one of the lesser Year Ones, like Frank Miller’s Superman: Year One or Ivory Madison’s Huntress: Year One. The best Year One branded stories have always tended to distill the qualities of their central character into a moving, emotional story. Gotham City: Year One, on the other hand, attempts to find the central character of Gotham City, fails, and declares the attempt meaningless. Without the connection to the characters like Slam, Constance, Queenie, Richard, or any of the others King and Hester attempt to imbue with style and personality, the whole attempt is a brilliantly created but hollow monument to artistic influences gone past, with a veneer of modern racial politics to attempt to provide relevance.

Phil Hester’s final cover of Gotham City: Year One #6 ties together Slam in the past, Slam in the present, smoking in his hospital bed as Batman broods in the doorway, and a blood-red Batman tied up with a rope of pearls and revolver – all classic noir and Batman iconography. Nothing too standout, but it is executed very well, as expected from Hester. Jorge Molina goes full noir movie poster with his variant, showing a much less bulky looking Slam, glasses pure white with reflections similar to what we expect from Jim Gordon, with Constance and Richard Wayne behind him, the shadow of the Batman behind all three – very polished and moody, though Slam’s depiction feels really off from the rest of the book. Finally, Jason Masters provides the 1 in 25 incentive variant with a bandaged but still much slimmer Slam peering out of Venetian blinds as a bat flies past him, perhaps referencing the classic “Yes, father” scene – quite nice, but again, leaving Hester’s main cover is the clearest choice for aesthetic appeal.

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In this episode of The Batman Universe Podcast, Eisner-nominated author Ram V joins Scott Waldyn for a special discussion about his “Gotham Nocturne” storyline from the pages of Detective Comics.

Listen in as the two discuss the newest villains to terrorize Gotham City, the Orghams, as well as the nature of duality that is interwoven throughout the storyline thus far. Scott and Ram V also discuss metaphors in stories and the value of theming and exploring interesting concepts and ideas over the plot.

Near the end of the episode, the two briefly hit on Ram V’s incredible Swamp Thing run, as well as his upcoming DC title, The Vigil.

After the episode, check to find more about the incredible work from Ram V beyond “Gotham Nocturne,” including titles such as These Savage Shores, Blue in Green, The Many Deaths of Laila Starr, Justice League Dark, Catwoman, Venom, and more at his site.

Have an idea for an upcoming podcast episode, or would you like to set up an interview? Send us an email with your ideas at tbu@thebatmanuniverse.net.

Subscribe to The Batman Universe Podcast* Apple Podcasts * Google Podcasts * Spotify * Stitcher * YouTube * RSS * TuneIn * Bullhorn * CastBox * Podbean * Podchaser The post Ram V on Gotham Nocturne appeared first on The Batman Universe.

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Overview: As Oracle meets the Vigil, Batman and Batgirl start their more strategic campaign against the Orgham invasion of Gotham in Detective Comics #1070.

Story #1: “Gotham Nocturne Act 1” Part 5 by writer Ram V and artist Stefano Raffaele

Synopsis: As Detective Comics #1070 begins, the Orgham troops unload fully automatic rifle fire on Solomon Grundy as he attacks them in the sewers. They attach an azmer demon to him, but he literally punches it out of himself, and in desperation, the troops hurl grenades. As the smoke clears, Cheshire Cat (Lian Harper) teams up with Grundy to get out of the sewers, away from the Orgham azmer army program.

Bruce walks through the Wayne cemetery, pondering his next moves against the mysterious threats he faces, remembering his lost future with Selina (in Batman #50), and wondering if he’s made a mistake. Prince Arzen of the Orghams approaches him and says that the Orghams are looking at the Wayne land (since the Wayne family is no longer as financially dominant because of Joker War). Bruce says the land will never be for sale, and Arzen speaks of the death of his father, who went on a quest to save a city but failed and died, and speaks of history repeating itself. As Arzen leaves, Bruce calls Oracle (Barbara Gordon) and works with her and Batgirl (Cassandra Cain) to start developing a planned campaign against the threat to Gotham, which he suspects has to do with the Orghams.

In the Water District, Batman fights his way to Talia al Ghul’s door, and his former lover tells him more of Prince Arzen’s family – and how her father, Ra’s al Ghul, killed Arzen’s father.

Meanwhile, in the Clock Tower, Barbara is approached by a mysterious vigilante calling himself Arclight, part of a four-person team (including Castle, Oracle’s counterpart, Dodge, and one more) called the Vigil, who are in Gotham watching the Orgham and the Bat-Family.

Analysis: Act 1 of Ram V’s opera completes part five with Detective Comics #1070, and a lot of information is dropped – perhaps information that should have been dropped a lot earlier. One can see the purpose of Ram V’s structure – to focus on Bruce Wayne/Batman’s experience of the invasion of his city, slowly learning more about it – but as I’ve mentioned in my discussions with Steph and Theo on the TBU Comic Podcast recently, I don’t feel the benefits of that structure are worth the tradeoffs of confusion and the sense that Batman is flailing and failing constantly. Though there have certainly been many times when Batman has felt similarly outmatched – the early 2000s, after No Man’s Land comes to mind, when Batman spends years being outmaneuvered by villain after villain in Bruce Wayne: Murderer/Fugitive, Hush, and War Games – outside of Hush (primarily for Jim Lee’s art and the chance to see many classic villains instead of the original characters and gangsters the early 2000s tended to focus on outside of that year), that period is not well remembered for a reason. I think that a Lord of the Rings movies style prologue, or even something similar to what happens here, with Talia giving Bruce additional lore (but not nearly enough, though the next issue may give us more), would have been a much stronger opening than the seemingly random fights and Barbatos visions we’ve had up till now.

The revelation that Ra’s al Ghul murdered Prince Arzen’s father (though the family relationships of the Orghams, stretched over the same millennia that the al Ghul family’s relationships are stretched over, are still quite murky and confusing), gives some hints as to the direction this story will go. I can easily see the Orgham prince becoming consumed by vengeance in trying to destroy Talia, and Batman, driven both by justice and love, rescuing her and defeating the Orgham threat. Perhaps a bit predictable, and Ram V is a better craftsman to take quite such an easy path (at least, in my experience so far, though the Annual had a few frustratingly predictable pieces to its recreation of Gotham in the 1770s), but I can’t help but think that this family drama intertwined will prove crucial to the upcoming rising and falling battles.

Ram V works very well with artist Stefano Raffaele and colorist Adriano Lucas – one of the three artists who worked on the last issue. Raffaele has quite the task in front of him – the powerful Gruny battle opening the issue, the lyrical, lovely graveyard memories that trace Bruce’s personal journey from Tom King’s run to today, and the more exotic flashbacks to the Orgham tales of Arzen and Talia. Though much more clearly distinct from Ivan Reis and Rafael Albuquerque’s powerful pencils that set up this run, Raffaele’s style still fits quite well within the romanticized version of DC’s house style that Ram V has worked with his masterful artists to create. It does continue to be a bit unsettling that DC isn’t trying harder to secure a consistent art team for their highest-numbered book, though. The art is consistently really top-notch, but why can’t it be by the same artist?

Story #2: “Absolute” Part 2 by writer Simon Spurrier and artist Caspar Wijngaard

Synopsis: As Mr. Freeze cryo-freezes Dr. Mead (Two-Face’s therapist), and she hears the terrifying spiritual entity Earworm, his experiment fails, and he throws a tantrum. Believing Dr. Mead is dead, Freeze leaves as Earworm tells her that something is coming that she should fear. It’s the boy discovered by Gordon, calling himself Sorrow, who says he’s here to save her as she thaws.

Analysis: Si Spurrier and Caspar Wijngaard’s icy tale of Two-Face’s shrink continues in the middle part of three in Detective Comics #170. Oddly, after the cliffhanger reveals Earworm’s terrifying form to the literally freezing Dr. Mead, the new monster takes a back seat to Mr. Freeze and the boy Sorrow. The emotional pieces of the narrative are nicely handled by Spurrier and Wijngaard together, with a clean, appealing, dreaming style that is reminiscent of Marguerite Sauvage’s work, though a bit darker than Sauvage usually goes. This very much feels like a transitional piece of the story, with no major events happening, and it feels odd that a three-part story would need so much transition from part one to part three. The title of this backup story, “Absolute,” has a resonance with Mr. Freeze talking about Absolute Zero, which is ridiculous, as there’s no way that can be truly achieved in any real sense outside of laser-frozen atoms, certainly not in any kind of experiment in a sewer laboratory, but hey, this is comic book science – but does it have to be so blatantly silly?

Evan Cagle continues to provide the main cover to Detective Comics #1070, this time featuring Oracle inside Batman, a very nice reference to Batman finally forming a plan with his family to fight his foes, though it would be nice if Oracle’s part in the story were less of a prop to advertise a different comic book. Ivan Reis’s cardstock variant of Batman and Talia in a skull-decorated crypt with Grundy behind them plays well with the ideas in that part of the comic where Talia reveals the truth of the dead to Batman, as does Kelley Jones’s variant, featuring Batman walking on a skeleton and not so skeleton bodies with a lantern – also available as a 1 in 50 foil incentive variant. Seb McKinnon’s 1 in 25 incentive variant deploys a painted style with a huge Bat, Batman emerging from its demonic mouth over a ghostly ballet/wedding tableau. Lastly, Travis Moore pops in with a Shazam 2 movie promotion variant – quite nice, but as with most movie promotion variants, absolutely nothing to do with the comic itself (though it’s quite a good movie and recommended!)

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Gotham Knights, the TV show? What the heck is that?! Nightwing “quickies” from 2004 and Birds of Prey #68 (2004) are the main events. After the break, I look at more Nightwing “quickies” (modern) and Batgirls #16! “Shag’s Mac and Cheese of Comfort and Joy,” listener emails, and literature recommendations also appear. Also, PERIODS!

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Overview: In Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham, Bruce Wayne battles Lovecraft-inspired monsters in a 1920s setting.

Editor’s Note: In anticipation of the release of the animated film of the same name, this review covers the inspiration for the film. This collected edition includes all three issues of the miniseries Batman: The Doom That Came To Gotham, which had its first issue released in November 2000 and the final issue released in January 2001. This review focuses on the story as a whole rather than the individual issues that made up the limited series.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham is an Elseworlds story that takes us to a Lovecraftian 1920s-style universe. Our story begins in 1928 Antarctica, with Bruce Wayne twenty years into his expedition. He and his crew have just located the lost ship of Oswald Cobblepot, leader of another expedition crew doing research in the artic. The ship, including everyone on board, is completely frozen. Bruce heads out on his own. He sees someone in the distance, and thinking it’s Cobblepot, Bruce races to catch the man. Following him inside a cave, he discovers something gigantic behind a wall of ice. The man, not Cobblepot, looking as though he is frozen to the core, is attempting to break the ice around this mysterious thing. After a struggle, Bruce knocks out and pulls Mr. Grendon out of the cave. Bruce calls to his ship for some explosives; assuming Cobblepot was lost to the monster in the cave, they blow it up.

Cobblepot, naked with the penguins, watches as the cave blows.

Mr. Grendon truly is frozen. Dick and Jason attempt to thaw him out but quickly realize he has become rotten. He remains in the ship’s freezer while the boys build him a refrigerator suit, but he is not making the voyage alone.

Once they reach the harbor, Alfred immediately reminds Bruce of the reason he really left Gotham: the death of his parents. We jump to the past, where we see the death of the Waynes by knife. Young Bruce follows a phantom voice, one mirroring the same voice Mr. Grendon is hearing. The voice takes Bruce to an abandoned clock tower filled with bats. As Bruce releases them, the voice tells him to prepare for what is coming.

Jason mans the ship in the harbor, continuing his work on Mr. Grendon. Tim and Dick accompany Bruce back to Wayne Manor, where they are greeted by a chemical-filled body tied to a chair. Bruce also notices something reptilian about it as he whispers his name, Langstrom. Adding to the weirdness, a man calling himself Blood shows himself to explain to Bruce the only four things he is allowed to know. 1. Your homecoming has set something in motion. 2. To prevail in this, Bruce Wayne must die. 3. Beware, dust comes alive again. 4. To save Gotham City, you must tear out its heart. Blood then turns into Etrigan and jumps out of the window.

Tim and Bruce visit an old friend and big game hunter Oliver Queen to get the lay of the city. It’s revealed that Langstrom is the leading scientist in bat studies, and their other old friend, Harvey Dent, is running for mayor. This turns out to just be the beginning of the detective process. Bruce receives the location of Langstrom’s lab, and Batman is away.

Langstrom’s last written statement reveals that bats speak to him and tell him of horror coming for Gotham, and a book called the Testament of al Ghul is what opens the door for the horror to walk through to our world. The book is hidden in the library of Professor Crosby Manfurd. There is also a woman searching for the book as well. Batman knows he must get there first.

Batman calls Dick to check on Jason in the harbor as Manfurd is attacked. Talia al Guhl has won the race to the book and releases her own demon, Daitya, to cover her escape. Jason Blood only has one opportunity to intervene and help Batman and chooses this one. He turns into Etrigran, allowing Batman to pursue Talia and the book. Batman corners her and a lizard person henchman at gunpoint. He fires, but the monster is unphased and too fast. The first issue ends with Talia sparing Batman’s life despite the lizard man’s wishes. We cut to the ship in the harbor. Grendon whispers, “The thing is coming.”

Part two of Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham begins back in the harbor. Whatever was causing Grendon to freeze has spread to the entire ship. Dick and Tim have arrived to check on Jason. Dick enters the ship alone and finds Jason frozen to death, but it’s also a trap. Grendon, now in full Mr. Freeze mode, and the lizard man are waiting for Dick.

Batman is chained deep below the city as he wakes to Talia in the starting stages of a ritual with the book. She is to bring her father, Ra’s al Ghul, back from the dead. He has whispered to her from beyond the grave to set everything that is coming to Gotham in motion. She starts by calling Daitya. He has defeated Etrigan and trapped him in a bottle. She then moves on to bring her father back. As he rises, Batman uses this opportunity to escape his chains, but he is too late. The Demon’s Head has risen and immediately sets a plague of reptiles on the city.

His next move involves Grendon. Ra’s gives a backstory on the Doom that is coming, known as the Lurker, and then uses Grendon as the key to release it. He sets the monster’s first target as the new mayor, Harvey Dent.

Batman, finally free of the attacking reptiles, is back top side as we cut to him as a child in the tower again. He follows a voice up the steps until he reaches its origin. He stands underneath a body hanging by its neck from the rafters. “Bruce, the thing is coming.” He is then picked up by a swarm of bats and flown through the air. They show the boy what is coming and make sure he knows that he is the only one who can stop it. It then cuts back to Batman standing in front of the same abandoned tower, “The end is near,” graffitied in huge letters.

The morning comes, and Tim finds Oliver Queen praying in a special room in the penthouse apartment. Dressed as a knight templar, Oliver tells Tim he is meant to kill this monster that is coming. He reveals ancient arrows with holy blood meant to kill the supernatural. As he speaks, vines start to creep in the window. Before Oliver can do anything, “you are not the one,” says a mysterious voice, and Oliver is gone. Batman bursts through the door just as Tim is about to be swallowed. Using a log from the fire, Batman jabs it into the monster, burning it and saving Tim just in time.

Batman confides in Tim. He tells him that he has known about this since childhood. Putting out his hand, he shows Tim that he is slowly turning into something better suited for battle. Tim recounts what Oliver had told him before the attack, giving the arrows to Batman.

This second chapter ends with the new mayor, Harvey Dent, at the doctor’s office dealing with a rash that has consumed one side of his body, a gift from Talia. Ra’s is in the depths of the sewers preparing for the final assault on Gotham.

The final part of Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham opens in Mayor Dent’s apartment. The rash has fully spread and completely covers one-half of his body. Talia is there as well, assuring him that all his suffering will be worth it in the end. “Inside of you is the future history of man,” she tells him.

Bruce, Tim, and Alfred are attending the funerals of Jason and Dick. Bruce is deep in disguise as he is still turning into some sort of monster himself. They are flagged down by police chief Gordon who takes them to his daughter, Barbara. After an “injury,” she now sits in a wheelchair with the ability to speak to the dead. They have a message for Bruce. She tells him he has two beings standing with him; the man wrapped in bats thanks him for taking on this burden, and the fire man sets another meeting for later this evening.

Bruce meets Barbara at the Gotham courthouse later that night. In a rage of fire, Crosby Manfurd flies out of Barbara and starts reciting the origin story of the monster to Bruce. We learn that to make sure their settlement in the new world was a sure success, a Wayne, a Queen, and a Langstrom, along with Manfurd, enlisted the devil to help them. That devil was Ludwig Prinn. Prinn led the men to the city below Gotham, created by the Reptile men that once “dominated” the earth. The five used the book of Guhl to perform ceremonies, and in the end, out of shame, the four men beat Prinn to death and buried the city, leaving Gotham to prosper on lies. Prinn, over time slowly turned into a Reptile man himself. He is the one who killed Jason on the boat and left Langstrom in Wayne manor. Slowly over time, the rest of the men started to hear the whispers of the Lurker, the monster from Antarctica, and it drove them mad.

Manfurd leaves Batman with clues to where Ra’s is planning his final ceremony to release the Lurker. Armed with the arrows from Oliver Queen, he heads to the city of the Reptile men below Gotham.

His first encounter is with Prinn, who he takes care of easily. Further into the depths, he finds Harvey Dent. The left side of his body is no longer his. It has grown into its own realm, a place where Ra’s can finally pull the Lurker, who we now find out is the god IOG-SOTHA, through to Gotham. Bruce unleashes his final arrow in the direction of Ra’s. He uses the book to block it, and it erupts in fire. The damage has already been done.

The next page cuts to Batman, who is no longer a man. He has fully transformed into the Man-Bat. The creature that will save Gotham. He battles a Ra’s now with the power of IOG-SOTHA running through him, causing him to transform into a monster as well. As they battle, the Lurker himself starts through the portal. It takes Talia as she watches the Man-Bat drive the arrow through the book into her father.

Etrigan emerges from his own capture. He congratulates Bruce. This is the moment that Etrigan had hoped would come. Bruce’s ability to take down Ra’s has put the IOG-SOTHA in a vulnerable state. One that Etrigan is prepared for. He uses his power, and an explosion erupts inside Harvey Dent. Like kindling, the Lurker sparks the city above, and Gotham begins to burn to the ground.

We cut to six months later. Tim Drake is leading a press conference as head of the Wayne Foundation. The city and the foundation have reached an agreement for the foundation to fund the new program to rebuild Gotham after the fire. The last panel of our story is of the Man-Bat Bruce Wayne looking over the event, “God help you if you ever again have need of me.”

Analysis: Let us just get this out of the way: we are told from the cover of Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham that this is a Batman that uses a gun. The story takes place in the late 1920s with a very Lovecraftian look. Do I think the gun is totally out of place? No, I do not. Do I think the story needed the gun? Not at all. As amazing as the cover art is by Mignola with Mr. Freeze and Gotham in the background, the gun being the foremost image makes it seem like they got the go-ahead from DC to use a gun and wanted to let everyone know. It is a little forced, and the story never calls for a Batman with a gun.

Completely moving on from the gun, the story itself is very good. Mike Mignola and Richard Pace did a fantastic job of giving us a very Lovecraftian-inspired story with monsters, wizards, magic, coming back from the dead, and old family secrets screwing over their ancestors. Each respective chapter was put together almost perfectly. They all started and ended with a great mystery surrounding them. I was lucky to be able to read all three at once; it would have been agonizing to have to wait three months for the full story to be released. The way the authors chose to use the flashbacks worked amazingly here. Sometimes stories like this can get off track because being in so many different time periods and then going in many different directions can create unnecessary confusion. This was not that at all. It is very easy to tell a lot of care was taken when it came to the composition of the story to avoid this pitfall. It has a smooth and constant flow through all three chapters. This is one of the better origin stories of a young Bruce meeting a bat god of some type. The panels where he is being carried away by a group of bats are gorgeous. The fact that it all ends with him turning into the Man-Bat tops it all off. One of my favorite choices that Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham makes.

I thought the characters they used and how they chose to use them were incredibly smart as well. Having Dick, Jason, and Tim all be crew members Bruce trusts as family was great, and I absolutely loved the use of Oswald Cobblepot in the first chapter. If I had to make any character complaints, I would have liked to see more development from Harvey Dent. Same with Oliver Queen. They both pop up quickly and die quickly. I will also take Jason Blood/Etrigan in all my stories. He popped up when he was needed, but it was never forced. The story always called for him. Batman never wins without him. I think they could have held back on the Lurker more. With it being a Lovecraft-type story, they never needed to give it a name. Just the monster these greedy men brought upon their city. I also need to give a shoutout to the choice of Lizard people and the Lizard city underneath Gotham. It all worked.

I believe the art alone in Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham makes this a must-read. The three covers done by Mike Mignola may be some of my favorite original comic book art out there. The aesthetic with the black and brown is exactly what I see when I read Lovecraft. I think they nailed exactly what they were trying to do. Gotham is grandiose and elegant, and that continues into Wayne Manor and the apartment of Oliver Queen. The character choices were very smart as well as they fit perfectly into the style. Talia, when she is in her mask, and Etrigan really stand out when they are on the page. As they adapt this into an animated movie, I really hope they stay true to what Mignola did here.

For anyone that enjoys Batman stories, I think Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham is a must-read. It may be an Elseworlds, but it is done exactly how it should. The main idea of what and who Batman is remains, but the aesthetic and story choices change. The art and story are both done at a very high level – if this was released in a more recent time, I very much think it would have gotten the White Knight treatment. I would love to see more of this world.

Editor’s Note: You can find this collected edition and help support TBU in the process by purchasing this edition digitally either for Comixology through* Amazon or as a physical copy in a paperback form at Amazon or from Things from Another World.***

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Overview: In Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #13, Batman, Superman, and Robin must solve the mystery of who killed Simon Stagg before it’s too late!

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #13 begins atop the Daily Planet building in Metropolis, as Superman and Robin are chided by Supergirl and Batgirl for being fooled by Bat-Mite and Mr. Mxyzptlk, who pretended to be the two superheroines. The only way the heroes managed to discover this ruse was through Jimmy Olsen, who took photos that showed the reality behind the magical illusions.

After the heroes leave, Jimmy walks down the steps back into the Daily Planet offices, relishing in uncovering the plot to dupe Batgirl. Clark Kent grabs Jimmy right away, telling him that Perry White has been calling for the two of them. Apparently, there’s been a murder at the Hotel Metro, and the victim is Simon Stagg.

In the Batmobile, on the way home, Batman gets word from Alfred of Simon Stagg’s demise at the hands of poison. Bruce Wayne was set to meet the industrialist the following day. Batman turns the Batmobile around, driving himself and Robin back toward Metropolis.

As Clark and Jimmy head out to learn more about Stagg’s death, Clark catches Jimmy, and comic readers, up to speed on the origin of Metamorpho. Adventurer Rex Mason, Stagg’s associate, was in love with Sapphire, Simon Stagg’s daughter. Stagg didn’t like this, so he sent Mason on an expedition to uncover an orb from the pyramid of Pharoah Ahk-Ton. Java, Stagg’s other associate, accompanied him. When the opportunity struck, Java betrayed Mason and threw the adventurer deeper into the pyramid, near a radioactive meteorite that the orb had been fashioned from. The radiation turned Mason into a monster.

Finding his way back home, Sapphire taught Mason how to speak again and gave him a reason to live. Eventually, Mason learned that his body was composed of ten substances that he could morph and combine at will. Thus, Mason became Metamorpho, the Element Man, serving as a bodyguard to the man who betrayed him out of love for Sapphire.

At Stagg’s hotel room, Clark and Jimmy are stopped by the police. Clark spots Batman and Robin entering from above and uses the promise of a shared writing byline to get Jimmy to look for suspects elsewhere. Clark runs off, changing into Superman.

Inside the hotel room, Batman tells Superman that Stagg was locked inside and there was no delivery system for the poison. Metamorpho was presumably the last person with Stagg, which means he’s a priority suspect. Superman uses his x-ray vision to scan Metropolis, finding Metamorpho in the Egyptian wing of the history museum.

Meanwhile, Metamorpho busts criminals trying to steal Egyptian artifacts. Batman joins the fight while Superman cleans up the mess. Batman tells Metamorpho that they need to talk.

At Stagg Mansion, Jimmy Olsen gets access to Simon’s calendars and files from Sapphire. She agreed to cooperate with Jimmy because of his connection to Superman. When Java finds Sapphire opening up, he tosses Jimmy out of the mansion, despite Sapphire’s protests.

Batman asks Metamorpho to account for his whereabouts during Stagg’s murder, and he can only admit that he was taking in the sights of Metropolis. Later, Batman updates Superman, filling in information from Robin, who found out that Stagg died of VX nerve gas, which Metamorpho can easily create. Before Batman leaves, he tells Superman that Stagg is evil and manipulative, so there’s no telling where this could go. Stagg costs Wayne Enterprises millions in stifling Bruce’s efforts to help Gotham, mainly because Bruce once beat Stagg in a tennis match.

Back at the Daily Planet, Jimmy has gone through Stagg’s files. He has an airtight case about who killed Stagg, and it’s so well put together that the police are already moving in on the suspect. Clark, however, is in disbelief, but Jimmy presses that facts matter over feelings. When Clark can’t explain why the guilty party is, in fact, innocent, Perry White tells the two of them to put the story to press.

The next day, The Daily Planet runs a headline that reads, “Bruce Wayne Arrested for Stagg Murder.”

Analysis: Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #13 launches into a new murder mystery that sees Bruce Wayne framed for murder. While this isn’t necessarily new (see the series Bruce Wayne – Murderer), it does come at the story in a slightly different way. Throughout this whole investigation, writer Mark Waid and artist Dan Mora have shown the differences between Superman and Batman’s approach to crime-fighting. Whereas Batman suspects everyone, Superman, ever the boy scout, gives the benefit of the doubt, choosing to believe in one’s innocence until proven otherwise. This is very upfront and prevalent in how each approaches Metamorpho, with Batman asking the potential assassin his whereabouts and Superman citing Metamorpho’s assistance in the past.

Oddly enough, Jimmy Olsen, the character who started as a bit of comic relief at the beginning of this new storyline, proves to be the most effective investigator, finding his way all the way to Stagg’s mansion and acquiring much-needed data that fingers Bruce Wayne as the murderer. Of course, this is all part of a greater ruse, but this surprise revelation sets the stage for Jimmy to say to Clark Kent about Bruce what Batman said to Superman about Metamorpho. It’s an interesting layer that’s easy to miss.

What’s also easy to miss is that Stagg’s murder arrives on the eve before his meeting with Bruce Wayne, as well as Batman’s comment about how Stagg has wanted revenge on Wayne due to a lost tennis match. These two throwaway lines will prove crucial in the coming issues.

As always, Dan Mora’s art paired with Tamra Bonvillain’s colors is a match made in heaven. This issue is beautiful, fun, and a wonderful celebration of the Silver Age of comics. The reintroduction of Metamorpho is a welcome one, and it fits perfectly into the bright tone and sense of adventure that Mora, Waid, and the team have consistently delivered throughout this run.

One thing that’s worth pointing out is how dense the story is in this issue. There are a few action scenes, as well as a slow-burn plot, that keeps adding new layers and information to the mystery at hand. This goes without saying; Mora had his work cut out for him in paneling this issue, making sure to appropriately hit all the beats with the right mood and emphasis. This also means that some action pieces, like the battle in the Egyptian wing of the Metropolis Natural History Museum, are condensed to just a couple of pages with careful paneling to draw readers into the action without using up too much precious space. The result is a work of art, particularly on page 22, wherein Batman is leaping into action against a would-be thief, and Superman is flying around, saving priceless museum pieces.

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Overview: While Eiko and Dario fight mob battles on the outside in Catwoman #53, Selina plots and trains her girls on the inside.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Catwoman #53 begins at O’Mara’s bar, as Eiko Hasigawa attacks mob boss Finbar Sullivan for orchestrating and betting on fatal gladiator fights, but Onyx takes over, so Eiko heads off with Dario “Tomcat,” a terrible but improving new driver.

Selina wakes up in solitary again, sees men with power tools closing up her cat-holes, and attacks – but the guards overpower her and warn her she doesn’t have that communication line anymore. In the cafeteria, Marquise greets her, and Selina shows the burner phone she stole from the construction worker (that he uses to cheat on his wife). She calls Tomcat and Eiko, giving them an update, but they refuse to go along with her orders to get out of town. Selina then orders her “girls” to get a charger for the phone, gets Tomcat’s update about Punchline’s plan to kill Eiko and Selina, and decides to break out – with all of her girls she can manage. She convinces her girls to form a thieves’ society (including charity donations) instead of an organized mob with a boss at her fight training.

Tomcat and Eiko Catwoman observe Dario’s father doing shady deeds but are attacked by the Queen of Hearts and her Crazy Eights henchmen. The Queen notices that Eiko isn’t Selina, but Eiko knocks her out and delivers her to the police. Selina sees the new inmates and changes her escape plans.

Analysis: Tini Howard’s confusing sort-of crossover storyline in her Catwoman run with her Punchline co-written miniseries continues, once again joined by original series artist Nico Leon. Once again, every character’s actions are mind-numbingly stupid, but the plot forces them to succeed or fail regardless of motives, plausibility, and above all, competence. Howard’s dialogue, back to her relentlessly self-righteous faux-snark peak, manages to add sloppy and grossly stereotypical to its list of accomplishments in the Queen of Hearts fight. Howard also attempts to persuade the reader of Catwoman #53 that Catwoman can inspire her girls to form a perfect communist society of thieves without any hierarchy – we’ll see if she makes it work once the girls break out with Selina. All in all, the book’s writing has found new depths to plumb in terms of quality and thematic exploration, an impressive feat given how low Howard has set the bar with this run so far.

Nico Leon’s art has improved since he started on this run, and he manages to create a really nice homage to tux-wearing Selina from Genevieve Valentine’s N52 run by Garry Brown, with Eiko’s chopsticks making the look her own early in the story. The fight scenes and Crazy Eights designs are nicely created, though the structuring of the fight is sadly extremely predictable and unsatisfying. It’s nice seeing the storytelling and figure work improving after a year on the book.

David Nakayama’s cover, though the shiny textures on Eiko’s cowl and costume seem out of place for the book, nicely highlights Eiko holding cards picturing the King and Queen on fire. Serg Acuna, jumping over from The Flash and Tim Drake: Robin interiors and covers, provides a dramatic and sexy homage to Alex Ross’s famous painting of Batman’s back covered in scars, with Selina posing in the same way – beautifully done shadows and musculature! Sweeney Boo (over from Harley Quinn with Howard’s writing) paints a sweetly mischievous Catwoman surrounded by roses, draped in pearls – also featured as a foil variant for the 1 in 50 incentive. After her gorgeous series of Batgirls incentive variants, Rian Gonzales provides a very cute Catwoman lying on a pile of gold, with many tiny chibi figures surrounding her winking visage. Lastly, Fables cover artist Qistina Khalidah paints a lovely rendition of Catwoman lounging, admiring jewelry as a hairless cat arches its back behind her.

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Overview: In Nightwing #102, it’s the Titans versus the Grinning Man for the fate of a little girl!

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Nightwing #102 begins, Nightwing awakens in the morgue and radios Oracle to assemble the Titans at Gar Logan’s mansion. There, the Grinning Man is disguised as Nightwing and moves Olivia outside, where Dick rushes in time to stop them. The Grinning Man flies with Olivia into the air, where he’s intercepted by Raven, Starfire, and Cyborg. Quickly defeated, he’s compelled by Donna Troy’s Lasso of Truth to reveal his origin story and his mission from Neron to bring Olivia to him.

Raven’s particularly upset at this, and later when the team goes over the information they’ve gathered, she suggests going down to the Nether World and getting answers straight from the source. Nightwing agrees and asks Donna and Kory to guard Olivia at Paradise Island while the rest goes down into Hell itself.

In the backup story, Superman asks to stick around with Nightwing to learn how to be a detective after the circus attack. Dick goes over the process of elimination, studying methods, means, and opportunity. After reviewing camera footage and talking with the prop safety inspector, Nightwing concludes that the person who cut the trapeze rope was one of the trapeze artists!

Analysis: I really liked this Nightwing #102. It read like a solid mix of old-school Dixon and McDaniel Nightwing with a healthy blend of Wolfman/Perez New Teen Titans. I had some preferential issues upon re-reading it, but for the most part, I think this is one of the creative team’s strongest efforts in a while.

A criticism of Taylor’s run that’s becoming more frequently discussed is his penchant to have Nightwing get out of hairy situations by calling for backup. While I get that Dick has connections all over the DC Universe, that’s a criticism generally. However, this story is clearly a lead-in to Taylor and Nicola Scott’s impending Titans book, and as such, it reads more of a team story than Nightwing and friends. Dick’s voice, in particular, felt very much like the leader of the Titans of old, commanding Oracle to assemble the others and quickly deducing what needs to happen. I liked a lot of the opening scenes. The Grinning Man is surprised that Nightwing is a normal person in a costume, something that often happens with Batman but not enough with his partners. I liked Dick’s focus and using being underestimated to his advantage. We also got a new gag with the Escrima sticks, which was cool and made sense for the fight.

Travis Moore’s artwork gives an added level of creepiness to the story, specifically in scenes with the Grinning Man. This is an artist chiefly used for depicting pretty people being pretty, and he’s made plenty good on illustrating Dick Grayson. But his talent for dark and weird imagery is one most unknown to me until now. Had the fight gone on longer – and I wish it did – we could’ve seen more of what both he and the Grinning Man were capable of. But I love the actual design of TGM, with the hollowed husk of a blackened figure, with just the creepy grin. It’s really cool.

The fight with TGM and the Titans could’ve gone on a little longer and been a bit more dynamic. Once he gets into the air and meets the flying three heroes, they could’ve waylaid on him more. We could’ve seen Wally attack him a bit more than a single punch. Yes, this guy was supremely outmatched, but Moore’s artwork does make some of the action feel a bit stiff and static, with the characters calmly just staring at each other. When TGM flies into the air, Nightwing looks like he’s just calmly watching him get away without much of a reaction to his powers of flight.

I liked bits of Raven taking the whole scheme personally and feeling increasingly angrier the more she learned of Neron’s involvement. This might continue into the Titans book, but it’s a good characterization of her nonetheless, and goes for more than her traditional feelings of guilt she always has with Trigon. Here, she’s both empathetic and angry.

The backup story continues to be moderately strong as well, and I really loved Eduardo Pansica’s artwork. The large panel of the original Batman and Robin team deducing the crime scene was really cool. I hope Pansica continues on at DC on large-profile titles. Also, any time Dick’s shown to be a brilliant detective, that’s always a plus. It’s too unsung of one of his best abilities.

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Overview: In Batman: One Bad Day: Ra’s al Ghul #1, the Demon’s Head is the closest to victory that he’s ever been, so long as Batman stays out of the picture.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Batman: One Bad Day: Ra’s al Ghul #1 begins a long time ago, as Genghis Khan’s army lays siege to a town. A seven-year-old Ra’s al Ghul flees, pursued by a conqueror. Ra’s is felled in the forest, and as the invader steps on him, pressing his face into the earth, wolves arrive. While the wolves tear out the throat of Ra’s attacker, the young boy dives into a nearby river, floating to wherever it will carry him.

An adult Ra’s al Ghul awakens in a Lazarus Pit. He is greeted by Talia, his daughter, and she reminds him of who he is, as well as her relation to him. Ra’s understands more than she realizes, though he doesn’t make it known.

Talia and Ra’s visit a wolf in the medical wing. Her name is Nadja, and he saved her from some captors who had caged her. She reminds him of his childhood, and she has been a faithful friend. Nadja, however, is suffering from cancer, and her hours are numbered. Ra’s agrees to end her suffering, holding her close and weeping for the friend he’s about to lose.

Ninety miles from the coast of Gotham, an old man named Edwards is warned that the communications on his boat have been severed. While he drinks and ignores the warnings, Ra’s al Ghul and his army arrive in helicopters.

The League of Assassins rips through Gerald Edwards’ men. When asked what he wants, Ra’s lets Gerald know that he’s gotten too big for his britches, having valued himself and his corporation over the planet’s future. Ra’s al Ghul kills Gerald’s son in front of him, then drowns the old man. As the ship sinks, the League of Assassins leaves, taking the body of Gerald’s son Harry with them (because they were overzealous and feared leaving evidence behind).

In the Batcave, Batman learns of Edwards’ death. Gerald was a friend of Thomas Wayne’s, and he was also the third high-profile corporate owner to die in a matter of weeks. Batman and Robin (Damian Wayne) take the Batboat to Edwards’ shipwreck.

At the wreck, Batman finds a handgun with two bullets missing. He decides to track down the coroner and ask some questions. The coroner confirms what he already knows, Edwards’s death was no accidental shipwreck. Chlorine in the lungs proves Edwards died in his own yacht’s pool, not the ocean.

Batman next goes undercover as Bruce Wayne, using Bruce as a way to talk to Julia Edwards, Gerald’s daughter. At her home, Bruce learns that Julia has no interest in seizing control of Roxxcorp, the family gas and coal company. She disagrees with the poisoning of the planet that her family’s company is responsible for. Bruce also learns that Julia is friends with Talia al Ghul, whom she trusts as an advisor.

Meanwhile, Talia tips off Ra’s to Bruce’s visit to Julia. Ra’s then hops on a flight to Gotham.

Batman tells Robin that of the high-profile people who have died, each one has had an heir who plans to change the direction of their companies to something more environmentally conscious. Though Robin questions Batman’s intent on protecting the remaining leaders of the biggest polluters on the planet, he can’t argue against his father.

After their call, Robin is visited by Ra’s, who demands that Damian return home. The two battle, but Ra’s ultimately wins, taking Robin “back home” because it will lure Batman out.

Batman arrives as planned, battling the League of Assassins in pursuit of his son. When the two meet, Ra’s threatens to murder Robin, stating that no life is worth more than the future of the planet. Ra’s then goes on to remind Batman that he’s lived for centuries and has seen what destruction humankind has wrought.

To him, what Ra’s has done is restraint. He’s replacing bad corporate leaders with ones more focused on the planet’s future. It’s his peace offering, but since Batman still won’t accept it, Ra’s has no choice but to slice Batman with a cutlass.

Robin runs to his father’s side as Batman bleeds out. With his dying breath, Batman hands over his cowl to Damian. He then asks Damian to promise not to kill anyone, not to let anger get the better of him. Robin accepts; Batman dies.

Robin can’t kill Ra’s, but he won’t stay at his grandfather’s side. He leaves. Meanwhile, Ra’s completes what he set out to do.

Three months later, Bruce reawakens in a Lazarus Pit, and Robin is there, ready to hand back the cowl. Against Robin’s wishes, Batman wishes to challenge Ra’s once more. The two fight, and Batman pushes on because Damian needs to see that those who kill never get away with it.

Ra’s loses, but before Batman can take him in, the Demon’s Head plummets to his death.

As Batman: One Bad Day: Ra’s al Ghul #1 comes to an end, two years later, Ra’s awakens in a Lazarus Pit in China. Talia is there to greet him, and though he usually awakens with rage and grief, it’s different this time. A new world is on the horizon.

Analysis: Batman: One Bad Day: Ra’s al Ghul #1 is an incredibly beautiful issue, and it may very well be one of the most eye-catching One Bad Day titles on the shelves. Artist Ivan Reis and colorist Brad Anderson create a monumental behemoth that gives readers pause. The paneling is exceptional, as is the pacing of the fight scenes. The battle between Batman and Ra’s al Ghul in the final few pages feels like a well-choreographed flurry of blows that is moody, poetic, and tense. If there’s one thing Batman: One Bad Day: Ra’s al Ghul #1 has going for it is that it’s a mastercraft in art, color, and beauty.

The story, however, is fine. It’s one we’ve seen over and over again from Ra’s al Ghul. A man who has lived for seven centuries and has seen humankind wreak havoc on the planet once more wants to take out those who would poison the Earth. This time, the twist is Ra’s Al Ghul succeeds, and that’s about it.

Batman dies and comes back to life after Ra’s has completed his mission. Damian Wayne and Talia al Ghul, while being present throughout the story, are sidelined and come across as pieces that propel the plot forward rather than as characters. Even Batman feels a little out of place, which could make sense, given that this entire issue is from Ra’s al Ghul’s perspective.

The problem is that it feels like one note. The art is incredible, and the narration is dripping with poetry and rhythm. The story, however, feels underbaked. It feels like there should be more, some emotional beat to cling to. What we get is Batman dying at Ra’s hand and coming back to life only a few short pages later. Robin weeps for his father, then does little else but leave and lie in wait for his father’s return. Why?

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 15, episode 5 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Review: Batman #133! Greater Gotham covers The Joker The Man Who Stopped Laughing #6, Batman and The Joker The Deadly Duo #5, Poison Ivy #10, Multiversity Harley Screws Up The DCU #1, Batgirls #16, Batman The Adventures Continue Season Three #3, The Batman and Scooby-Doo Mysteries #6, Batman Incorporated #6. Is Chip Zdarsky leading the Batman line? What is the best book in Gotham right now? If you listen, these questions and more will (or will not!) be answered. Send us your feedback at podcast@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on Twitter, or on our Discord server!

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DC Comics has announced that the successful Webtoon series, Batman: Wayne Family Adventures, will be collected in print form. The partnership between DC and Webtoon began with the series in 2021. Currently, the series is in the middle of releasing chapters for season two.

Both DC and Webtoon shared their thoughts on the announcement.

“Fans can’t get enough of our DC and WEBTOON content,” said Anne DePies, DC’s senior vice president and general manager, “and expanding DC’s creative partnership with WEBTOON into print with books like Batman: Wayne Family Adventures reflects this demand. Each page of these new volumes is meticulously reproduced to be read seamlessly in book narrative format. DC’s continuing partnership with WEBTOON combines legendary franchises with new technologies and global fandoms, and we can’t wait to get these new print editions into your hands.”

“We’re immensely proud of the stories we’ve been able to tell with DC and thrilled to bring these narratives to bookshelves,” said David Lee, VP of content at WEBTOON. “The creative teams behind these series have given fans fresh takes on legendary DC characters, and we’re excited to give WEBTOON and DC fans a new way to enjoy these titles.”

Volume one of the print version of Batman: Wayne Family Adventures will combine the first twenty-five stories from the series in collected form. It will be priced at $14.99 and released on August 1, 2023.

Also, part of the announcement included that two other series Webtoon is producing will also be collected in print; Vixen: NYC and Zatanna & the Ripper. With the first releasing in August and the second coming in October.

Are you looking forward to adding these print editions to your collection?

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Overview: In Batgirls #16, Steph, Cass, and Babs follow the Mad Hatter’s White Rabbit, and they face new and strange threats – from within!

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Batgirls #16 begins, the Batsignal and blimps fill the night sky as Officer Brooks gives Steph and Cass Batgirls the letter delivered to Grace O’Halloran a few weeks ago (last issue), which invites them to Mad Hatter’s tea party. Babs coordinates the Batgirls going to investigate from the Clock Tower, and Steph and Cass arrive at the location specified in the letter to find a super creepy tea party full of puppet Bat-Family members and the Hatter on a radio. They fight off the puppets, and Babs tracks the Hatter’s signal to the floor above them. However, Steph gets a face full of gas, transforming her into a Girl-Bat (some version of the Man-Bat serum). Though Steph-Bat initially becomes enraged, Cass is able to connect with Steph in her transformed state and calm her down. Steph-Bat breaks through the ceiling, revealing the evil Hatter, who revels in the chaos he created. Cass knocks him out and turns him over to Officer Brooks.

Later, as Steph-Bat flies through the Gotham skies with Cass on her back, Babs aims a tranq gun with the antidote at Steph, but Cass persuades her to let Steph fly until she’s tired, then give her the antidote. Babs agrees, and Batgirl and Girl-Bat fly into the night.

Analysis: After two really powerful issues – #14’s brilliant silent Cass adventure and #15’s gripping Steph vs. Cluemaster family almost-tragedy – this odd, wacky, Silver-Age-esque tale in Batgirls #16 feels both a bit disconnected and tonally odd. Though writers Becky Cloonan and Michael W. Conrad and artist Neil Googe (with finishes/inks on the last six pages by Geraldo Borges) put a lot of craft into the piece, the overall impact is uneven and emotionally confusing, especially in the depiction of Steph as Girl-Bat, a very grotesque image.

For all that unevenness in impact, there are a lot of pieces of this story that do work. Cloonan and Conrad include a lot of clever connections to the rest of the run – from Mr. Greene, the Batgirls’ creepy neighbor and murder victim, providing the doll robots for Mad Hatter, to the use of Officer Brooks. They also write a very poetic connection between Steph and Cass that allows Cass to break through the confusion and horror of Steph’s transformation with the power of their friendship, and the epilogue of Steph dreaming of flying is quite nice, even if there are still too many emotional consequences as a result of this issue and the last arc (where Steph died for a few minutes before being resurrected with the Lazarus serum). I’m really bummed that there was no connection between the Lazarus serum and the Man-Bat serum that transforms Steph in this issue – that really feels like a missed opportunity. Neil Googe also puts a lot of great detail and appeal into the pages of this issue – the cityscape of Gotham and the zany energy of the Batgirls in their swooping around the city and fighting the Bat-Family robots.

The news that Cloonan and Conrad are leaving their other major DC title, Wonder Woman, may or may not have any bearing on how long they continue on Batgirls. But after releasing issue #16, this run has officially passed Deathstroke Inc. and Teen Titans Academy. If it reaches its expected minimum of nineteen solicited issues this weekend, it will match or surpass Future State: Gotham, Superman: Son of Kal-El, and I Am Batman. It passed Green Lantern (twelve issues) long ago, with only one more issue to surpass Robin. Though the book has been controversial and hotly debated online since it first appeared in backups in Batman during Fear State, it’s actually managed a run that has significant staying power, and hopefully, whether they end in three or four issues or in closer to ten issues or more, Batgirls will be a title that has some memory in fandom after it’s gone, along many of its predecessors like Cassandra Cain’s 2000 Batgirl, Stephanie Brown’s 2009 Batgirl, and some of Babs’s most well-remembered runs like Burnside.

Jorge Corona’s main cover for Batgirls #16, originally solicited for several issues ago, is finally released in all its creepy Batgirls under the giant Hatter hat glory! David Marquez starts his promised four-cover series of Batgirl-focused cardstock variants with a lovely Cass Batgirl on a bright pink background. Robbi Rodriguez, the upcoming interior artist for the book for the next several issues, provides the 1:25 incentive cover, featuring Cass and Steph leaping across the cover against a pastel psychedelic background. Most appealing to this reviewer, Lynne Yoshii paints a gorgeous International Women’s Day variant with a huge Babs head in profile and Steph and Cass posting up for a fight against a bright yellow background – definitely a recommended cover for your collection!

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Spring is right around the corner, but Ian and Steph had some time to review the latest chapters of Batman: Wayne Family Adventures! Let’s find out all about the latest batch with our review of Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #73-75.

Steph: Hi Ian! Before we dive into Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #73-75, are you keeping warm?

Ian: Not really! As we write this, the midwest has gotten DUMPED on by a huge pile of snow! Which is pretty appropriate for this first chapter we’re reviewing!

Steph: For sure…Texas is in the 70s, so I can’t relate, but I’m sure someone can. Ep. 73 – Snowfall (Part 2)…the battle has commenced. Do you think the kids were too easily duped?

Ian: I think honestly that the kids don’t tend to coordinate too well together, so I wasn’t too surprised by how Bruce was able to bamboozle them – especially since he had the most secret of all secret weapons, ALFRED!

Steph: Yes! I’d say using Alfred was the smartest move he could have made…cause he’s got automatic armor – the kids would never want to hurt him! A “love shield,” I guess.

Ian: Of course! And I always think Alfred would be a pretty deadly shot, at least with a snowball!

Steph: He did cheat again, though…what is “The Thrasher”?

Ian: Looks like a less ridiculous version of the Hellbat to me! or maybe Rookie from the JimBats era!

Steph: I loved that the only real “casualty” was Dick…quite deep in the snow with Tim frantically trying to save him and Jason losing it. Very true to form.

Ian: Dick always leaps before he looks!

Steph: Lol. True.

Ian: So I’m curious – do you think this works best as a two-parter, or is it more of a stretched-out one-and-a-half strip story?

Steph: I thought it was a stretched-out half strip, though I did like the build-up and anticipation the first story set up by taking longer. What did you think?

Ian: It did have a lot of good character interactions, but I didn’t think the payoff was worth the extra strip. Maybe if there were a few more character payoffs in the second strip, I would think it was more worth the length.

Steph: Yeah, that’s fair. Thankfully the next silly one was only one strip…and it featured little Dick as Robin! Ep. 74 – Lesson Learned. I tell you what, it wasn’t the lesson I thought it was going to be.

Ian: SAME

Steph: How old is Dick, do you think? This has got to be Robin: Year 1.

Ian: I think Dick is clearly supposed to be under 12, perhaps even 10? I’m terrible at guessing the ages of real people and comic characters, but he looks so tiny and cute here.

Steph: They say “16 years ago”, so if he’s in his 20s, he’s got to be under 10. Do you think Dick is in his early 30s in this strip?

Ian: No, I’ve always thought Dick had a late 20s vibe in WFA. So I could see him being ten or even eiht, though eight is pushing it.

Steph: Yeah, my math is terrible; I guess he could be ten, and that would be fine.

Ian: I know this is a world where the villains aren’t nearly as terrifying as the main comics or movies, but I’m still a bit “HMMMMM” at Batman taking an 8-year-old out to fight Poison Ivy.

Steph: So, what lesson did you think was GOING to learn?

Ian: I mean…DID Dick learn his lesson? It didn’t seem so!

Steph: LOL. For sure. I was thinking it was going to be something with pheromones or getting distracted by a pretty lady or something. But this was much more… 10-year-old Richard Grayson issues.

Ian: Impulse control, for sure!

Steph: I loved how patient Ivy was with Batman while he dealt with “the new guy”

Ian: I will say, I was a bit bummed that the gag was basically repeated instead of thinking of another way for Dick to get in trouble while Batman is facing Ivy. That felt a bit of a letdown of creative inspiration.

Steph: I was hoping it had more to do with his puns. But the brother bonding at the end made up for the slightly lackluster gag for me.

Ian: For sure – Dick and Damian are always such a delight – I think partly because they have such perfectly contrasting personalities, and both have such distinct voices that are pretty commonly grasped by writers.

Steph: The last one tonight is Ep. 75 – Worth (Part 1) – another serious one exploring the Signal, Duke Thomas.

Ian: Er…don’t you mean our first serious one tonight?

Steph: That too. I thought it was an interesting dilemma to have, and I loved that he was talking to Luke about it. What did you think? Is this an issue worth exploring?

Ian: I think it’s an interesting one. Duke is such an amorphous character in the various versions of the Bat-Family that he appears in – from Snyder’s puzzle solver to Murphy’s ex-marine, to Bermejo’s stereotypical street kid player, to King’s studious student, to Hill’s cipher, to Thomas’s brilliant combination of serious, swagger, and sweet – while WFA has mostly treated Duke like “the new kid” in the Bat-Family, which doesn’t really connect to any version of Duke (except perhaps the weakest of comic versions of Duke, the Tony Patrick version).

The problem of Duke’s powers is one that I still haven’t come to terms with myself, but I think it’s definitely worth the comic exploring! I wish there were SOME consistency in any aspect of Duke’s character and powers. As a huge fan of Batwing, though, I’m always super happy to see him show up! What did you make of this first two-parter for Duke?

Steph: I think it was so interesting that in a world of metas, the Bat-Family stands out as the few without powers, and that makes Duke self-conscious. It was an interesting exploration of an “odd” or “reverse” problem to have. It also introduced what I hope we’ll see next episode – “who determines your worth?” Do you think this is too much like the Steph episode a while ago?

Ian: I don’t think it felt the same, but perhaps because I have a different history with Steph and Duke in the other comics. Steph’s history is that of being rejected over and over again, and Duke’s generally been pressured to join rather than being rebuffed, and I think there’s an element of that still preserved in WFA. Duke doesn’t have specific negative histories to look at in his conversation with Luke – more anticipation rather than memory if that makes sense. I’ll be very interested to see how they will resolve the issue!

Steph: Me too! I’m glad we get to get these deeper emotional explorations of the characters! They need more love.

Ian: That is, of course, why we love Wayne Family Adventures! Characters focused, low drama, high humor, and emotional beats!

Steph: Yeah yeah yeah.

Editor’s Note: You can find Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #73-75 and all other past chapters exclusively on the Webtoon platform. You can find all other reviews from the series here at The Batman Universe.

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Overview: In The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing #6, the Joker decides that a return to Gotham is in order, but not before teaching the people of L.A. a lesson in respect.

Story #1: “The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing ” Part 6 by writer Matthew Rosenberg and artist Carmine Di Giandomenico

Synopsis: The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing #6 begins at a comedy club in L.A. as the stand-up comedian is shocked to find one of his guests to be non-other than the Joker. Despite the comedian’s strong hesitation, the Joker demands that he roasts him, which the comedian does successfully up until he mentions Batman.

At that point, the Joker kills the man by burning his face off with acid, and as the horrified guests flee in panic, the Joker’s henchmen arrive, informing their boss that it’s about time for them to get a move on; their flight for Gotham leaves shortly.

At Griffith Park, twenty minutes later, the Joker informs his goon, Mr. Waffles, that they must make a quick pitstop. Their objective is to see a tree, which upon pulling up to their location, the Joker releases a pack of mountain lions from the back of the truck, freeing them into the wild within the city limits of L.A.

At the observatory, twenty minutes later, the Joker watches in glee as explosions rock throughout the city; several police stations have just been blown up, and the whole city will be shut down. The people of L.A. never truly feared him or gave the Joker the respect he feels he deserved. As such, they needed to be taught a harsh lesson.

In Gotham, detained behind bars, Jason Todd asks an officer what’s going on– something is keeping the police very busy. The office informs him that it’s his lucky day; the clown Jason confessed to killing isn’t quite so dead…but he will be when the LAPD finds him.

In Melrose Hill, chaos runs rampant everywhere. The Joker and his henchmen, on their way to LAX, are stopped by the beginning of a riot in the street, which only escalates to catastrophic in moments. The police, with orders to shoot on sight, are gunning for the Joker, and they aren’t playing games.

Under the streets of Gotham, Solomon Grundy cares for the Joker (the non-Clay Face one) in a morbidly caring way, ensuring he doesn’t die.

In Hollywood, yet another twenty minutes later, the Joker desperately tries to wave down a taxi to take him to the airport, with no success as he has no money. Fear and bribery tactics don’t work on the people of L.A. Just when all hope seems lost, a man cosplaying as Batman finds him, and they strike a deal: seventy/thirty, twenty bucks a picture with visitors to L.A. for the both of them. The busking technique works surprisingly well, as the tourists in L.A. find the opportunity to take a picture with Batman and the Joker extremely entertaining.

All good things must come to a swift end, however, when the Joker’s involved. The thought of splitting the proceeds didn’t sit too well with him, and a bullet to the head later, the Joker is set to go with all the cash the cosplaying Batman had accumulated that day.

Just as the man is about to actually hail a taxi, a staff smashes him on the head, knocking him to the ground. The Joker should never have come to L.A., as Manhunter is not at all pleased with his actions.

Analysis: Written by Matthew Rosenberg with art by Carmine Di Giandomenico, The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing #6 sees the Joker wreak havoc throughout the streets of L.A. through his usual methods of chaos, explosions, and carnage. The result earns him a (what looks like) broken nose and a staff smashed firmly on his head by the vigilante Manhunter, who isn’t impressed or appreciative of the Joker’s actions and lunacy.

Beyond a rather comedic, yet somewhat accurate, depiction of the city life in L.A. and the expressed sentiment that LAX is a rather difficult airport to travel from, the issue doesn’t provide much information for moving the plot forward or thickening the storyline. We do see, and now know, that Solomon Grundy is slowly but surely nursing the other Joker back to health below the streets of Gotham. Jason Todd, now imprisoned (in what looks like a regular jail, which, wouldn’t he be sent to some other, much more secure, top-of-the-line, max-security prison?), now knows that the “man” he killed, presumed to be the Joker, is very much still alive and parading around in L.A.

Where Batman (and the rest of the family) is in all this, and why no one is addressing the issue in L.A. (at least that we can see), is an interesting question that I believe might come to almost any reader’s mind. Furthermore, it’s most likely safe to assume that Jason isn’t happy with the recent word on the street and will try again. Perhaps that will be the series of events that draws in the rest of the Gotham heroes.

Story #2: “The Joker” by writer Ryan Cady and Matthew Rosenberg and artist Will Robson

Synopsis: Ralph, a veteran employee of Haley’s Circus, spends his days bringing joy and entertaining children, and being a true family man. After work one day, Ralph is informed that his twin brother, Edward (who last Ralph saw was calling himself the Joker in Gotham City), is now dead. He tried to ride Man-Bat like a horse and ended up being eaten.

Thus, a trip to Gotham is in order, and shortly after the service, Ralph prepares for the reading of the will, where he finds that his dying brother’s wish is for Ralph to conclude his unfished business. This happens to be a list of dozens of planned and yet-to-be-executed sinister schemes, each more ludicrous than the last.

Ralph, determined to fulfill his late brother’s last wish, gets to work and finds that fulfilling each sinister scheme isn’t as terrible as he thought it would be. Potentially, Edwards’s posthumous plan was not to complete his legacy but to ensure it lives on. Ralph decides that he won’t return to his oversimplified suburban life but will stick around in Gotham a while longer, and those that meet him can call him…the Joker.

Analysis: This secondary story provides one line of thinking of how the Joker might have come to be. Twin brothers who live very different lives as very different people, until death takes one and the other must fulfill their dying wish…to become, long story short, a criminal.

This short story isn’t as weird as some of the past ones (um, the Joker being pregnant and that whole severely uncomfortable tale is still in the first place) but most definitely remains quirky enough to fit alongside the others.

The art in this story, by Will Robson, has a somewhat shiny, cartoon-like feel, which only adds to the overall strangeness of the tale. Again, as a full disclaimer, these sorts of stories are most definitely not my cup of tea but do get points for being bizarre–and most definitely–different.

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Overview: In Batman #133, Bruce Wayne becomes Batman once more to save a different Gotham City in another part of the multiverse.

Story #1: “The Bat-Man of Gotham” Part 3 by writer Chip Zdarsky and artist Mike Hawthorne

Synopsis: Batman #133 begins in a warehouse in the Gotham City of another universe, as the Riddler (Edward Nygma) judges the cognitive abilities of children through riddles. If they can’t answer, he sentences them to Arkham. The venomized police officers escorting Riddler notice something moving around up above and investigate. One of their own plummets to the ground in front of them, unconscious.

When another officer is strung up, Riddler takes a boy hostage. Something is thrown through his hand, disarming him of his handgun. Batman then leaps at Riddler, taking down the terrified rogue.

At Arkham, Selina Kyle confronts Red Mask. She tells him that this fighter is very good but lies by claiming that it’s not Bruce Wayne. She presumes that he’s also the same guy who dressed up as Batman and put Riddler in the hospital. After showing a picture of a hospitalized Nygma, she confronts Mask on Riddler’s abduction of children. Selina tells Mask that she wants no part of a plan that involves children, but before she can finish, Mask knocks her to the ground, demanding that she do what he asks and bring in this “Bat-Man.”

At the Gotham City cemetery, Batman exhumes the corpse of this world’s Bruce Wayne. As he digs, he tries to put the pieces together, wondering if Darwin Halliday (this world’s Joker) is the real threat behind everything or if Halliday tried to save Bruce. As Batman opens Bruce’s coffin, Alfred Pennyworth aims a gun at the Caped Crusader.

Batman unmasks himself and tells Alfred that he’s from another world. In his world, the Alfred he knew was “a kind man who stood up to evil.” Batman tells Alfred that he will do just that, but he needs to examine Bruce’s corpse to find out how this world’s hero died. Batman leaves with the body, and Alfred remains behind. Alone. Alfred drops to his knees and weeps.

At the Wayne Mission, Jewel plays lookout while Batman uses medical equipment to examine Bruce’s body. Batman learns that Bruce was poisoned by gas, but there are also traces of multiversal energy.

Outside, Judge Dent arrives with the police in force. Batman tells Jewel to alert the staff of the Wayne Mission and help get residents out. He suspects that Dent will raze the building to the ground.

Batman engages Dent, and the two fight it out in the rain. Batman uses his wits to take Dent down quickly in front of a couple of officers. The officers run, and while Batman questions Dent, Catwoman arrives.

Catwoman offers to lead Batman to Red Mask, and though he doesn’t fully trust her, it’s the one lead he has. Batman follows her, and she leads him not to Arkham Asylum. Rather, Catwoman reveals that there’s a whole city beneath Gotham, and it’s known as Arkham Caves.

Analysis: Readers of Batman #131 and Batman #132 will know that Bruce Wayne has submerged himself in the crime-ridden, dystopian police state of another Gotham City in the multiverse. Though this world’s Bruce Wayne is dead, by the end of the previous issue, Bruce from the main DC universe realizes that he must become the Dark Knight once more to save this Elseworlds Gotham. Batman #133 leaps straight into the action with Bruce sporting a homemade Batsuit.

There are some big villain moments in this issue. In the first few pages, Batman takes down Riddler decked out in red. Though the police officers are clearly Venom-enhanced, the jury is out for Riddler. In some panels, he looks normal size, but in others, Riddler is massive and imposing, taking on the weird, top-heavy body of that unsettling Legends of the Dark Knight Laughing Gas Joker action figure that Kenner released in 1997. It’s a little jarring, but the setup does make for a cool intro to this bare-bones Batman.

The other big villain moment comes near the end of the issue, wherein Batman uses his wits to take down Judge Dent swiftly. Though the visuals by artist Mike Hawthorne and colorist Tomeu Morey are stunning, complete with a rainy, street-level backdrop, this battle is more interested in propelling Batman to his next encounter than it is in drawing any excitement from the readers.

In fact, that’s a problem with this issue as a whole. Writer Chip Zdarsky and the creative team introduce new information on almost every page, either filling in background information about this Gotham or moving the plot forward, but the grit and noir vibe that inhabited the previous two issues has given way to nothing here. There’s no tension. There’s no real excitement. Batman dispatches two villains easily, as well as finds some clues about the death of this world’s Bruce. The only real moment of emotion in this entire issue is when Alfred confronts Bruce at the cemetery, and though the paneling is wonderful in the cemetery scene, the moment passes as quickly as it arrives, as other moments need to be stuffed into this issue. This results in an action-packed, eventful issue where we aren’t given moments to meditate or process what just happened, let alone get excited or learn of any real stakes in each encounter.

To be fair, Batman #133 isn’t bad. Visually, Hawthorne and Morey do a fantastic job of creating a grimy, disgusting, yet fantastical Elseworlds Gotham. There isn’t much tension or reason to care in this chapter. More than anything else, Batman #133 feels like a bridge between two more important moments, rushing us to the next issue’s big moment in Arkham Caves.

Story #2: “The Toy Box” Part 3 by writer Chip Zdarsky and artist Miguel Mendonca

Synopsis: Leaping into action from the last issue’s backup, Robin (Tim Drake) finds himself surrounded by Toyman and his toy soldiers. Robin shuts himself back into a barn where he’s rounded up the Gothamites trapped here and begins distributing the teleportation discs Mr. Terrific gifted him in a previous backup. One of the survivors tells Robin that there’s another person out there, and Robin blows a hole in the barn and uses a tracker to find this last survivor.

Robin winds up in a lab where another Toyman is operating on a living person. This Toyman isn’t fully alive, but Robin reminds himself of the rules Batman and himself play by — no killing. Robin takes down this “Bioman,” just as the first Toyman enters with his army. Grabbing Toyman and the last survivor, Robin activates his suit. This sends himself, Toyman, the last survivor, and all of the other survivors holding discs back to Mr. Terrific. Once back, Robin tells Mr. Terrific that Toyman will help them get Batman back.

Analysis: It’s not evident whether this backup will serve any greater purpose or not. The obvious answer is that Toyman is somehow involved in Bruce Wayne’s teleportation to (and from) this other Gotham. Beyond that, this Robin-centric backup feels more like filler, serving readers with a low-stakes action romp that doesn’t have enough time to do much other than hop through the beats of nabbing Toyman and bringing him back to the main universe.

There’s an attempt to pen some heart into this backup with Robin reminding himself not to kill the toy soldiers or the “fake” Toyman, despite them looking like animatronics, but it’s not enough to really make this backup interesting.

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 15, episode 4 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Review: Detective Comics #1069! Greater Gotham covers Nightwing #101, Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #12, Catwoman #52, DCeased: War of the Undead Gods #6, One Bad Day: Clayface, Lazarus Planet: Omega, Batman vs. Robin #5, GCPD: The Blue Wall #5, Harley Quinn #27, The Riddler Year One #3, Tim Drake: Robin #6, Punchline: The Gotham Game #5, DC/RWBY #1. What additional rating did we add to Greater Gotham, and why? We once again grapple with the return of Ian’s favorite question! These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at podcast@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on Twitter, or on our Discord server!

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In this latest episode, Dane and Tim discuss the newest trailer for The Flash movie, the news of more Lord of the Rings films, their first concert experiences, and give reviews of Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, and the latest episode of The Last of Us!

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Overview: In Harley Quinn #27, it is discovered that Poison Ivy is Harley’s true love in every part of the Multiverse.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Harley Quinn #27 begins, the Harleys are facing the Harley Who Laughs, who is controlling a chained, gagged Poison Ivy. Harley is narrating, and she is essentially breaking the fourth wall – she perceives the audience and is addressing us. She tells the audience her plan before she reveals it to Batwoman: She is going to jump into the Multiverse to find the Ivy Who Laughs. The Harley Who Laughs reveals that her Ivy was taken from her. Batwoman, Kevin, and Older Harley object to her plan, and Present Harley freezes them all in a classic improvisational style. Present Harley explains to the audience that her story will have a backup Multiverse Jumper (replacing the one the heroes destroyed), and off they pop.

In the Harley Who Laughs’s universe, the team is attacked by Joker’s Henchmen Who Laugh, and a battle ensues. They capture a henchman who tells them where Ivy is being held captive. A giant emerges from the tower where Ivy is held and threatens the heroes, but he is immobilized by the Ivy Who Laughs. They embrace, and Present Harley heads back to our universe. She sends the Harleys home with instructions to find their Ivy. With Kevin on the Gotham Piers, she muses that a home is a person. She says, “goodbye and thank you.”

Analysis: And so writer Stephanie Phillips’s run on the Harley Quinn book ends with Harley Quinn #27. The Harley Who Laughs arc never had much going for it and felt thin and rushed from the start, as all of the last few arcs of Phillips’s run did. It is fascinating to see Harley break the fourth wall, and the device effectively builds the emotional resonance fans may be experiencing. When Harley says “goodbye and thank you,” we understand, of course, that this is Phillips speaking, as she arguably has throughout the run, via Harley herself.

All in all, Phillips did a tremendous job with Harley Quinn, and I love the Harley that she has given us. This Harley feels like a real person: Brilliant, vivacious, hilarious, angry, sad, loyal, ferocious, compassionate, guarded, and above all, complex. Harley is on a redemption journey, but it is a fragile thing, and like any redemption narrative, its outcome is far from certain.

Readers of these reviews know that despite the fit with the character, I have never enjoyed Riley Rossmo’s art, and the substitution of Matteo Lolli’s realistic linework and expressive faces has been a dramatic improvement.

I am more than a bit apprehensive to see what new author Tini Howard has in store for our hero but am excited to see the renderings of artist Sweeney Boo.

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Overview: In Detective Comics #1069, Batman’s allies, both expected and unexpected, help him recover from his battle against the Orghams, and the Bat-Family begins to come together against this insidious force.

Story #1: “Gotham Nocturne Act 1” Part 4 by writer Ram V and artist Dexter Soy with Stefano Raffaele and Miguel Mendonca

Synopsis: As Detective Comics #1069 begins, Ten-Eyed Man and Two-Face wait over the badly injured Batman as Ten-Eyed Man’s insanity appears to pierce the veil of the future and the spirit. Batman wakes, and Two-Face drives off his fellow madman to speak to Bruce, saying Harvey and Two-Face both know Bruce’s identity and they will help Bruce but threaten his family if he tries to destroy the Two-Face personality again. The Orghams attack, and in a flash forward, the golden-eyed Orgham Shavhod observes the effects of the battle.

Gordon talks to Babs about the two days since Batman was injured, and Batman shows up at his private detective agency door.

Shavhod and the werewolf Gael report to Prince Arzen about the difficulty of fighting Batman, as if he were a virus or addiction. Arzen orders more and more of the Gotham poor turned into Azmer demon-possessed soldiers, forcing Gotham to break her addiction to Batman and come to the Orghams.

Commissioner Montoya feels something is wrong, even though crime is way down despite dramatic terror attacks, but her police chief says to take the win and embrace the Orghams. Renee resists the temptation to put on her Question mask and investigate but calls Eric Wells (parole officer from GCPD: The Blue Wall who quit) to her office instead.

Gordon patches Bruce up, keeping his mask on, but tells him Bruce can’t keep it up, but Bruce says he’ll give everything he has and then give more. Gordon points Batman to Oracle and her discoveries about the sewers. Babs tells Batman there are patterns beneath the city – Freeze has been building a cooling network. Cassandra Cain Batgirl is investigating, and she finds the cages of the poor waiting to be infected with an Azmer demon. One of Catwoman’s pupils, the Stray who calls herself Shoes or Cheshire Cat (Lian Harper, daughter of Roy the Red Arrow), breaks free of the cages. She gets shot in the leg, but Solomon Grundy comes to her aid in the sewers.

Analysis: In the fourth installment of the first act of Gotham Nocturne, Ram V brings in a major development in his complex opera – the Bat-Family. Not only does Batman have support from Jim Gordon (as before), Barbara Gordon and Cassandra Cain make major appearances that promise more to come, much to the delight of any Bat-Family fans who have been waiting for Ram V to use the tools available against such a huge and insidious threat like the Orgham family and their demonic allies.

The art team of primarily Dexter Soy (perhaps best known for his work on Red Hood and the Outlaws and Batman and the Outsiders in the Rebirth era), Stefano Raffaele and Miguel Mendonca proves an excellent artistic mesh with previous series artists Ivan Reis and Rafael Albuquerque – thick, painterly lines, dramatic and bold renderings of character designs. Adriano Lucas’s colors also help maintain a strong continuity of look with Dave Stewart’s past work on this run, full of dark, bloody reds, angry yellows, and pale blues, reflecting the elegiac tone of the story Ram V is playing.

A few notes are odd or clunky in Detective Comics #1069. Jim calling his daughter “Barb,” though not unheard of, does seem odd instead of the fatherly “Barbara” or the friendly “Babs.” The thematic connection between Batman and the City is perhaps overly hammered home in this issue multiple times – and that may be the point of what Ram V is trying to say about Batman, but it feels overly obvious compared to the allusive, sideways way he’s approached his themes for the past seven months. Perhaps a petty detail, but when Jim mentions all he’s lost to Gotham’s cruelty over his life, he omits his second bride, Sarah Essen Gordon. After James Tynion IV brought her memory back in his brilliant The Joker series, it’s frustrating to those of us who loved her and were heartbroken at her fate in No Man’s Land to see her forgotten once again. Lastly, though Ram V carefully includes some action scenes, they are once again distant feeling, almost an afterthought – never where the emotional weight is. Perhaps appropriate to the story he’s telling, but time will tell if this approach to action pays off.

There are several moments where Ram V and his artistic collaborators hit just the right notes. The warm moment between Jim and Batman is beautifully constructed, using timing and silent panels to really highlight the strength of their connection. Seeing Cassandra Cain investigate the terrifying sewers is brilliant, as is the return of Ram V’s version of Lian Harper, first seen in his excellent Catwoman run. Lastly, the image of Batman flying over the city, cut in half with Oracle’s pattern map, is incredibly striking – Ram V’s been blessed with truly excellent artistic collaborators in this run, but there’s room to hope that even when name-brand artists like Reis and Albuquerque aren’t available, Soy, Raffaele and Mendonca and pick up the tone and style beautifully – though hopefully, they won’t have to use three artists per issue regularly.

Story #2: “Absolute” Part 1 by writer Simon Spurrier and artist Caspar Wijngaard

Synopsis: The backup in Detective Comics #1069 sees Dr. Mead, Two-Face’s psychiatrist, thinking about the necessary illusion of choice as she is imprisoned by Mr. Freeze after Two-Face helped/ordered her to flee Gotham. Freeze is running experiments on rats and the strange patterns under Gotham City. Attacked by the Orgham’s azmer army, he freezes them, crushing Mead’s hopes again. He’s obsessing over how Nora hated him when she was unfrozen (in Tomasi’s Detective Comics) and freezes Mead while playing a tune that supposedly will prevent the brain damage he blames for Nora’s hatred. As she freezes, Mead discovers a spiritual entity calling itself Earworm.

Analysis: Continuing to weave threads from his backup run on this title and the work he’s clearly doing to collaborate with Ram V on the main stories, Si Spurrier starts another three-part backup, this one focusing on Mr. Freeze. I have to admit – I’m not a fan of Spurrier in general, but these backups have been improving for me a lot, and this one particularly beautifully picks up threads from Ram V’s run and Peter Tomasi’s run on Detective Comics a few years ago in a way that makes perfect sense and shows the terrifying nature of Batman’s coldest villain. The helplessness of our viewpoint character, Dr. Mead, makes us desperately hope that she can survive her encounter with yet another of Batman’s rogues, and the newly created (probably) villain Earworm is quite an interesting development! Caspar Wijngaard’s art is much clearer than Spurrier’s last two collaborators and is a very nice complement to the art in the main story.

Evan Cagle continues his main cover run with a piece showcasing Batman holding Two-Face’s mask for Detective Comics #1069, surrounded by spooky Cupids – perhaps overstating the importance of Two-Face to this particular issue, but definitely following the threads of Ram V’s story. J. H. Williams III’s variant (also used as an incentive foil variant) presents Batman surrounded by a bloody liquid claw, a more abstract visualization of the battle between Bruce and the Orghams. Ivan Reis’s variant, a beautifully gold-hued portrait of Batman standing over Talia lying in a boat, surrounded by candles, seems an odd choice, given Talia’s pretty small part in the run so far, but perhaps foreshadows more to come! Lastly, Colleen Doran’s 1:25 incentive variant shows Batman ripping open his shirt, Superman style – but an actual bat bursts out of a fiery chest cavity, in a violent twist on the motif.

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A “no frills” episode this time out. I review Batgirl #51-52 (2004) and Batgirls #15, along with a quick look at some modern “quickies” featuring Nightwing. Listener emails, “Shag’s Mac and Cheese of Comfort and Joy,” and literature recommendations also appear.

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Overview: In Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #12, Robin and Supergirl go on a super date, and everything goes awry.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #12 begins months ago, Thursday, in Gotham City, a landlord enters one of his tenant’s apartments without forewarning. The tenant, shocked and appalled, demands to know why the landlord is there. The landlord says it’s because the tenant kept a monkey in the apartment, which is illegal. When the tenant finds out that the landlord had the monkey removed, the tenant runs out into the hallway, screaming for his pet, “Bingo.”

On Friday, in the Batcave, Batman returns from patrol and asks a visibly upset Robin (Dick Grayson) how his date with Supergirl went. “It went,” Robin mutters, busying himself with a doodle. It’s a doodle of his original Nightwing outfit, and he’s thinking of changing his identity because he blew his date with Supergirl. Batman reminds Robin that Supergirl will know it’s him.

At the Fortress of Solitude, Superman asks Supergirl how her date went. She recounts that on the night of the Man-Bat invasion of Boston, Robin, Black Lightning, and herself battled multiple Man-Bats together. When Robin saved himself from near death, Supergirl asked him out.

On Thursday, the day of the date, Supergirl gets all dressed up in a fashionable outfit, only to grow upset when she spies Robin in his superhero costume at the restaurant. She changes into her superhero outfit, grabbing all the eyes as she joins Robin at his table. She’s upset, and Robin, confused, tells her that they were in costume when they set the date, so he just assumed it was in costume.

The two get off to a rocky start. Meanwhile, outside, the tenant is running around searching for Bingo, his pet monkey. In the kitchen of the restaurant, the manager is screaming at his wait staff to make the dishes truly special as Robin and Supergirl are dining in.

Robin and Supergirl go into their backgrounds, each one making awkward mistakes during the course of their conversation. It’s tense, but they both nervously apologize to each other when called out for their comments.

Back at the Batcave, Robin tells Bruce Wayne how Supergirl reacted when he told her about his dead parents. Bruce levels with Dick, letting him know that everyone in Supergirl’s family died.

At the restaurant, while Robin and Supergirl wait forever for their food, Bingo, the pet monkey, is running around outside. Bingo leaps from a light post down onto a truck, causing a crash. The backdoor of the truck opens up, and hundreds of bowling balls fly out. These bowling balls lead to even more car crashes and mass chaos. Robin and Supergirl leap into action.

They both start out by saving people. When Robin spots the monkey, he goes to intercept it. Supergirl saves an older lady who compliments her beautiful hair. Just then, Robin, with a monkey attached to his face, knocks Supergirl into a fountain. After the monkey is returned to the tenant and everyone is safe, the two resume their meal. After they finish eating, Robin realizes he forgot to bring cash. He tells Supergirl to wait while he quickly changes out of costume and hits an ATM, but Supergirl says that she’ll pay, though she’s not happy about it.

Outside of the Fortress of Solitude, Supergirl and Superman fly around while Supergirl recounts her story. When she asks why Superman isn’t defending Robin, he says it’s not his place to tell her who to date. Supergirl says that while she wants to kill Robin, she feels bad for judging him as she watched him “tie himself in knots” for approval.

In the Batmobile, Batman and Robin drive around, and Batman advises Robin to take the loss and move on. When Robin laments that guys like them never have things work out for them, Batman tells Dick that he can’t force chemistry. People either click or don’t.

Analysis: Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #12 is a cute one-shot that plays into a running theme in this series thus far, the flirtation between Robin and Supergirl. There’s no world-ending threat here, just awkward, uncomfortable, ridiculous bad chemistry between the two heroes as they make every wrong move possible. Robin and Supergirl misunderstand and misinterpret each other left and right, and the icing on the cake is, outside of the restaurant on their appointed date, a runaway monkey is causing an incredible pileup of cars and bowling balls.

This issue is cute, light-hearted, and sweet, and in typical Mark Waid fashion, there’s a greater message that comes across as Supergirl recaps her date with Superman while Robin does the same with Batman. Sometimes people don’t click, and while we may enjoy working with others, sometimes we don’t like who we are when romancing colleagues or coworkers. The message is the icing on a colorful, playful delight of a read.

Emanuela Lupacchino provides the pencils for this issue, with Tamra Bonvillain maintaining that bright, beautiful pop of color readers have come to cherish throughout this series. Lupacchino’s pencils excel at delivering the very animated expressions that propel this narrative forward. The awkward tone really lands because Supergirl and Robin are so dramatic in their reactions and fumble with each other.

Simply put, this one-off is just a fun break from the nonstop action we’ve seen in World’s Finest.

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Overview: In Catwoman #52, Selina continues to claw her way up the food chain in prison as Eiko and Dario make plans for Gotham’s crime families.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Catwoman #52 begins with Eiko Hasigawa, leader of the Yakuza in Gotham, and current Catwoman now that Selina’s doing a bit of time for killing her lover Valmont, teaching Dario Tomasso, estranged scion of the Italian crime family in Gotham, how to drive. Badly. They get some drinks to prepare for their meeting with the other Four Families of Crime.

In jail, Selina meets with her lawyer, Ms. Ventura, who tries to convince her that Punchline killed Valmont, but Selina’s guilt refuses to let her take the out. Meanwhile, she makes many friends and influences people with the line of snack food from Eiko and Dario, and runs an “Advanced Thieves” course for a select group of women. She protects one of her girls and gets herself back in solitary (her “office,” as she calls it), and gets a note from Bruce tied to her cat, who crawls around the vents.

At the meeting, Eiko calls for Catwoman’s head to conceal her double life, blustering in an attempt to compete with Black Mask’s hold on the mob. Outside, Dario tases his ex-boyfriend Noah (who tried to kill him recently) and tells him he’s declaring war on him personally. Eiko comes out, and as they change into Catwoman and Tomcat, she tells him firmly he must only act violently as Tomcat, and they set out to disrupt the plans she noticed at the meeting.

Catwoman dreams of her sister Maggie and rereads Bruce’s note. She then sets the next part of her plan in motion, breaking out of solitary and meeting her select few (Linda, a Scarecrow henchwoman, Scorpiana, Vox, Lady Clayface, and Hoops) in the jail chapel, and teaches them “Advanced Combat.”

Analysis: Tini Howard’s “Selina in Prison” arc continues in Catwoman #52, as Eiko takes Selina’s place in trying to play the mob as Catwoman on the outside while Selina recovers emotionally and forms her own gang on the inside. Veteran artist Sami Basri continues on art, providing very appealing, assured, and mostly coherent storytelling and figure work. One odd exception to Basri’s coherency appears in Eiko’s meeting with the mob, where she throws one of her father’s shuriken at Black Mask but is holding it in the next panel – it’s possible that she’s meant to have more than one, but not well communicated. On the whole, however, Basri and colorist Veronica Gandini do a very solid job on the art, not relying too heavily on coloring and CGI finishes to fill out weak and underbaked linework as the first part of this run too often did.

Howard’s writing has some distinct upsides in Catwoman #52 – Selina’s connection to Bruce is underlined three times – a tad redundantly, but it’s nice seeing Howard drawing heavily on the romance between the two, even if she does lean extremely hard on “Bruce won’t tell Selina directly what to do because he respects her, but he still tells her what to do in subtext” in their communication. It’s nice seeing Howard actually develop Selina’s fellow prisoners and Selina’s plan, though why we’re supposed to root for Selina and her select women who prey on the other inmates is unclear, as is how Selina actually does any of the things she’s doing, like breaking out of solitary and gathering all her women together in the chapel. The connections with the Punchline book through Selina’s determined lawyer continue to remind the reader of the gigantic disruption in issue #50 from the semi-crossover between this book and the Punchline miniseries that Howard is co-writing.

While Selina’s plotline is definitely on the upswing from the last several issues, Eiko has picked up the idiot ball that Selina dropped when she went to jail, sadly. Her plan to compete with Black Mask is to bluff and bluster, sneak looks at the plans of the mob, then go directly to disrupt them as Catwoman, giving Roman Sionis even more ammunition against her as Catwoman’s creature – which she is, even if she’s a lot more direct about it than Sionis may think. Dario also picks up his share of the idiot ball in confronting his ex-lover Noah in public and as himself, though it’s nice to see Eiko taking a harder line with him (even if the way she does it is cringe-inducingly badly written in dialogue, both in the driving instructor and Catwoman and Tomcat scenes). All in all, though more positives stand out than in many past issues of Howard’s run, the negatives still continue to render it overall a difficult reading experience.

David Nakayama continues his run as the main cover artist with an extremely shiny (and extremely skin-tight) costumed Eiko Hasigawa (who also gets title credit in the trade dress, interestingly). Original main interiors artist Nico Leon also continues his stint providing 1 in 25 incentive variants featuring his design sketches, this time for Tomcat (a deeply unfortunate name and costume, sadly). Sweeney Boo’s cardstock variant features a lovely if generic Catwoman (Selina) pouring milk for her cats in a perhaps provocatively bent-over posture. Rounding out the main covers, Joshua Swaby paints an oddly not playful Bat/Cat post-kissing pose, Selina’s lipstick on Bruce’s stoic face.

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Overview: In Nightwing #101, the Titans have moved to Blüdhaven, and not a moment too soon as a mystery puts them and Nightwing in the sights of Neron from the Underworld!

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Neron, ruler of the Underworld, is less than pleased after his minions report back failure to retrieve the soul of Blockbuster’s daughter. Understanding that the soul is protected by Raven, Neron goes to the Grinning Man to request his assistance.

As Nightwing #101 continues over in Blüdhaven, Olivia Desmond is playing with Raven and Beast Boy when Nightwing arrives and informs them that a body was found at the site of the formerly pristine and now destroyed Titans Academy. When Starfire arrives on the scene, she manages to lift the rubble and recover the body, whom everyone discovers to be the late King of Vlatava – the same person the Grinning Man is currently masquerading as. Later, Amanda Waller shows up to inform the Titans that a forensic investigator from the King’s country wishes to assist in the investigation.

At the local morgue, Nightwing tells the investigator his deductive findings, concluding that the King has been dead for at least two weeks. Bizarrely, the investigator merely grins at the body. When Nightwing next turns away from her, he’s hit on the head by a metal instrument, and the investigator – The Grinning Man revealed – morphs into him.

The second story in Nightwing #101 picks up three months after the events of the Nightwing Annual. During that time, Dick has been training Jon Kent, and the two are on patrol together. In the field, Superman hears the snap of a circus trapeze rope, and they arrive in time to save the acrobats. Nightwing observes the rope and sees that it was cut, then instructs Superman to scan the nearby area. Superman finds a bomb in the stands and warns everyone to evacuate just as the bomb goes off!

Analysis: I have to say, Nightwing #101 was a very good start to a Titans storyline involving mystery, intrigue, genuine danger, and picking up of a thread from a few months back. Now that we know that Tom Taylor is gearing up to write the new Titans series, one understands that this is clearly a lead-in to that book. For what it’s worth, I think it works great.

It reads entirely like a Titans comic. There are a few narration boxes from Dick, but we get more of the Titans members – particularly Kory – than I was figuring we might. I also think the artwork by Travis Moore especially worked in the story’s favor. Nicola Scott will be doing art duties over on that book, but the Titans team always benefits from being rendered naturalistic and sexy. I’ve recently revisited some of the original New Titans series during the Eduardo Barretto days in the late 1980s, and it’s just as solid as the late George Perez’s stuff. I think Titans will always be better as a soap opera-tiered comic rather than a straight superheroic one.

We don’t get much soap opera here, though, and I wonder if Taylor’s interested in that. We’ve got Kory, but Barbara’s neither present nor mentioned in this. Not that I’d want any cat-fighting, but Kory and Barbara’s relationship is honestly non-existent and has been for too many years. Dick and Kory’s past hasn’t been greatly addressed since Rebirth, aside from a hook-up in the early pages of Titans Academy, and some fireworks in the romance department could shake things up. There’s also what’s been going on with Gar in the aftermath of the Dark Crisis event, Wally and his status quo, and whatever the heck Donna is up to. All of this is to say I’m wondering what led Taylor to take on the Titans aside from just being a Dick Grayson fan. This has happened before, previously with Marv Wolfman and before that with Devin Grayson. Being a Nightwing and Titans writer takes on some heavy lifting in regard to development, and I’m looking forward to it, even if I’m unsure what might happen in the near future.

I’m not talking too much about the story, and it’s a solid first part. I’m not at all familiar with the Grinning Man and wonder if this is a first appearance of a new character. Happy to be corrected if otherwise. His appearances as the king and the investigator AND as Nightwing were all really creepy, especially the second to last panel with Nightwing in shadow, but his grin kept in white. This was by the far the creepiest, most suspenseful issue of Taylor’s run, and I’m glad we’re ending with a genuine cliffhanger. Before, he blew it with that weak resolution to the cliffhanger with Blockbuster, Melinda, and Electrocutioner. Here Dick is badly injured, and the Grinning Man is about to get Olivia. I’m eagerly waiting to see how this gets resolved.

The backup story was good, with good art, but it was very straightforward, with little in the way to chew on analytically. From the looks of it, it seems like Heartless is behind the attack, which may continue into this book if the main story leads into the Titans series.

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In this episode of The Batman Universe Podcast, Carl Newman, Michael Keaton’s movement double from Batman (1989), joins co-host Scott Waldyn for an epic interview! The two talk about Carl’s role in the film and the iconic, character-defining actions and movements that helped make Batman the landmark film it has since become.

For those not in the know, Carl was brought onto the project to add elegance and grace to Batman’s movements on screen. The athleticism and professional ballet background Carl Newman brought as a movement double gave Batman fluidity in many pivotal scenes, including Batman’s quick turn with the cape, leaping to action in the Batmobile, descending on criminals in the film’s opener, a final showdown with The Joker, and more!

Tune in as Carl divulges memories from production, sharing behind-the-scenes details about fan-favorite moments and explaining how some of Batman’s iconic moments were made. Scott and Carl have a fun, lengthy discussion about Batman’s enduring legacy, as well as what it was like at Pinewood Studios during filming and how Carl earned the moniker “Ballet Bat.” If you’re a fan of Batman and are curious about what it’s like during production, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

After listening to the episode, check out Carl’s other interviews on BatForce Radio and Superhero Stuff You Should Know. Each one provides different insights into what it was like being Batman’s movement double. Then, connect with Carl Newman on Instagram at balletbat1989 and balletbat_collective1989.

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Overview: In Batman: One Bad Day: Clayface #1, Clayface assumes a new persona and struggles to make it as an actor in Los Angeles.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Batman: One Bad Day: Clayface #1 begins at the apartment of Clayface (Basil Karlo) as he transforms from a mud puddle into a new human form in the mirror.

At the restaurant where Clay (Clayface’s new persona) works, he submerges himself in a crowd of executives and young performers dying to break into Hollywood. He helps where he can, reading the script of a coworker and auditions. On the way to an audition that a friend is also up for, he coaches this friend, telling him that if the friend can’t find the pain deep down, fake it.

All throughout, Clay has been practicing lines for his own audition, replaying them repeatedly. They’re about being a monster, about bringing pain and hurt to Gotham, yet about needing love.

The casting director calls to stop. She tells Clay that she senses the tragedy deep within him. When she asks if he’s from Gotham, he tells her that he is and it was a painful time in his life. The casting director then asks if Clay can pep it up because he’s auditioning for a love story, after all.

Clay pushes back, reminding the director that this character actually killed people and that there’s blood on his hands. When the director tells Clay they’re looking for a more quirky performance, Clay pushes back even harder. This move prompts the casting director to tell him that they’re good. He’s no longer needed.

Later, Clay laments the loss of the part to his friend, who also auditioned for the same role. He tells his friend that they don’t get the inner complexities of acting or the character, accusing the director of wanting something watered down for the masses. Midway through their conversation, Clay’s friend gets a call. It turns out this friend got the part, in large part due to his comedic chops and the advice he used from Clay.

Clay can no longer hold it in. He transforms into Clayface and kills his friend, stuffing the body in the trunk of a car and taking the form of the now-deceased man.

Clay, now going by the name Corey, arrives on set half an hour late. He’s rushed into makeup and then gets to the stage, where he’s acting out the monologue he just auditioned for. It’s for a movie called “The Killing Joke,” and while he delivers his speech, Corey holds the red hood mask that Joker wore in the now-iconic graphic novel.

The director calls cut and tells Corey that he’s not being relatable. When Corey argues that he found the true heartbreak of the character, the director tells him that the character is a killer but also a comedian. When Corey pushes back yet again about how everyone can relate to the sadness of it all, the director cuts the day short and says that he has to make a phone call.

In his trailer, Corey slips into his Clayface form. The casting director arrives, and Clayface resumes his Corey persona. She’s here to berate Corey for fighting with the director, telling him in no uncertain terms that there’s a hierarchy to sets, a pecking order, and Corey apparently doesn’t know his place.

Clayface consumes the casting director, killing her and assuming her form. Then he walks onto the set and goes through the crew, killing each one. When the director shows up, Clayface tells him he’s happy the director was last. Clayface kills the director, a man by the name of Max Taylor, and assumes his form.

Harry, the one funding the movie, calls Max and tells him that there’s bad news. Max (Clayface) meets with Harry only to find out that the movie is being canceled. When Max tells Harry that movies are art and that he has a vision, Harry tells Max that movies are depreciating products. They are a bad investment. Harry goes on a monologue, commodifying movies as common trash filled with the basic denominators most moviegoers love. Because there’s no franchise potential baked into Max’s movie, Harry’s canceling it.

Clayface brutally kills Harry and takes his place. As Harry, Clayface arranges a massive party at the producer’s mansion. He invites two VIPs, both of whom are coworkers from his days as Clay at the restaurant.

When his friends arrive, Clayface assumes the form of Clay. He makes a move on the one who was writing the script, a woman by the name of Kat. She’s taken aback, confused, and bewildered by the world Clay now finds himself in. She reveals he’s being so kind to her, but she feels a call to return home, a pull telling her she won’t make it.

As Batman: One Bad Day: Clayface #1 continues at the party, Clay meets Bruce Wayne, who has arrived to meet with Harry Silverman, the producer. Bruce stands before a giant poster of The Gray Ghost, a movie that’s being rebooted under Harry’s watch. Clay and Bruce chat and Bruce reveals that The Gray Ghost serials were a huge inspiration for him (which is definitely a call-out to the “Beware The Gray Ghost” episode of Batman: The Animated Series). When Bruce jokes about making a Batman movie next, Clayface suddenly has flashbacks and leaves.

Clay runs to the bathroom before fully breaking and transforming into Clayface. He remembers all the things said to him by the actors and people he killed. His Clayface persona reminds him that he’s trash.

Clay pulls himself together and rejoins his friends. They talk about how they are all strays together. When Kat asks where Corey is, Clay tells her he called Corey, but Corey didn’t pick up. He then reveals to them that his real name is Basil Karlo. It takes Kat a second, but she realizes that Clay is Clayface. She then puts together that Corey disappeared after riding to an audition with Clay. Clay keeps making excuses for Corey, but Kat and their other friend aren’t buying it. Clayface breaks, demanding to know why he isn’t good enough for them.

There’s a scream, and Clayface consumes both of his friends. As the other partygoers look over, Clay has taken the form of Harry Silverman and thanks the guests for coming out. Harry asks them to leave.

Just then, his two friends burst out. Kat calls the police, and sirens can be heard approaching the mansion. Clayface hulks out, telling everyone that he deserves this, that it’s his turn.

The rain, which never comes to LA, arrives. Batman sits perched atop the mansion. Clayface spots The Dark Knight and flees. He runs down the hills and through the trees, yelling, “Why did you have to bring the rain?!” When he stops running, Clayface tells Batman that all the people out here smile, but they’re fake. They take from your veins. They’re monsters, just like him. In truth, Clayface belongs here.

Batman tells Basil Karlo that he killed nine people in one day. The two fight, with Batman reciting the names of all of the victims. Batman pulls out some device that sucks Clayface into it like a ghost trap from Ghostbusters. He tells Clayface that the people killed had their stories, but Clayface is just acting.

At Arkham Asylum, Clayface once more acts out the scene from his audition, taking the form of each victim. As the victims look at Clay’s face, he confesses that he’s still working on the audition, asking for notes, any notes at all.

Analysis: Batman: One Bad Day: Clayface #1 is both a solid Clayface thriller and character study, as well as a very meta-commentary about the art of creation and making it out in Hollywood. Using the body-morphing character of Clayface as a literal vehicle for the phoniness of Hollywood, writers Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing and artist Xermanico tell a heartbreaking tale of how the creative process is crushed and torn apart within the mechanics of a money-printing studio system. Potshots are taken at the hyper-focus on franchises in the modern era, and there is at least one jab at canceling a movie, which can’t help but make readers wonder if it’s in any way a reference to Warner Bros. Discovery’s cancellation of Batgirl. More importantly, the creative team manages to weave a frighteningly futile tale of Clayface’s attempts to remake himself. Instead of submerging himself into the studio system, Basil Karlo bends others to his will, murdering those who stand in the way of his grand vision.

There’s no clear indication of what the vision actually is. Readers are clued in on the disagreements between Clayface and the directors over the tone of the character in a movie adaptation of “The Killing Joke,” but beyond these disagreements, it’s not like Clayface has a finished product in mind. The story focuses more on Clayface propelling himself up the studio food chain, apparently all within the span of “one bad day,” which is easily the hardest part of the story to digest.

Tonally, however, Batman: One Bad Day: Clayface #1 is magnificent. It’s so full of pathos and pain. Xermanico’s art is equally parts terrifying and absolutely depressing. There’s so much sadness in Clay’s eyes from start to finish, a sadness that glosses over in Clayface’s eyes as well. The way Clay’s friends look at him when he offers them kindness is beautiful and tragic, as readers know right out of the gate that Clay will take so much more from them.

There are many haunting images here in Batman: One Bad Day: Clayface #1, from the opening sequence of Clayface’s apartment to his devouring of the people around him. Yet, the most haunting images of all might very well be the eyes. They’re so sad and full of tragedy.

Letterer Tom Napolitano deserves heaps of praise for this issue. The tone and mood is set by the letters for Clayface’s voice, warping nearly as much as Clayface’s body. The harsher the inner self-talk Clayface delivers to himself, Napolitano echoes in the word bubbles. There’s also a script motif throughout, which really sets the stage for the drama readers are treated to.

Overall, the writing, art, and lettering work in sync to create a gripping read that speaks to a multitude of ideas about Clayface but about the creative process as well.

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Overview: After the death of Bruce Wayne at the hands of the city of Gotham, Terry must take up the case to avenge his mentor in Batman Beyond: Neo-Year.

Editor’s Note: This collected edition includes all six issues of the miniseries Batman Beyond: Neo-Year, which had its first issue released in April 2022 and the final issue released in September 2022. This review focuses on the story as a whole rather than the individual issues that made up the limited series.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Batman Beyond: Neo-Year begins with Batman, Terry McGinnis, speaking to a dead Bruce Wayne, giving him the statistics of the crime rates of Gotham since his death. Despite nonstop attention from Terry, the city is becoming worse and worse by the month. The new head of Wayne Enterprises, Donovan Lumos, known as the Holographic Man, is the front man for all the technical upgrades to the city, making being discrete even more of a problem. It doesn’t take long for Terry to hypothesize who is really behind the increased crime and death of Bruce: The Living Gotham.

Having zero proof the city is alive, he goes to Commissioner Barbara Gordon to give proof of Lumos’s corruption, leaving out the part about Gotham being alive. She still insists on retiring and letting the city eat itself. This conversation may breed a new ally though, a young go-getter cop, Beam Boonma.

The first issue ends with our first encounter with the muscle behind the city. Terry is investigating a possible drug smuggling ring moving through Wayne boat shipments when he is attacked by a long white-haired masked man with a huge rectangular sword. With nothing in the Bat computer on this new foe, Terry quickly realizes he is over his head and tries to flee. His efforts fail, and we end with the only Batman remaining under a pile of rubble.

Terry regroups, knowing he no longer owns the night and creates a disguise from parts from his depleting bat suit resources to try to become truly invisible to the city. His investigation leads him to Gestalt, a three-bodied machine. Gestalt had found a way to hide from the city as well; it was to merge together the resources of three to make one, and where Terry first thought he had come across another villain, he finds his first true ally.

Finally getting somewhere in his quest against the city with the emergence of Gestalt, Terry attends former Commissioner Gordon’s retirement party, being thrown by none other than Mr. Lumos. The city and Lumos begin to take more control. In Lumos’s speech to Barbara, he announces that Wayne Enterprises has taken full financial responsibility for the GCPD. A move that only the mayor, who has unfortunately been missing for thirty-two hours, can enact. Terry uses this opportunity to introduce himself to Beam Boonma, who leads him to where the mayor may be located.

Led to a trap by the city, her sword is waiting for Batman, and the fight for his life ensues. A cut scene reveals more about the city, showing us the death of an older homeless man as the city explains how it is timed with the birth rates at the hospital, a death for every birth.

The battle continues in Batman Beyond: Neo-Year through the city ending with Batman seemingly getting the upper hand on the sword. Gotham is already one step ahead, as we come to find that the Sword of Gotham is only the old homeless man hiding behind a holographic shield. Injured in the battle, Terry heads to Detective Boonma’s for help. The city has other plans, turning the detective into her next sword, and instead of receiving help, Terry must continue to fight. Getting the upper hand again, Terry can break Detective Boonma from the holographic control, and they retreat to the Batcave underneath a burnt-down Wayne Manor to regroup again.

Detective Boonma is not just injured but still under the control of Lumos and the city. Gestalt finds a solution, but not one they are confident will work. They must distract the city long enough for Gestalt to upload a virus. They argue about how to proceed with Detective Boonma released from full control by the city but is still in some coma. Gestalt wants to continue to hide, continue to live under the radar, and allow the city to do what it wants. Terry will not have it and eventually convinces Gestalt, and they get to work.

One hundred days pass with them underground, hiding and preparing. The good news is that the plan to wake Detective Boonma has worked, and she wakes unharmed. The preparations to go after Lumos and the city continue as Gestalt completes Terry’s new upgraded suit as well. The plan is coming together.

The last issue of the Batman Beyond: Neo-Year miniseries starts with Gotham uneasy in her search for Batman. She is fearful that she can no longer see him. She knows he is coming. On New Year’s, the city plans to turn all of the people of Gotham into versions of her sword, releasing us from the choices of free will. Terry uses this to gather his team: Gestalt, Detective Boonma, former Commissioner Gordon, and even the Jokerz are enlisted to help.

The assault starts off perfectly; Terry corners a fleeing Lumos. Terry threatens him to turn the city off, but Lumos has no idea what Terry is saying. He explains, hoping this will turn Lumos into another ally, but Batman is wrong. Lumos, now knowing the full extent of what he has helped create, gladly accepts the city of Gotham and becomes her ultimate sword. Now knowing exactly where the city is, Terry flees.

Gotham, now working through Lumos, takes off after Terry. He leads them toward the Jokerz, where they release all the firepower they have. In the explosions, Gestalt uses this time to force the upload. It is successful; the AI known as the city of Gotham is trapped. Terry grabs a falling Lumos and touches him to the ground. Finally, ending the Neo-Year.

It all wraps up with Barbara and Gestalt clearing out the Batcave. Terry and Boonma are out on the town, ready for the next story to start.

Analysis: Batman Beyond: Neo-Year is a solid comic book miniseries. The story flows well over the six issues; I was never bored or overwhelmed with constant action or lack thereof. There are no major underlying themes the authors are trying to convey; Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing quickly get right into who is to blame for Bruce Wayne’s death, making the main structure of the story very easy to follow. It was very easy to pull out an issue and pop right into the story wherever I left off. It is very approachable and a good series for any beginner to jump into the comic world. The art is very loud; a lot of bright neon colors, which makes for good contrast in the fight scenes resulting in the action being very readable. Max Dunbar does solid work: the colors pop, a touch bright, but the art does the story justice.

From the outside, I really enjoyed the story. Once I started to get into it, I did start finding problems. I would have liked Terry to sit in the mystery of who killed Bruce for a little longer. The book begins with a phantom narrator. Not even a page later, Terry takes over the narration and tells us he KNOWS it was Gotham that killed Bruce. It would have been nice to see him do some detective work to figure that out. I thought all the middle issues were great. I blew through issues #2-5 in a single sitting. This is where Terry does his version of detective work, gathering his crew and then hiding and preparing. From his encounter with Gestalt to putting ideas of being a hero back in Barbara’s head, Terry really is Batman in these issues, or what I perceive Batman should be.

The ending of Batman Beyond: Neo-Year was disappointing, rushed, and stood out in a bad way. Lumos, through the story, is portrayed by Terry as the evil mastermind that turned on the Living Gotham. At their final encounter, Terry is the one that reveals the Living Gotham to Lumos, explaining that he has been manipulated into doing the city’s bidding. I did not like the idea of the future tech genius being manipulated by the computer program he accidentally turned on. To add insult to injury, once Lumos finds out he’s been swindled by his own work; he snatches at the chance to be its next minion. Lumos went from an eccentric business tech wizard to an uneducated wimp grasping for power in less than a panel. It did not work.

I found the artwork very enjoyable until I would remember I’m supposed to be in Gotham. I understand that this is the future, I get that the name is Neo, but everything in Gotham looked too clean. Too bright. Not enough doom and gloom. There are some great panels with a brooding Terry with his hood up and head down in the rain or inside a dark club that is totally ruined by a bright neon pink or blue light in the panel giving it brevity, where none is needed or even wanted. That aside, there are some fantastic splash panels throughout the comic. The action scenes have great contrast allowing us to see everything going on in the story clearly. I would have liked to see more darkness in the overall aesthetic of the comic.

Editor’s Note: DC Comics provided TBU with copies of the original issues of this series as they were released but not of this new edition. You can find this collected edition and help support TBU in the process by purchasing this edition digitally either for Comixology through* Amazon or as a physical copy in a paperback form at Amazon or from Things from Another World.***

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 15, episode 3 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Review: Batman #132! Greater Gotham covers Batman: Legends of Gotham one-shot, Poison Ivy #9, The Joker: The Man Who Stopped Laughing #5, Batman and The Joker: The Deadly Duo #4, Gotham City: Year One #5, Lazarus Planet: Legends Reborn, Lazarus Planet: Next Evolution, Lazarus Planet: Dark Fate, Batman: Beyond the White Knight #8, Batgirls #15, I Am Batman #18, Batman Inc #5, DC Power: A Celebration, The Batman and Scooby-Doo Mysteries #5. Will Chip Zdarsky have Batman fall from the moon again? What surprising shipping specials will our hosts reveal? These questions and more will (or will not!) be answered if you listen. Send us your feedback at podcast@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics on Twitter, or our Discord server!

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Oh no…Steph overslept, and now the review is late, but it’s okay; I think she and Ian finally caught up on the latest chapters of Batman: Wayne Family Adventures! Let’s find out the latest with our review of Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #70-72.

Steph: Ian! Oh no, we’re late, we’re late, for a very important…review with Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #70-72!

Ian: Follow the white rabbit! (though I will say, no Mad Hatter in these comics yet!)

Steph: Phew! But we are starting up in the middle of an adventure! Barbara Gordon has let herself be kidnapped…Did the story go the way you thought it would?

Ian: I think so! When Babs is Oracle, I almost always am assuming her backups have backups! Plus, she’s a formidable fighter in her own right, whether here in WFA, or in the Titans tv show, or as a mentor to Cass and Steph when they are Batgirl – she’s one dashing daredoll! What about your expectations? Were you surprised at her plan?

Steph: Reading over our last review, I think I was expecting something a little more involved, probably because I still think like the main comics sometimes. Though this wasn’t bad at all. I think it was meant to showcase how smart Babs is and how she can use villains’ underestimation of her to her advantage. The baddy’s intention and actual crime were not the story’s point.

Ian: Something that is a bit funny is that Babs’ knowledge of her enemies reminds me a lot of the way Tom King writes the Riddler (see his recent One Bad Day one shot for an example). Perhaps the reason why some writers have tried to pair the two of them up (like in the Prelude to the Wedding issue by Tim Seeley many years ago).

Steph: I was a little sad that, because it was a “smart Babs” story, and we didn’t get tons of butt-kicking, and no Steph action at all, even though she’s there to “Save the Day.” Cass got to kick a door in, so that was cool. And I do love the art of these ladies, as always.

Ian: Indeed! I had real Batgirls flashbacks when reading Spoiler and Orphan bursting in to save Oracle!

Steph: Oh, I don’t know if I’d noticed before, but how do you feel about Commissioner Gordon’s red hair?

Ian: Well, I kinda got used to it in the New 52. I prefer him being a silver-haired man, but I can handle red.

Steph: I thought it was interesting. Do you think most of them are their New 52 selves?

Ian: I think most of them are sort of in a late n52/early Rebirth era, given their costumes and code names (Spoiler and Orphan are particularly indicative of that era, to me). Jim didn’t have grey hair again until Infinite Frontier’s Joker series by Tynion (a truly excellent series, by the by!).

Steph: Ah. But back to the story at hand, what did you think overall? I was a little disappointed in it as a story, but as a short webtoon about Babs, the art was great, and I think her showcase was pretty nice.

Ian: I think it’s great that Babs got her own story – is this the first time she’s gotten one? I guess she had a couple earlier, but this is her first two-parter for sure. I loved that it focused on her capability and the protectiveness of her father.

Steph: I did love that. And then came something completely different! Ep. 71 – High Heels – The Steph and Selina team up I didn’t know I wanted. However, the real question is…why did they have a pair of identical high-heels in Damian’s size immediately available?

Ian: You KNOW the Batcave is fully stocked with disguises for every single member of the Bat-Family! And I have to say, this episode gets my equivalent of a Starred Review from Publishers Weekly – my highest commendation! It taps into so many of my absolute favorite characters and relationships in the Bat-Family, particularly Steph and Damian, who haven’t had this hilarious, sparky, and delightful interaction much since the absolutely brilliant Batgirl #17. (though there was a hint of it in the great Flash #786 recently) What did you think?

Steph: I loved it. Selina is looking amazing as always, and I love that she’s an incorporated part of the family, not just “Bruce’s Thief Girlfriend with weird Armpit holes”

Ian: She’s a great mentor figure, and they really captured her voice, I think.

Steph: I wish she and Damian had more interaction, but I’ll take what I can get. And I love when whenever Damian gets humble pie. And, of course, any media with a Bat/Cat kiss gets an automatic 5/5 Fan Girl Giggle from me.

Ian: I knew that would work for you! I enjoyed it a ton as well, of course. I thought the art really stood out in this episode. Really great body language and expressions conveyed, and the hilarity of Steph and Damian falling on their backsides was perfect! And then the very end, with them working together with a determined expression, was very heartwarming

Steph: So good. Unfortunately, we’re going to end on another cliffhanger…Ep. 72 – Snowfall (Part 1).

Ian: Well, thankfully, it’s not a kidnapping cliffhanger! It’s a snowball fight cliffhanger!

Steph: I’ll be honest, I don’t see canon Bruce being this silly, but I really loved it, and I wished he would be. What did you think of everyone teaming up very seriously to gang up against their dad? I personally loved that their roles were very similar to what they might be in a real battle and that it was Tim taking charge of the kids.

Ian: I think it’s pretty realistic, as Batman is the most formidable opponent they will all face! Cass may have him beat hand to hand, but in terms of overall skills and strategy, Bruce is, well, he’s Batman! Plus, he trained them all, so he knows them super well and will anticipate their moves!

Steph: I love the picture Tim uses to show “Priority Alpha”… such a candid photo of Bruce. It’s great.

Ian: And Tim being the one to have the photo AND to say “Priority Alpha” as perhaps the second most strategic family member is such a great pair of character notes!

Steph: It’s great…CRC Payne should write the Tim Drake: Robin comic. I’d happily read that.

Ian: I think that would definitely be worth checking out, and I’d have a lot more enthusiasm for it than I do the current one…though what if it had Riley Rossmo on art still?

Steph: Meh. So, what’s going to happen? Are the Bat-chillins going to prevail against such a formidable foe?

Ian: I have to say, I’m always rooting for the Bat-kids, but I have my doubts! Especially since I feel that Bruce may have a trick or two up his sleeves! (and in his mittens!) What’s your money on?

Steph: I mean, I’d love to see Bruce get his humble pie, but I don’t know if he could call himself Batman if he lost in a snowball fight against them.

Ian: Exactly! And since it’s a snowball fight, I could see him going all out because “it’s for fun”

Steph: Oh yea. That was fun. Talk to you soon about more webtoons?

Ian: Absolutely!

Editor’s Note: You can find Batman: Wayne Family Adventures #70-72 and all other past chapters exclusively on the Webtoon platform. You can find all other reviews from the series here at The Batman Universe.

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Trigger Warning: discussions on sexual assault and rape After going through some vintage “quickies,” including Nightwing #90-93…

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Overview: In Batman #127, the Batman of Zur-En-Arrh and Robin battle Failsafe in Wayne Manor! In the…

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 14, episode 16 of The Batman Universe…

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Overview: Harley Quinn has never been more popular than right now with her hit animated show on…

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Overview: Batman ‘89 picks up where the Tim Burton Batman movies left off and sees Billy Dee…

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Guest-starring Dr. Jennifer Swartz-Levine! Power Girl and Diet Cola? Say what? Find out what THAT’S all about,…

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Overview: In Harley Quinn #21, Harley brings Task Force XX home, and the team helps Luke prepare for the…

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Overview: A low-stakes but very warm ending awaits our hero, but darker adventures await in Robin #17!…

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Overview: In Detective Comics #1063, Bruce Wayne continues to search for the link between the changes occurring…

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Overview: In Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #6, Batman and Superman travel back in time and help Robin solve…

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 14, episode 15 of The Batman Universe…

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Overview: In Harley Quinn #20, problems accelerate for Task Force XX and Luke Fox on the space…

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Overview: As Selina’s entanglements with Eiko and Valmont deepen, she prepares to leave Gotham again in Catwoman…

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Overview: In Batman: One Bad Day-The Riddler #1, Batman uncovers a dark truth about the Riddler in…

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Whoopsy – Ian and Steph blinked and suddenly remaining thirty-seven episodes of season 1 of Batman: Wayne…

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Overview: In Batgirls #9, summer is in full swing and the Batgirls are determined to enjoy theirs.…

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Movie producer, author, and the first-ever comic book professor Michael Uslan joins Scott from The Batman Universe…

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Overview: In Harley Quinn #19, if this spaceship’s a-rockin’, don’t come a-knockin’. Or Harley will take care…

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It was an interesting week in the Batman Universe. What started as a week the TBU Podcast…

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 14, episode 14 of The Batman Universe…

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Overview: In Robin #16, our hero faces betrayal and lies from the last place…wait, no, the first…

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I talk about my experience in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria before covering some vintage “quickies,” including Nightwing…

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 14 episode 13 of The Batman Universe…

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Pride mixed with BETRAYAL! I talk about my experience on the new Busch Gardens roller coaster “Pantheon”…

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Overview: In Detective Comics #1060, Batman continues to connect the Riddler’s reappearance in Gotham to the city’s…

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Steph (@SMozVO), Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life), and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 14 episode 9 of The Batman Universe…

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We’re back! After a little bit of a hiatus, Dane and Tim are back with a new…

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Overview: In Batman: Urban Legends #15, readers are treated to stories involving Batman, Zatanna, John Constantine, Plastic…

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Overview: In Batgirls #6, the Batgirls find themselves in a precarious situation, each at the mercy of…

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Earlier this year, it was revealed that after The Batman would release in theaters, a highly detailed…

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Overview: In Future State: Gotham #13, the Batman of the present and Batman of the past are…

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Warner Bros. has announced that the third and final season of Batwoman will be heading to home…

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Overview: In Task Force Z #7, stuck between a rock and hard place, such as potentially dying…

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Overview: In Batman #123, Batman and Robin track down the assassin who killed Ra’s al Ghul. Meanwhile,…

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Funko has revealed a new Pop vinyl figure featuring Harley Quinn as a wrestler with a championship…

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Overview: In Shadow War: Alpha #1, the titular Shadow War erupts, and the first casualty is Ra’s al Ghul!

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Shadow War: Alpha #1 begins in Nepal, the Demon Palace, a mystery person sneaks into an ailing Ra’s al Ghul’s company. Ra’s may be sick, but he still is ready for a fight; he picks up two swords and prepares to battle for his life.

The scene shifts to a training duel between Talia al Ghul and Robin. We see an aged Ra’s looking on as his daughter and grandson spar. Talia dodges a strike from her son, which surprises Damian. Talia just tells her boy that he talks too much and that is why he lost the Lazarus Tournament. Throughout this, we see that Ra’s is coughing blood. It looks like he is thinking about an exchange he had with his mother, Mother Soul. She told him that the Lazarus Pits are cursed, and Ra’s decides that it is time.

In Gotham, Lock-Up has rounded up some Blackgate inmates who are on probation. Batman swoops in and turns the tables on Lock-Up. Oracle contacts Batman; she wants him to see the news. She sends the feed to Batman.

It appears that Ra’s al Ghul is looking to turn himself into the D.E.O. Before doing so, he has a list of demands, including a wish to make a public statement before he is arrested at the Markovian Embassy in Washington DC.

Back in Nepal, Talia confronts her father about his demands, and Damian eavesdrops on the discussion. Ra’s has decided that his trying to change the world through violence has not worked; it has worsened the situation, bringing the world to the brink of an ecological disaster. He wants to try something new; they owe it to Damian, and he hopes that she will understand.

Batman is already outside the embassy and so is a heavy police presence. Oracle has got her eyes and ears on everything. They are preparing to stop whatever plan Ra’s is trying to enact. Batman also tells her that they need to make sure that the al Ghuls are safe as well and is soon interrupted by Damian across the roof in costume. Barbara overhears this exchange and tells Bruce to hug his son. Damian believes that they are trying to do the right thing, and once the al Ghuls are safe, Bruce and Damian can talk.

The proceedings are being watched by the Outsiders, Luthor, and the Justice League. Ra’s approaches the podium, identifies himself, and starts to speak as the crowds and press watch. Ra’s wants to work with the world to fix their problems, and he is willing to share with everyone all that he has learned. He is interrupted by a gunshot. Ra’s al Ghul has been shot in the head. Batman sees Deathstroke in an old costume with a sniper rifle. He fires more rounds, and Talia is hit in the shoulder. Damian races to his mother and grandfather while Batman goes to confront Deathstroke who has already thrown grenades. He plans to blow the body of Ra’s up and tells Batman as much while Damian fights to get to his mother and grandfather. Damian gets through and is running to his dead grandfather, but he is not in time. Batman swings in and grabs his son as the grenade next to Ra’s head explodes. Damian is horrified, but soon Batman is holding his grieving son. Damian, however, refuses to go home; he has to hunt down Deathstroke and bring him in dead or alive.

In Nepal, the bodyguards who have rescued the wounded Talia take her to a Lazarus Pit. She is not dead and tells them to stop. She orders them to get a doctor and to recall all the Shadows. They have to take down Deathstroke and his family for what he has done.

In Zandia, the headquarters of Deathstroke Inc., the Secret Society is in shock. Deadline and Prometheus are discussing why they think Deathstroke did this and that this is a disaster for the Society. They run into Deathstroke and Respawn. They all see the report, Deathstroke did not do the killing, someone else made it look like Deathstroke did the deed and that is not all. The Shadows make their strike on Deathstroke Inc. in retaliation for the death of the Demon Head. This event will be continued in Batman #122.

Analysis: For an introduction to this event, this is terrific. There is intrigue and mystery here in Shadow War: Alpha #1. Who is the real killer? What do the opening pages have to do with the story itself? In the beginning, it looked like Respawn has decided to attack Ra’s as he is preparing to do in the Deathstroke Inc. series, but it is not clear if this is a real scene, a dream, or the imagination of a character. The scene quickly changes to the sparring match between Talia and Damian.

This also shows character growth in Ra’s. He admits to his daughter that their old ways of doing things are not working and that he is willing to think outside the box. From his discussions with his mother and his own coughing attacks, Ra’s realizes that his time in this world may be coming to an end. He wants to leave a better world for Damian, and what they are doing now is not going to realize that goal.

This leads to who the mystery of “Deathstroke” is. One of the beliefs was that Respawn was Grant, Rose’s brother, but it was revealed that the boy is actually a mix of Slade Wilson’s DNA with Talia, making him in essence a third son to the mercenary and a half-brother to Damian Wayne. Is it possible that the fake Deathstroke could actually be Grant Wilson after all? That is only a guess. Whoever it is, he is good, he got through Oracle’s surveillance and placed a perfect shot to kill Ra’s at the podium.

The art is the standard superheroes style but drawn with a grittier style to match the subject matter herein Shadow War: Alpha #1. There really is not an area of humor, but there are some lulls before the action that elevates the style to keep it from becoming cartoony. Victor Bogdanovic, who I do not have much of a history reading, definitely went all out with his designs of Talia’s Shadows. The splash page showing them assembled is interesting. I studying the panel, the only character I recognize is possibly Cheshire and Frankenstein, but I am not sure if those are the right characters. It looks like an eclectic gathering of source refs, hitmen, monsters, and possibly some Joker wannabes. It does look like the white woman holding the flaming sword is a leader of some kind as she is seen in the last panel leading the Shadows against Deathstroke Inc.

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Critic reviews of films were once considered a thing that mattered when it came to movie audiences deciding on whether or not they would make the trip to see a movie. Now, there is a score associated with a tomato that may or may not do the same thing. But what did the critic reviews for The Batman do?

Years ago, critic reviews were a small group of newspaper journalists that reviewed films and gave star ratings or a number of thumbs up. As the dawn of the internet exploded, more and more people were able to become critics. What that meant was a flood of new reviews for films.

That can mean that a film that wouldn’t get a lot of publicity could have a chance to get a spotlight if more critics were seeing it and giving it a high rating. The issue is that for mainstream films, it has become a way for certain critics to stand out amongst their peers by criticizing films more than their peers.

The Batman films over the years have had this situation before when it comes to critic reviews. It is not something new. With the release of The Batman, what did the critics have to say about the film? Were there any reviews that seemed negative for the sake of being different? And in a world of reviews revolving around tomatoes, what happens when normal audience members share their thoughts on the film.

Join Dustin, Adil, and Scott as they discuss reviews for The Batman. The other topic of discussion for the episode involves the deleted Joker scene from the film that was released.

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After speaking about how I’m dragging myself out of the pit of despair, my brief thoughts on “The Batman,” and what it’s like to play Resident Evil 5, I look at two vintage “quickies” and review Batgirl #34-36 from 2003. In the second half of the episode, I look at some modern “quickies,” Nightwing #90, and Batgirls #4. “Shag’s Mac and Cheese of Comfort and Joy,” listener emails, and literature recommendations also appear in the episode.

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This article is part 2 of our new series that breaks down actors who have crossed the threshold between DC and Marvel and acted in both properties. If you are interested in the first installment, head over here. Otherwise, let’s dive into another cast of actors who have popped up in more than one of the comic book properties you know and love.

11. Christine Adams

Christine is a British/American actress/model who has acted in many British and American film and television projects, such as Doctor Who, Pushing Up Daisies, Nip/Tuck, Tron: Legacy, and many others.

DC – Batman Begins – Jessica, William Earle’s Secretary

If you don’t remember Christine’s role in Batman Begins (2005), then you need to rewatch it. She’s only in one scene, but the look of “OH CRAP” on her face when she realizes she’s being dismissive of BRUCE WAYNE is nothing short of memorable.

DC – Black Lightning – Lynn Pierce/Stewart

Christine returned to DC, this time for the Fox/CW’s Black Lightning series as a regular cast member, Jefferson Pierce’s ex-wife and a neuroscientist. She is a member of Black Lightning’s team and has/has had meta-powers. She is fiercely protective of her family, as well as a caring person.

Marvel – Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. – Agent Anne Weaver

In the show Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Christine plays the director of SHIELD’s Academy of Science and Technology.

12. Ciarán Hinds

Though recently in the spotlight due to his role in 2021’s Belfast, Ciarán Hinds is known to me as the kind and dignified fashion designer in Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day (2008). His calm and collective style makes him perfect for a gentleman, grandfather, or soft-spoken knight to sweep you off your feet.

DC – Justice League – Steppenwolf (Voice)

The big bad from Apokolips and uncle of Darkseid in DC’s The Justice League movies. Though he was 3D animated, Steppenwolf was voiced by Ciarán Hinds. However, there is enough voice modulation that it is very hard to hear him through it.

Marvel – Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance – Roarke/Mephistopheles

The creator of Ghost Rider, or the one who tricked him into becoming Ghost Rider, Ciarán played the character very creepily, with a bloody eye to up the creep factor, very chilling yet with the sophistication expected of the actor.

13. Cliff Robertson

Cliff was an actor of the days of black and white television, starting in the 40s and acting all the way until the early 00s. His big claim to fame was his 1968 Academy Award-winning role in the Charly.

DC – Batman (TV 1960s) – Shame

Shame was a recurring character in the show and was known as the Conniving Cowboy of Crime. His shtick was having cowboy cronies and associates, as well as dressing like a cowboy. I was delighted to find he had acted in this role because that meant I could add him to this list. Most of you will know him much better as…

Marvel – Spider-Man (2002) – Uncle Ben

“With great power comes great responsibility”…dying words of the sweetest guy known in comics. Though his character is not in the movie for very long, his words and his life follow Peter Parker everywhere he goes. We also can’t and won’t soon forget Uncle Ben.

14. Cobie Smulders

If you don’t know Cobie Smulders, then you most assuredly have heard of the show that is her claim to fame – How I Met Your Mother. The Canadian actress played the mysterious Robin that for many seasons was teased to be the mother in the name of the show.

DC – Smallville – Shannon Bell

Cobie was featured on season 4 of Smallville as a spurned ex-lover of Lex Luthor. This femme fatal goes a little off the deep end after Lex dumps her and ends up killing his exes and eventually coming after him.

Marvel – MCU – Maria Hill

However, Cobie has made her mark on the MCU by portraying Nick Fury’s ever-present right hand – Maria Hill. The former Deputy Director of S.H.I.E.L.D., she is a straight shooter who plays by the book, though has been known to do what she believes is right in spite of the rule book.

15. Colin Farrell

Colin Farrell is an Irish actor who came into my life as a handsome and foul-mouthed delight to watch. If you haven’t seen In Bruges (which also features Ciarán Hinds), you absolutely must. He has shown a lot of depth as an actor, with a wide range of films.

DC – The Batman – The Penguin

Given the number of prosthetics on Colin in the film, makes me wonder if there is something special about the actor that the casting director wanted, even if he didn’t fit the bill aesthetically. However, I am excited to see Colin in this role.

Marvel – Daredevil (Film 2003) – Bullseye

I’ll be honest, I’ve never seen Daredevil (2003), and based on reviews from the last eighteen years, I don’t intend to. However, if they were going to cast a bad-ass Irish man, they did right there, even if the film was terrible.

16. Colin Salmon

Colin is a British actor known as Charles Robinson the James Bond Franchise and James “One” Shade in the Resident Evil series and has acted in many other TV shows and movies.

DC#1 – Arrow – Walter Steele

One of Colin’s roles has included Walter Steele in the DC/CW show Arrow. He played Oliver’s assumed dead former step-father.

DC#2 – Krypton – General Zod

A little more recently Colin played the recurring character of General Zod in the Syfy series Krypton. He loves Krypton and is willing to do anything to save it from its imminent destruction.

Marvel – Punisher: War Zone – Paul Budiansky

Marvel’s 2008 panned reboot to the Punisher franchise starred Colin as Paul Budiansky, an FBI agent who wants revenge on the Punisher for him taking out his friend and partner. He is a really honest and decent guy trying to do the right thing.

17. Dave Bautista

Dave has been a WWE wrestler since 2002, going by his ring name – Batista. In 2006, he blessed the world and started acting in various film and TV projects.

DC – Smallville – Aldar

Aldar was a criminal who was banished to the Phantom Zone but accidentally let out by young Clark Kent. He feeds on bone marrow and is incredibly strong (duh!). He was featured on season six of the TV series.

Marvel – Guardians of the Galaxy- Drax

Of course, we all know Drax. The Kylosian warrior who takes everything literally. He has become a beloved part of the MCU, and we look forward to seeing him in the upcoming third installment of the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise.

18. David Dastmalchian

I don’t know much about David aside from his roles in comic book movies, but that being said…he is in A LOT of comic book movies, so I have seen him quite a bit. If this was a “just in DC projects” list, he would be one of the very few people on the list, and he would most likely win most DC appearances. He’s also known for roles in Denis Villeneuve’s films, such as Prisoners, Blade Runner 2049, and Dune.

DC#1 – The Dark Knight – Joker’s Thug

Originally when I made this list to find cross-over actors, I had deleted all the roles that seemed to be played by extras: EMTs, boy #1s, and thugs…and I realized I had made a big mistake. Aside from removing all the amazing cameos done by famous actors, there are some minor roles that really stand out – and Joker’s Thug from The Dark Knight is one of those roles. His haunting smile, his silence but manic little giggle…he has a very short but memorable part of the film.

DC#2 – Gotham – Dwight Pollard

Obviously inspired by his character in The Dark Knight, Dwight is a Joker fanatic who is part of the followers of Jerome Valeska – the character teased as the Joker in Gotham (he wasn’t). After Jerome loses his face, Dwight begins wearing it in a strange form of love and loyalty.

DC#3 – The Flash – Abra Kadabra

In CW’s The Flash, Abra Kadabra, or Philippe, plays the role of a recurring criminal/time traveler. He appears to be a man filled with a lot of pain and has still had enough humanity left to understand his actions are wrong.

DC#4 – The Suicide Squad – Polka-Dot Man

2021’s The Suicide Squad, the reboot (not a sequel) of 2016‘s Suicide Squad starred a lot of new villains that made their mark one way or the other. Polka-Dot Man was definitely one. This movie, and his character, in particular, were very traumatic for people with trypophobia (fear of clusters of holes or bumps). However, he played a character of many layers…though most of those layers were issues with his mother.

Marvel – Ant-Man – Kurt

And finally, his role in Marvel. Kurt is a friend of Scott Lang, a cybercriminal, and eventually a business partner. Though a small character in the film, he is still part of what makes that franchise enjoyable.

19. Dichen Lachman

Dichen is a Tibetan/Australian actress and producer who has made her mark on such projects as Joss Whedon’s Dollhouse and the cyberpunk drama Altered Carbon.

DC – Supergirl – Roulette

Also known as Veronica Sinclair, Roulette is the head of an illegal mortal combat ring. After Supergirl shut her down, she continued to do naughty things by starting a human trafficking ring.

Marvel – Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. – Jiaying

Still a villain in Marvel, she plays a slightly more complex and layered character, having her humanity stripped from her over time. Though not immortal, Jiaying is able to drain willing people’s lifeforce and take it for herself to prolong her life.

20. Djimon Hounsou

Though his name doesn’t roll off the tongue, Djimon has been making a name for himself for a very long time. One of his very early films was starring in Amistad as Cinque. He has a very commanding presence, yet has a very charming and disarming smile…and boy does he love DC films.

DC#1 – Aquaman – King Ricou

You may not have recognized him in this role as he was mostly in makeup and CG. Ricou is the ruler of the Fishermen Kingdom who refuses to join Orm. He is a peaceful man and is too quickly killed by Orm.

DC#2 – Constantine – Papa Midnite

A former Hell-fighting witch doctor and now nightclub owner, Papa Midnite helps Constantine see a vision by letting him sit in his electric chair. His nightclub is a neutral zone for members of Heaven and Hell to congregate.

DC#3 – Shazam! – Wizard (Mamaragan)

And lastly, on the DC list, the Wizard is a wise wizard who tests people to see if they can deny the seven deadly sins, therefore proving themselves worthy of the power of Shazam! He had tremendous power and had a very long lifespan.

Marvel – MCU – Korath

His Marvel appearance is as Korath the Pursuer, who was a Kree Starforce member, but then left to become Ronan the Accuser’s right-hand man. He has appeared in Captain Marvel and Guardians of the Galaxy.

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Queen Studios has released details for their latest collectible figure which features the Joker from The Dark Knight. The one-sixth scale figure measures about fourteen inches tall and features a cell backdrop. There are three different tiers available for this figure. A standard edition- a single standing figure, a premium edition with a sitting and standing figure with sculpted hair, and a deluxe edition with the sitting and standing figures with rooted hair. It also features multiple left and right hands, weapons, and accessories. The standard edition is priced at $310, the premium edition is priced at $590, and the deluxe edition is priced at $999. Queen Studios does not have a release date listed at the moment, but if you are located in mainland China, you can preorder it now.

Queen Studios The Dark Knight 1;6 Scale Joker Collectible Figure

About the Character: With the help of Lieutenant Jim Gordon and District Attorney Harvey Dent, Batman keeps a tight lid on crime in Gotham. That is until a vile young criminal calling himself the Joker suddenly throws the City into chaos. This new criminal mastermind gives Batman his biggest psychological and physical test yet as the caped Crusader begins to tread a fine line between heroism and vigilantism.

About the Figure: Queen Studios’ InArt The Joker 1/6 scale figure is taken from The Dark Knight. Thanks to magnetic joints and realistic prop accessories, you can pose The Joker to recreate some of your favorite scenes from the movie. These switch-out props make this 1/6 scale figure much more customizable than Queen Studios’ previous collectibles. The InArt team has chosen two iconic scenes for this sixth scale The Joker figure. One scene captures the Clown Prince of Crime sitting in his jail cell. While the other captures the character as he interrupts the mobsters with his ultimatum.

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Overview: In Harley Quinn #13, a new arc begins as Harley Quinn is framed(?!) for mass homicide by a new villain while some characters from her past emerge as well.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Harley Quinn #13 begins in Gotham City at the Hungry Heart Bar & Grill, as Frankie Peterson is celebrating his birthday. Peterson is formerly affiliated with the Falcone family, and, we are told by the narrator, has killed eight people in the last week alone. Someone delivers a cake out of which a figure dressed as Harley emerges and starts blasting away with two handguns. The Harley-figure methodically cuts down the entire crew, finishing off a helpless Frankie with an ice cream scoop. Verdict has found them all guilty.

Elsewhere, our hero is on roller skates awaiting a delivery truck carrying unused food products from some of Gotham’s finest restaurants. The truck rushes off with Harley following. She apprehends the driver and assures him that she is merely commandeering his truck in her best Robin Hood impression. She drives off to meet Kevin and begin distribution (with an assist from Waffle the wonder canine!).

Back at the homicide scene, a new police officer named Jaylin Shaw is noisily vomiting while plainclothes detective “Issac” is trying to help. An investigator provides the security camera recording, and the Gotham Police Department set off to apprehend Harley.

Harley and Kevin arrive at her apartment. It is an absolute state, and Kevin is concerned the mess may have something to do with her breakup with Poison Ivy. Harley confesses that she misses Ivy. Their hug is interrupted by the sound of black helicopters in the sky. Officer Show arrests Harley, and she is headed to Blackgate, where a number of its residents eagerly await her.

Analysis: Harley Quinn # 13 clearly is a transitional issue connecting the previous Keepsake/Dr. Hugo arc to a new story featuring a new rogue known as Verdict. I am hopeful about this new arc. While I love what writer Stephanie Phillips is doing with the book, at times Harley’s zaniness and wild energy seem to shade the representation of the rogues a bit too much. As Phillips herself makes plain early on in the run, Keepsake was never worthy of Harley’s talents and indeed was easily bested on multiple occasions (before being unceremoniously assassinated by Dr. Hugo). Verdict seems both more effective and more sadistic, which may permit Phillips to explore some of the darker corners of Harley’s psyche and (more importantly) her past.

Harley’s redemption narrative is well-plotted and well-sequenced thus far, but it is hard to see how Harley can ever fully outrun the demons in her past. Indeed, Mico Suayan and Rex Lokus’ ratio variant covers highlight this point in an astonishing portrayal. In the classic triangular orientation, we see a dangling Harley grinning in a full Harlequin costume. The villainous color tones of red, black, green, and purple are all present. We sense Joker even before the eye travels to the top vertice, which features a portrait (within a portrait, as it were) of a leering Joker in the horror style of Guillem March. At the foot of her armchair are her trusty mallet and either Bud or Lou wearing a wild expression.

Like many of the most compelling figures in the Batman Universe, the deep darkness in Harley’s past remains a critical part of her efforts to be and do good. Indeed, this is a core part of the Batman narrative in general.

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Overview: In Catwoman #41, Catwoman allies with League of Assassins member Onyx as the complications in her war against the mob grow deeper.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Catwoman #41 begins, Don Tomasso dresses down his son Dario and Dario’s secret lover/right-hand man Noah for the death of two of his men (at Valmont’s hands from the last issue). When Dario throws out the murder of Kristi, one of the Don’s mistresses, killed at the Don’s orders to keep Catwoman in line, Tomasso rages at him with misogynistic threats. Dario leaves, while Noah continues to cement his position as a replacement son.

Valmont and Catwoman wait for Valmont’s associate, Flamingo, to pick up the bodies of Tomasso’s men. Disgusted at Valmont partnering with a cannibal like Flamingo, Catwoman swings away, watching from afar as Onyx, from the League of Assassins, attacks. She intervenes to save Valmont’s life and walks away to parlay with Onyx in Little Tokyo. They dance around each other’s missions and Onyx’s distrust of Selina (who can blame Onyx, though her dislike of murderers seems more than a bit rich from an assassin). Selina leads Onyx to the rooftops next to the Trixie mob hotel for side chicks, where they see Dario planting a bomb. Selina stops him from killing his father and Black Mask and turns him to instead attacking the Sullivan mob. Onyx and Catwoman break the hands of Sullivan’s best boxers, hurting him financially. Dario attacks the guards outside of Sullivan’s gym, exposing his alliance with Catwoman as the three escape together.

Black Mask meets with Tomasso, Eiko Hasigawa, Dragos Ibanescu, and Sullivan, and tensions run high because of Catwoman’s attack on Sullivan. Black Mask bullies the group to put out a hit on Catwoman, with only Eiko disagreeing, saying she does not fear the Cat.

At Catwoman’s apartment in the Trixie, Dario, Onyx, and Selina eat sushi. Onyx leaves, warning Selina that Valmont is no good. Dario takes a nap on Catwoman’s couch (since she’s hiding her identity from him still, even though he passed her test), and she tries to encourage him that life as the gay son of a homophobic mobster can be longer than he thinks, a touching moment. However, while Dario sleeps, Eiko’s Yakuza sneak in.

Analysis: Tini Howard continues her new run on Catwoman by once again introducing a blast from the past – Onyx, whose last major appearance was the ill-executed debacle of a Batman event called “War Games.” Though Batman’s respect for Onyx indicates that she has integrity and some moral strength, it’s still a bit off to have a literal assassin complaining about Valmont and Flamingo being murderers. The somewhat stereotypical dialogue Howard writes for Onyx also doesn’t quite help, though she’s certainly got miles more character and interest in Catwoman #41 than Eiko’s generated in the previous three. Selina comparing Onyx to Bruce as a romantic interest continues Howard’s depiction of Catwoman as a creature of unchecked, undisciplined impulse – a frustrating impression only enhanced by the way Howard writes Catwoman agonizing about spending time with Valmont. In general, Howard’s Selina continues to emerge as feckless, passionate but without much forethought, and too often even composure, as Valmont and Onyx both cause her to completely lose her cool.

Nico Leon’s rendering of Selina’s facial expressions and shapes are a bit overly loosely handled – once again giving the feeling of an artist not quite ready for a full solo run on one of DC’s highest-profile characters. Though to be fair, both of the artists for Genevieve Valentine’s run occasionally employed less-than-tight pencils – perhaps for effect, but more often giving the impression of inconsistency and a bit of haste. Veronica Gandini’s colors do a whole lot of lifting, drenching the book in shadow and silhouette that makes it more effective than the simple pencils would on their own. Some awkward computer-generated buildings and other props (like Dario’s bomb) give the sense of a book that wants to have a bit more style than it can pull off just yet. Overall, the combination of art and writing gives the reader a package of striking potential but with many details that keep holding it back from being a fully enjoyable and competent read. Hopefully, the intrusion of the strikingly colorful Yakuza into Catwoman’s apartment on the final page will finally develop Eiko back into the complex, compelling character Valentine created in 2014.

Jeff Dekal provides a striking, if punky attitude (and personally extremely off-putting) tongue-sticking-out Catwoman facing a powerful and stern Onyx, using his shiny, digital painting style. Tula Lotay provides a traditionally posed Catwoman leaning back, relaxed, and arched back against a red background – very dramatic coloring, surrounded by three black cats for the cardstock variant. Jenny Frison ties into The Batman movie with a Zoe Kravitz-style stocking mask with ears, rendered in her typical vivid purple. Sozomaika paints the 1:25 ratio variant for Catwoman #41 with Catwoman holding a hoop against a black background – a bit simplistic compared to the other covers and surprising given that it’s an incentive variant. Dani’s International Women’s Day variant shows us a dramatic Catwoman standing on a glass roof, painted from below, with her feet cracking through the “glass ceiling” (though in reverse, presenting an odd symbolism if you think about it). Interestingly, Greg Horn provides two art exclusive variants, both featuring an Anne Hathaway-inspired Catwoman, one in front of the Bat-signal, one clinging seductively to a shadowy Batman, holding pearls behind her back. One thing’s for sure: DC has only increased the number of covers it’s using as marketing. While many of them have a lot of artistic merit, it’s disappointing seeing this tactic deployed so relentlessly.

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Overview: In Detective Comics #1057, the penultimate issue of Shadows of the Bat finds the Bat-Family facing off against the Scarecrow one final time. In our backup, the Boy comes full circle and lays one final trap for those who changed his life forever.

Story #1: “The Tower” Part 11 by writer Mariko Tamaki and artist Amancay Nahuelpan

Synopsis: Detective Comics #1057 starts with the public reacting to Batman’s return, as he coordinates with Oracle and the rest of the Bat-Family on taking back control of Arkham Tower. Batman begins by taking out the Party Crashers. Huntress seems to have found Scarecrow and Ana Vulsion. They have Psycho Pirate and the mayor’s wife, Koyuki Nakano. Huntress is afraid one or both of them are about to be killed. Elsewhere, Tim and Steph are leading the freed staff members to safety when they’re accosted by members of the Bane-Lito gang. One shoots an electrical weapon, hitting Steph, who jumps to protect everyone from the blast. Tim springs into action, tearing through the gang before Batwoman joins in for the assist. In the pharmacy, there are more Party Crashers, looking to take the stash for themselves. The pharmacy is being guarded by Harley Quinn and a few staff members. One of the crashers shoots a fear toxin bomb at them. They’re saved, however, by Lady Clayface, who sweeps in and absorbs all of the toxin. She disappears after saving the trio.

As Batman clears another floor of the Bane-Litos, he calls in for a status report, trying to find the whereabouts of the Scarecrow. Huntress reports in that he’s in the basement along with Ana Vulsion and the captured Psycho Pirate and Koyuki Nakano. Scarecrow has Pirate’s Medusa Mask. Batman orders everyone to converge. Scarecrow cannot leave the tower with the Medusa Mask.

In the basement of the tower, Scarecrow is gone, leaving the hostages alone with Ana Vulsion. She has a bone to pick with Psycho Pirate. He tried to control her, much like the other men tried to control her. She won’t tolerate men controlling her ever again. As she goes in for the kill, she’s stopped by Huntress. The two foes battle. As they fight, Koyuki frees herself and awakens Psycho Pirate. She implores him to help Huntress neutralize Ana Vulsion. Pirate doesn’t feel he can. He no longer has his mask and is still too weak from holding the patients of the tower in his trance. She urges him to try. It’s time to stop running from their fears.

On the roof, Batman and the rest of the Bat-Family (sans Steph) confront Scarecrow. He’s not going down without a fight. He releases fear toxin on them. As they fight the effects of the toxin, he puts on the Medusa Mask. As the mask is in place, he’s accosted by Psycho Pirate, who is assisted to the roof by Koyuki and Huntress. The distraction is enough for Cass to come and kick the Medusa Mask from Scarecrow’s face. There’s a scramble for the mask as more Bane-Litos arrive, guns blazing. Batman is able to stop Scarecrow. However, who can get to the Medusa Mask…?

It’s Day 67 of the Arkham Tower project and Koyuki Nakano is in a therapy session with Dr. Chase Meridian. They’re discussing Koyuki’s experience that night. As Psycho Pirate lay unconscious, she saw the Medusa Mask at her feet. She was finally ready to face her fears. She would begin by putting on the Medusa Mask herself.

Analysis: I can’t express how much I enjoyed this part of Shadows of the Bat in Detective Comics #1057. It was filled with a lot of action and some decent surprises. Lady Clayface hasn’t been seen since an earlier part of the event as a patient/inmate in the tower. Yet, she’s in a hero’s role in this chapter, saving Harley and others from fear toxin. I’m still not certain how she survived the event of Tamaki’s first arc, which showed her in the form of Sarah Worth before dissolving in Detective Comics #1038. It is good to see, however, that she is still in a hero’s role as she was in the pages of Gotham City Monsters. From an action standpoint, there was a lot. In fact, I was hoping there would be more, particularly in the final (hopefully final) battle between Batman and Scarecrow. This didn’t happen, and considering how the issue ended, it’s possible we won’t get much fighting in the finale.

Let’s discuss the ending. Koyuki Nakano puts on Psycho Pirate’s Medusa Mask. What can this lead us to in the finale? We know that Mrs. Nakano has developed a connection with Pirate after they have shared thoughts with each other. Does she use the mask against the Family, who are clearly in her sights, to allow Pirate to get away. Does she extract a bit of revenge on Scarecrow? One would hope that Tamaki delivers a swerve in the finale and provides a decent ending. What I hope we don’t get is a lot of off-paneling that leaves the reader guessing as to what has happened. DC is known for doing something like this in the past. I hope it doesn’t happen again, as it would ruin what has been a truly remarkable event.

For some reason, I have enjoyed Amancay Nahuelpan’s art with each part of Shadows that he has drawn. And I’m not saying this because of the colors from Jordie Bellaire (and let me be clear, I love Jordie Bellaire’s colors). However, the more I see the pencil work and inks from Nahuelpan, the more I become a fan. I would have no problem seeing him get more work on any of the Bat-Books on a regular basis.

Story #2: “House of Gotham” Part 11 by writer Matthew Rosenberg and artist Fernando Blanco

Synopsis: The backup in Detective Comics #1057 starts on the outskirts of Gotham at the ruined site of the Martha Wayne Home for Boys, a familiar figure in purple arrives answering an invitation. It’s dark at the site. It seems there’s no one there… or is there?

Days later, at the offices of Gotham Light and Power, Batman is investigating an alarm. As he watches security footage, he recognizes a familiar figure, seemingly in purple, walking with an employee. Batman wants to know more about this individual. The next day, high above Gotham Heights, Batman meets Red Hood, who has been keeping an eye on the apartment of Elliot Maslow, the employee from last night. Elliot arrived at a home with a guest. Batman fears the worst, but Red Hood reports that everything is fine. He also tells Batman that he knows Elliot from his days at Ma Gunn’s Crime School. He’s not sure Batman is going to find what he’s looking for.

Minutes later, Batman crashes through Maslow’s window. He promises to protect the man and the family if Maslow just tells him what happened and to give the whereabouts of his guest. Elliot is confused about what Batman is talking about. Batman demands to know why he’s helping the Joker. Maslow tells Batman he’s not protecting the Joker. He’s surprised that Batman doesn’t remember.

Later that night, Batman, Nightwing, Red Hood, and Robin walk through the North Gotham water main, looking for the whereabouts of the Joker. They split up to take a different sewer tunnel. Something doesn’t feel right. As they go deeper, something jams their comms, and they find themselves alone. Killer Croc attacks Red Hood. Clayface goes after Nightwing. Scarecrow takes out Robin with fear toxin. Batman realizes it’s a trap, but it’s too late.

The water rushes in.

Analysis: I truly enjoyed how this chapter in Detective Comics #1057 ended. It’s a climactic scene that will lead us to the finale. Unfortunately, this is kind of where the enjoyment ends. We’re no longer in No Man’s Land and have delved further into Batman’s mythos and yet, the world’s greatest detective seems to be everything but. Could he not put two and two together that the situation was something other than the Joker, particularly after being warned by both Red Hood AND Elliot (yes, that Elliot) Maslow. This chapter seemed very off. However, the ending makes the final chapter seem very promising in bringing things to an end AND revealing the Boy’s true identity.

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Steph (@SmozVO), Ian (@ibmmiller), and Theo (@BatmanFan_4Life) bring you Season 14 episode 5 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Reviews: Detective Comics #1055 and #1056, and Batman #121! Greater Gotham covers Dark Knights of Steel #5, Batman: Killing Time #1, Arkham City: The Order of the World #6, Superman: Son of Kal-El #9 (part 2 of the Nightwing crossover), Batman: Urban Legends #13, Batgirls #4, I Am Batman #7, Future State: Gotham #11, The Joker #13, The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries #12. What are we doing in No Man’s Land? Why is the best comic a Scooby-Doo crossover? All these questions and more! Send us your feedback at podcast@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics, or on our Discord server!

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Overview: In Superman: Son of Kal-El #9, we see the conclusion to the World’s Finest Sons investigation into Luthor’s involvement in the murdered superheroes, which started in Nightwing #89.

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): Continuing where we last left off, Superman: Son of Kal-El #9 has Nightwing begin taking down subsidiary illegal businesses related to Lexcorp, all for the purpose of baiting the Rising. When the three superpowered killers appear, Superman (Jon Kent) arrives and easily holds them at bay. Knowing one of their members is about to be compromised, President Bendix activates a bomb in one of his men’s brains, blasting him into a spray of light in Jon’s own hands.

At the Kent household, Dick and Lois discuss Truth’s mutual goals for disseminating corruption alongside Dick’s use of his fortune. Dick thinks Lois would be the perfect figure to lead Truth into a more trusted reputation, rather than continue to hide in secrecy. Upstairs, Jon’s reeling from the battle earlier that day. Dick relays to him that the feelings of guilt aren’t unique to only him and that what they can do for each other is be there for one another. Jon tells Dick about his five-year imprisonment on the Phantom Earth and confesses that he wished Dick were there to save him like he had years before when Jon was a boy. Dick offers Jon mentorship before Jay runs through the wall presenting released footage of the exploding Rising henchman in Jon’s arms from earlier. Lois agrees to join Truth to ride head on the story, and Dick once again promises Jon that he’ll no longer have to be alone.

Analysis: Continuing from Nightwing #89, this two-part crossover of Tom Taylor’s ongoing titles reads – plainly – like a Nightwing book.

Yes, Jon has the captioned narration, but I feel that the focus is on the guest star in a way that doesn’t differentiate from how the Blüdhaven hero is written in his monthly series. I’m trying not to lay this observation on too thick as heavy criticism, but Taylor clearly adores Dick Grayson. During the fight, even when Dick is out of the action, we focus on him falling and flying to safety. The key moment, Jon experiencing in slow motion the Rising member’s death, is rightfully kept in his head, but the rest of Superman: Son of Kal-El #9 reads almost as though Nightwing’s been out of action for a while and this is his big return. Except it’s not, which makes it feel like a Nightwing book.

I’m just working my way through the appropriate measurement of focus for a traditional team-up. When Robin (Tim Drake) appeared in Taylor’s third issue of the Nightwing run, the focus was on his interplay with Dick rather than showing him off. That was a clear nod to the early days of Chuck Dixon, so the context and intent is different. Here, Taylor’s main thematic interest is building another brotherly relationship between Dick and a younger hero. I can’t say it doesn’t work, especially with their “origin story” of meeting we saw in the last issue. I suppose my confusion is why this had to be a crossover and only a two-parter at that. Will Dick be in the next issue of Son of Kal-El? Will the murdered heroes plot be resolved in Superman SOK #10 or Nightwing #90? And are we going to see the Truth organization included more in Nightwing adventures as Dick continues his work to rehabilitate Bludhaven?

None of these questions are disqualifying the enjoyment of the issue. Bruno Redondo pulls double duty penciling this guest appearance, and at the moment he’s probably my favorite DC artist working in the biz today. That’s saying quite a lot, with the likes of Dan Mora, Gleb Melnikov, and especially Jorge Jiminez all vying for the title of rising stars. Redondo has such a command over facial expressions and anatomy, as well as storytelling chops to keep me stuck on the panels a second longer than I typically might. There’s another fun gag with Dick’s t-shirt being a Comics Code Authority sticker, and an even funnier sign on the van the gun smugglers are using at the very beginning. It’s all great stuff.

In the end, I think while this might be a Nightwing issue in disguise of a Trojan Horse Jon Kent comic; it runs the long game of continuing to cement Jon’s place in the DC Universe. I’m personally only so familiar with Jon Kent. I read the odd Super Sons issue here or there, and like most of DC fandom was confused as to why he was suddenly aged up to an older teenager. But in addition to being Metropolis’ Superman and being the first major queer hero in the Superbooks since Maggie Sawyer, investing another hero friendship in Nightwing is a smart move to keep us interested. It could’ve been other characters, like another Titan or Conner or Tim, but Dick is probably the most reliable character to confide in, so it works as a function of preserving legacy.

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Overview: In Future State: Gotham #11, Talia and Dick Grayson face dark secrets, as Jason Todd, the Next Batman, Harley Quinn, Punchline, and many more face the Next Joker!

Synopsis (spoilers ahead): As Punchline is transported back to jail, the Next Joker takes control of Magistrate robots to fight the Next Batman, Red Hood, Hunter Panic, and Tobias Whale. Harley Quinn comes to the rescue, disparaging both Jason and Jace, but Red Hood convinces her to help Hunter Panic with Whale.

Talia hooks Dick Grayson up to a huge drug apparatus so they can use the psychic powers created by the drug to find Damian, and when he doses, Dick sees Jason, Jace, Peacekeeper 01, Joker, Bruce, the Next Joker, Harley, Duke, Tim, Steph, Hush, Punchline, and Damian in a kaleidoscope of color. He tells Talia that he knows where Damian and Bruce are, but collapses, and she threatens her medics with death if they can’t keep him alive.

Jason takes Jace to one of Bruce’s old satellite caves to get some tech, while Harley, Hunter Panic, and Whale run into The Next Joker and his robots again. They fight a losing battle until Jason and Jace arrive clad in transforming motorcycle mecha-suits.

Analysis: Dennis Culver is joined by new artist Geoffo in Future State: Gotham #11, whose work is a good match for the main artist Giannis Milogiannis. The biggest highlight of the issue artistically is the use of color for one page during Dick Grayson’s drug trip, where the hues were provided by the masterful by Jordie Bellaire. As the newcomer to the black and white, sketchy vistas of Future State: Gotham, Geoffo does a fine job – a more solid grasp on series lead artist Giannis Milonogiannis’ style than other fill-in work for this run.

That being said, Culver continues to hammer on the action without serious character exploration, relationship, or development as Jason and Jace continue to dominate the series, despite the opportunities provided by the rest of the Bat-Family. The tiny scenes of Dick Grayson and Talia hunting for Damian and Bruce give more life than the other fifteen to eighteen pages of slogging “he just keeps getting back up, so hit him with a bigger stick” Next Joker action. I’m sure the final scene where Jason and Jace show up in Transformers-style mech suit/motorcycles, but without any attachment to what Jason or Jace actually want, who they are as characters outside their positions, and their names, it’s become increasingly tedious. The series has real potential, but the insistence on action over anything else, and action that’s increasingly repetitive because of the extremely narrow focus despite the huge cast and location open to them, drags the series down to a slog.

Included as well is “A Place In Between” by Rafael Albuquerque as the reprinted backup.

Simone di Meo continues to provide vivid, neo-noir-punk style covers, this time with the original Jace Next Batman costume front and center, with a hint of Next Joker behind him. A very Dark Knight Returns style Hunter Panic, complete with ropy lightning in a bright blue sky, splashes onto the cardstock variant by Mike Bowden.

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Steph (@SMozVO) and Ian (@ibmmiller) bring you Season 14 episode 3 of The Batman Universe Comic Podcast! Reviews: Detective Comics #1051 and #1052, Batman #120! Greater Gotham covers Batman/Catwoman #10, Urban Legends #12, I Am Batman #6, Batgirls #3, Future State: Gotham #10, The Joker #12. What is the Day in the Life of Gotham City? Why are little frog men great? All these questions and more! Send us your feedback at podcast@TheBatmanUniverse.net, @TBU_Comics, or on our Discord server!

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This week we take a break from the world of current events and news regarding The Batman to discuss something that some people will be putting a lot of thought into next week. Valentine’s Day is this coming Monday and rather than celebrating with your loved ones, take a moment to spend it with us as we discuss some of the best Batman Universe relationships.

Over the years, Batman has had a number of relationships. Some of been celebrated like the ones with Selina. Some of his relationships are so important that they ultimately gave us additional members of the Bat-Family such as Damian. Bruce may be a playboy, but not many of his relationships outside of the Batsuit have materialized into very meaningful pairings.

But it is also important to note, that despite the good relationships, there have been some bad and even ugly ones that fans would prefer to ignore. The horrific pairing of Bruce and Barbara in Batman: The Killing Joke is one a lot of fans would like to never have existed. But other animated incarnations have included some unexpected matchmaking that many fans may not have thought about.

And that’s not even talking about the other characters in the Batman Universe that make our best relationships list. Which ones will make the cut and which ones are part of the bad and ugly? Find out as Dustin, Adil, and BJ cover the relationships that you want to know more about and maybe some that you wish you didn’t.

You can help to support this show through Patreon. You can also find a variety of other ways to support the show by heading over to our Support Page.

Email us at TBU@thebatmanuniverse.net

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Overview: In The Joker #12, Jim Gordon finally meets the real mastermind behind all of this face-to-face.

Story 1: “The Joker” Part 12 by writer James Tynion IV and artist Giuseppe Camuncoli

Synopsis: The Joker #12 begins near Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, as a commercial plane begins its descent. There’s a rumble from the cargo hold, and Vengeance bursts forth, plummeting toward the ground. After she lands, she steals a pickup truck.

Aboard Barbara Gordon’s flight with Cressida, Cressida finally drops the ruse and tells Barbara that she knows about the spying. Cressida also reveals that Julia Pennyworth’s plane has been hijacked by a Talon. When Barbara asks why the Court of Owls is doing this, Cressida’s hulking protector knocks Barbara unconscious.

On Jim Gordon’s private flight to Texas, he tells Harvey Bullock everything. Harvey lets Jim know that he’s uncomfortable, that he’s nervous that the two of them are going to wind up dead. Jim proselytizes about the moral code, about trying to make the world a little bit better, even if someone rich and evil still makes money in the background. He says he’s too stubborn to give in, to make a buck for himself and ignore the shadows that get taller each year. Jim then tells Batgirl (Cassandra Cain) that he knows she’s hidden herself away on the flight. He tells her that he’s going to need her help.

Jim asks Batgirl when she lost contact with Julia Pennyworth. “Three hours ago,” Batgirl says.

Jim then calls Cressida, and when Cressida tells Jim that his services are no longer required (because they have Barbara), he retorts by informing her that he knows who was behind A-Day (the attack on Arkham Asylum in Infinite Frontier #0). Cressida and Jim agree to meet at a private airfield.

At the airfield, Jim tells Cressida that this isn’t going to go the way her employer wants it to unless Barbara and Julia are able to fly back to Gotham with Harvey Bullock. After some hesitation, Cressida agrees on the condition that the Talon goes with them.

Once aboard the plane, Batgirl takes out the Talon, and all of them fly back to Gotham. Once the plane is just out of sight, Jim tells Cressida that he knows who is really behind all of this. It’s Bane. The hulking protector standing behind Cressida puts on his trademark Bane mask and asks Jim if he understands what will happen next. Jim says that he does.

Elsewhere, Joker sits in a cell somewhere in Hooper County, Texas while a member of the Sawyer Clan sharpens a knife in the background.

Analysis: The Joker #12 opens with both an homage and a fun action piece that really sets the stage for the final few issues of The Joker series. In it, a commercial flight headed toward Texas experiences some sort of turbulence as Vengeance, the lab-grown daughter of Bane, bursts from the cargo hold and somehow manages to land without the need for a parachute. It’s both an exciting and gleefully ridiculous opener, and artist Giuseppe Camuncoli does a fantastic job penciling and laying out Vengeance’s explosive entrance. It’s the jolt readers need as writer James Tynion IV nears the finish line.

The opening also serves as an homage to The Dark Knight Rises. In The Dark Knight Rises, the film opens with Bane pulling a heist on a private flight, with the plane splitting in half midair. It’s a wild stunt that conveys the audacious power of the supervillain. In The Joker #12, Tynion and Camuncoli have taken cues, paying tribute by having Bane’s daughter pull a similarly audacious feat aboard a commercial flight. It’s cool, exciting, and imaginative in having the creator credits float around Vengeance’s falling body amongst the plummeting luggage.

From here, the issue obsesses over air travel. Cressida and Barbara Gordon are on one plane. Julia Pennyworth and Talon are aboard another plane, and Jim Gordon and Harvey Bullock take flight on yet another plane. Tynion uses this “travel” issue to cut out the extraneous players. Barbara Gordon and Julia Pennyworth, who seemed so crucial earlier on in the series, are sidelined with Harvey Bullock. Talon is taken off the table. All that remains are the Sawyer Clan, Joker, Cressida, Vengeance, Jim Gordon, and Bane, the mastermind behind everything. While readers finally get a reveal of the true threat, it’s a bit underwhelming. Bane seemed a likely candidate since the beginning of The Joker series, as Cressida was always seen escorted around by a hulking brute who masked his frame with a long coat and his face with goggles and a scarf. In a series rife with new players like the Sawyers or the Network, it also feels too safe.

This reveal also begs the question as to why Bane felt the need to entice the Court of Owls into this? Earlier on in the series, Barbara’s investigations led her to believe that the Talon wasn’t necessarily a true Talon. Yet, there was a moment shown where Cressida was shown with the Court of Owls. We also don’t know why Bane had to bring out all these players if he just wanted to crush the manufacturing of “designer” supervillains, and we’ve also been shown an about-face from Jim, whose mental deliberation on whether or not to kill The Joker has seemingly been decided off-panel, with him resolved to save Joker.

There are still two issues left in the series, so hopefully, Tynion and the creative team will be able to provide more clarity as to what’s going on in The Joker. Overall, it’s been a thrilling ride around the globe, and at the very least, we’re most likely going to see a bombastic and gory finish.

Story 2” “Punchline” Part 12 by writers Sam Johns and James Tynion IV and artist Belėn Ortega

Synopsis: The backup in The Joker #12 focuses on the lead from Kelly Ness, as Bluebird (Harper Row) tracks down Aiden, Punchline’s friend from her teen years. Aiden is staging a hit on someone, and Bluebird assumes it’s Kelly. She takes down Aiden and handcuffs him, planning to bring him in to be used against Punchline.

Meanwhile, Punchline arrives at court for her big trial. Throngs of fans cheer her on.

Dr. Leslie Thompkins calls Bluebird, informing her that Kelly Ness is missing. While Bluebird is distracted, Aiden throws himself from an open window in order to tie up any “loose ends” that could harm Punchline.

At the courthouse, Cullen Row shows up and awaits the defense team. It seems he is to give testimony in Punchline’s favor.

Analysis: This Punchline backup story is also nearing its conclusion with the big trial finally looming around the corner. In essence, this issue is all about setting up the board before Punchline takes the stand. Aiden kills himself, and Cullen has seemingly sided with the defense. Harper also has only two issues to track down Kelly Ness and get her to testify on the prosecution’s behalf.

This backup chapter is better than many of the previous ones, but it’s too little too late. For those who have read every chapter thus far, most of this Punchline storyline has been about Harper Row chasing down one McGuffin to the next, which has been exhausting.

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