Detective Comics #27 Review

Writers: Brad Meltzer, Gregg Hurwitz, Peter J. Tomasi, Francesco Francavilla, Mike Barr, John Layman and Scott Snyder
Artists: Bryan Hitch, Neal Adams, Ian Bertman, Francesco Francavilla, Guillem March, Jason Fabok and Sean Murphy

How will Batman’s 75th Anniversary fair? Read on to find out.

The official description from DC Comics:

DC Entertainment presents this mega-sized issue featuring an all-star roster of Batman creators past and present!

Don’t miss a modern-day retelling of The Dark Knight’s origin by the incredible team of writer Brad Meltzer and artist Bryan Hitch! Plus, all-new stories by Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy, Peter J. Tomasi and Guillem March, Paul Dini and Dustin Nguyen, Gregg Hurwitz and Neal Adams, new art by legendary Batman writer/artist Frank Miller and more!

Also in this issue, John Layman and Jason Fabok kick off the new storyline “GOTHTOPIA”! It’s a bright, shiny, happy place where dreams come true...as long as you don’t look at things too closely.

As far as mega-sized anniversary issues go, this was probably one of the best in recent years, and was certainly the most value for money having seven stories over 96 pages. The stories were however as expected rather inconsistent, though most were fitting for a celebratory issue.

The main story was “Gothtopia” written by regular Detective Comics writer John Layman with the artwork also coming from the usual artist Jason Fabok. Now the story itself was very interesting, taking a very different approach to the Batman mythos. It was however the mystery behind the story that interest me the most, with it having a “Nineteen Eighty-Four” feel to it. The artwork from Fabok was also as usual extremely impressive, having a lot of detail to it. The layout along with action sequences also impressed me, adding a lot of excitement and intensity to the story.

The other stories came from various creators including Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy, Brad Meltzer and Bryan Hitch, Gregg Hurwitz and Neal Adams, Peter J. Tomasi and Ian Bertman, Francesco Francavilla, and Mike Barr and Guillem March. All of these tales were be very impressive, with most actually being better than the main “Gothtopia” story. It was however the charm and retro feel of Hurwitz and Adam‘s “Old School” and the fitting birthday celebration in Tomasi and Bertman’s “Better Days” that impressed me the most, with both adding a lot to the overall feel.

Overall this was a very fitting tribute issue and well worth the money. The stories were all interesting and exciting with the main story “Gothtopia” being the perfect start to Layman and Fabok’s final arc. Highly recommended.

Rating: 8/10

Forever Evil: Arkham War #1 Review

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artist: Scot Eaton

Although the Villains Month prequels in the Scarecrow and Bane issues weren't as good as I hoped they would I have still been looking forward to this series, with this being the only mini-series from Forever Evil that I'll be getting bar Forever Evil itself.

Plot

With Bane's arrival near, Scarecrow turns to Penguin for advice on how to deal with him.

Review

This was surprisingly a very good opening issue for the series, as I half expected the first issue to be of the same quality level that the Villains Month prequels were. Peter J. Tomasi did however do a very good job of kicking this off, giving people who missed Villains Month a reader friendly issue, whilst also allowing people who read the prequels a better reading experience. The issue itself was also brilliantly paced, as even the slower sequences had the perfect mood and tone, with the exciting moments also being very explosive, and dramatic. Tomasi also did a great job of adding as many villains as he could without it feeling forced, and I was very happy that he added a smaller villain like Professor Pyg.

The artwork on this issue was also amazing, and Scot Eaton did a fantastic job. The detail throughout the issue was brilliant, with everything being very consistent. I also really enjoyed the way that Eaton laid his artwork out, as it helped with the overall pace of the issue, adding a lot of depth, and also being very dynamic. Eaton also did a brilliant job with the character movement, and expression in this issue as well, as it allowed for so much more excitement and drama, also adding even more depth to the issue. I also loved how Eaton drew Bane, as he managed to make him look like the monster that he is, showing the intensity that he brings, which isn't easy considering you can't show much facial expressions.

The main theme of this issue would be Bane's imminent arrival, and due to this the issue would see Scarecrow frantically going about trying to find ways of stopping Bane. This would included Scarecrow having interactions with both Professor Pyg and the new mayor of Gotham, the Penguin. Now I really enjoyed this, as although I have found Scarecrow's personal fear to be a hindrance for his character, it was handled in a brilliant way in this issue. I also really enjoyed the Penguin's lack of concern over this, as it showed his characteristics perfectly.

This issue would also see Bane on a rampage, with his main target in this issue being Blackgate Penitentiary. Bane was easily the most enjoyable character to read in this issue, and Tomasi really seems to know what he's doing, as although his Bane Villains Month issue was rather slow, he has made up for that big time in this issue. I also really enjoyed seeing Bane exert his dominance, and how it was extremely clear that he didn't care about anything besides taking control of Gotham. I also enjoyed how Tomasi showed Bane's intelligence, as although he doesn't care what he has to do, he still very much has a plan about how best to accomplish his goal.

Another thing that I enjoyed about this issue was that we got to see how the Gotham City Police Department was dealing with the sudden carnage, with Commissioner James Gordon making an appearance. Now his appearance wasn't long in this issue, and that was probably a very good thing, as it didn't take away from the two main characters, Bane and Scarecrow. I did however feel that it was a great addition, as with Batman gone there needed to be some sign of protection for the city, as although they may not be winning, it wouldn't be right to show not attempt at all to stop these villains.

Final Verdict

This was a fantastic issue, and much better than I originally thought it would be. It was however still not perfect, but did set the series up brilliantly, and I'm expecting a lot from the future of the series now. This issue itself was also very dramatic and exciting, being perfectly paced, with the slower parts even having brilliant tone to counter that. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue, as it is well worth giving a try.

Rating: 8/10

Batman #23.4 Bane Review

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artist: Graham Nolan

This was an issue that I was slightly excited about, but dreading following the disappointing Scarecrow issue last week. Bane has been one of the villains that I've enjoyed most over the years as although he's not always been used properly, when he is he's a huge threat to anyone in his way.

Plot

With Batman gone Bane makes plans to return to Gotham City and take the city as his own.

Review

This was a good issue, and although I enjoyed it, it was far from perfect. Peter J. Tomasi once again did a great job of setting up the upcoming Forever Evil: Arkham War series in this issue, though it wasn't much more than set-up. I did however prefer this to the other set-up to Arkham War in the Scarecrow issue, as this managed to have much more excitement to it, as well as having more depth. I did however feel that the issue didn't show Bane at his best, as although most of his characteristics were spot on he didn't seem as driven as he normally is. I do however have a lot of hope for the upcoming Arkham War series, as although both set-up issues haven't been brilliant, they have shown a lot of promise.

I was in two minds about the artwork in this issue as although I overall enjoyed it I felt that Graham Nolan didn't do as good a job on Bane as he has in the past. Now I'll talk about the good stuff first as the layout to Nolan's artwork was amazing, being very dynamic and impactful. I also felt that it was very well detailed throughout, and that although it had quite a few plain backgrounds it managed to work well with the tone of the issue. I would however have preferred Bane to have been bigger, as although Nolan did a good job of showing his sheer power, I would have rather him been the huge foe that I loved through Knightfall. In saying that there probably was no need for him to be bigger in this story, and overall Nolan did a fantastic job.

This issue would quickly make it clear that Bane wants Gotham for himself now that Batman is no longer around. Now this is an interesting development, and given the fact that Scarecrow plans on taking Gotham for himself as well it has made the perfect set-up scenario for the upcoming Arkham War series. I did however feel that the issue spent too much time on this, not allowing us to see the best side of Bane. Bane did however manage to give some atmosphere to this issue, just not as much as I hoped he would.

This issue would also briefly run through Bane's origins, showing how he grew up in one of the worst prisons on the planet, Peña Dura, and how he got the venom that drives him. This quick summary of his origin was a nice touch as it allows people who want to know his origin the chance to see it, whilst also not clogging the issue up for people who know it well. I personally however would have rather seen a bit more of this in the issue, as given how the issue went it would have added more excitement to it.

WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILERS AHEAD!

The Scarecrow Villains Month issue would state that Bane would go to Blackgate Penitentiary to get an army, so when I started this issue I was surprised that he was still in Peña Dura. The issue does however have Blackgate involved, though I would have liked them to have had a bigger role, and for Bane to have actually been there himself. It did however also add to the set-up, as although I complained about this and the Scarecrow issue being too much set-up this should mean that Arkham War has no excuse to excel.

Final Verdict

This was an enjoyable issue but nothing special, having a little too much set-up work for the upcoming Arkham War series. It did however have some excitement as well as a lot of depth, but it didn't really do Bane justice, quickly summarising his origin, and not showing him in much action. Due to this I'd only recommend this to anyone who's either that big of a Bane fan that they can't miss it, anyone who's considering getting Arkham War, or anyone who has spare cash and is looking for something half decent to read.

Rating: 6/10

Detective Comics #23.3 Scarecrow Review

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artist: Szymon Kudranski

I wasn't originally going to get this issue, but after deciding to get all of the Villains Month issues from Detective Comics, as well as the fact that this will follow into Forever Evil: Arkham War I thought I'd give it a try.

Plot

Scarecrow is continuing his recruiting whilst also preparing to go to war against the Blackgate prisoners.

Review

This was a good issue, being better than the last Detective Comics Villains Month issue, but still nothing overly brilliant. Peter J. Tomasi did a great job of setting up the upcoming Forever Evil: Arkham War series in this issue, but at the same time it took a little away from Scarecrow as a character, which will upset fans of the character who aren't bothered about Arkham War. I did however like the direction that Tomasi is taking Scarecrow in, as although he didn't delve into his characteristics too much, he's shown him in a more powerful position, as over the last few years he's been rather pathetic. I also loved how this wasn't an origin story as we already had plenty of that in Batman: The Dark Knight: Cycle of Violence.

I wasn't too happy about the artwork in this issue, as although I've enjoyed Szymon Kudranski's art in the past, I didn't like his artwork on Scarecrow, and with him being the main character in the issue that's a big problem. The rest of Kudranski's art was very good, and I especially enjoyed his artwork on Mr. Freeze in this issue, but Scarecrow himself looked like a common robber, which I didn't like. I also felt that it was slightly too dark at times, as although that suited the issue as a whole, it didn't suit other characters such as Riddler. I did however love his layouts, and if he had drawn a better Scarecrow it would have been some of the best artwork of this week, but unfortunately that wasn't the case.

Due to Scarecrow going around trying to recruit villains to fight alongside him in his upcoming war there was a lot of cameo appearances, all of which I enjoyed. The two that I personally enjoyed the most were Mr. Freeze and Riddler, as although Tomasi got all the villains characteristics right, it was the interaction between these two and Scarecrow that I enjoyed most. I did however also enjoy seeing Poison Ivy and Killer Croc, though I did feel that Croc's entrance was slightly sudden, even though there was a key hint the page prior.
Scarecrow wouldn't be alone in this issue, as besides talking with other villains he would have somewhat of an assistant in the form of Hudson. Now Hudson is never going to win lackey of the year, but he was a brilliant addition, giving Scarecrow someone slightly less complex to work off, as well as someone who's going to agree with his actions. I also loved how Hudson would get the short end of the stick at times, which really amused me, even though it was simplistic.

As I said this issue was mainly set-up for the upcoming Arkham War, but it hasn't half got me excited for it, as well as next weeks Bane Villains Month issue, as it would appear that he'll be Scarecrow's main competition in the series. I also love the concept of the series as although we've seen both sides fight alongside, and against each other in the past, it will be interesting to see it without Batman's presence. I also loved how the issue would have the upcoming war as it's main concept, and I especially enjoyed the small additions like Riddler pulling out Art of War by Sun Tzu.

Final Verdict

A brilliant set-up for the upcoming Forever Evil: Arkham War series, but not the best Scarecrow issue character wise. The issue did however have plenty of brilliant cameos, also being suspenseful, and dramatic. It was however simply too much set-up, which although interesting meant that it wasn't anything special, and due to this I'd only recommend the issue to anyone who's getting Arkham War when it's out, and wouldn't recommend it to someone wanting an amazing Scarecrow story, or a story that shows the best of Scarecrow's characteristics.

Rating: 6/10

Batman and Robin #23.1 Two-Face Review

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi

Artist: Guillem March

Villains Month has been something that I have been extremely interested in, and now that it's hear I am very happy. Being a huge Batman fan I am personally looking forward to the Batman villains making there appearances, and although I've already been disappointed with the Joker's issue, I'm sure most of them will be good.

Plot

Two-Face has to make the decision of whether to save Gotham City, or "make it bleed," but when Scarecrow invites Two-Face to join the Secret Society of Super Villains it makes things awkward.

Review

This was a brilliant issue, and one of the better issues from this weeks Villains Month issues. Peter J. Tomasi did a superb job with this issue, and I loved how he got Two-Face spot on, and especially loved the conflicting monologue from Two-Face, showing how spit he is between every decision he makes. I also loved how this was a relatively dark story, whilst also managing to be fun as well, keeping the readers interest at a high point, whilst also keeping the excitement at a high level. I also loved how well this tied into Forever Evil without being a direct tie-in, as although I like the idea of some of the stories being set in the past, or completely new origins, it's nice to see some of them set in the present.

The art on this issue was also amazing, and although it wasn't necessarily the best artwork that I've seen from Guillem March, it was still outstanding. I especially loved the way he laid out his artwork, and especially near the start, as the panels showing Two-Face making his initial decision of whether to save Gotham or not was so impactful, and I especially loved the coin flip. I also loved the way that March drew Two-Face in general, as he looks just as he should, having the sinister disfigured side, which was amazing, and the slick normal side which was fantastic, especially next to each other. I was however not a fan of March's Scarecrow, but besides that I loved his artwork.

The theme of this issue was about how Two-Face makes his decisions, and although I already mentioned how well Tomasi handled this I felt that I'd also go into how this helped the story itself. The whole coin toss decision making of Two-Face is his distinguishing feature, and it has always been established that he wouldn't cope well without the coin to make his decisions for him. Well I loved how this was reflected in the story, as it is what shaped the tone, and the atmosphere of it, making is something unique, but also something exciting, and interesting.

This issue would also feature another Batman villain in the form of Scarecrow, who's become the Secret Society of Super Villains go to guy for recruitment, with Two-Face being one of the people he's trying to recruit. The interaction between the two characters in this issue was simply amazing, as I loved how it showed the similarities they both have, whilst also making it very clear that these are two very different types of characters. I also loved how Scarecrow was able to have a interesting role in this issue without taking the spotlight away from Two-Face, as although Tomasi didn't shy away from giving Scarecrow good dialogue, it was still clear that this was Two-Face's show.

A good part of this story would see Two-Face give out his own brand of justice to the people of Gotham, returning to the Court House one more time. I just loved this, as it showed just how out of sync with the real world Two-Face really is, and how far he's willing to go to deliver what he considers to be justice, giving them just two options life in prison, or death, all of which is dependant on what the coin decides. I also enjoyed the small flashbacks that would happen during this sequence, showing how much he has changed since becoming Two-Face, which was a really interesting addition, especially due to this not being an origin story.

Final Verdict

This was a terrific story, and it got the Two-Face character spot on. It has also been one of the better Villains Month issues from this week, being very exciting, and dramatic, whilst managing to balance in both dark, and fun elements. It also had a very interesting story that ties in nicely with Forever Evil without it being necessary to read both to enjoy one or the other. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue, as although it wasn't quite perfect it was extremely enjoyable.

Rating: 8/10

Batman and Robin #18 Review

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artist: Pat Gleason

I have really enjoyed this series, and although it's had it's ups and downs it's been a very fun series. This issue however isn't fun, as it shows the aftermath of Batman, Incorporated #8, and how Batman is dealing with his loss.

Plot

Batman is in morning after the death of his son, Damian Wayne. This silent issue shows how Damian's death has affected his father, whilst also showing some of Batman's memories of Damian.

Review

This was probably the most emotional issue I have ever read, and by far the best silent issue I've read. It also ranks as one of my favourite issues in this series, along with Batman and Robin Annual #1. It's easy to forget just how much work a writer puts into some issues, as some comics are mainly picture orientated, with some being like this silent. I noticed a few years ago when I got a special edition of a silent(ish) issue that had the script at the back that writers do much more work, meticulousness describing each scene. Peter J. Tomasi has done a brilliant job with this silent issue, and the emotion just leaps out of the page. I do however think that it's an issue that will mean more to people who have been following this series, or read Batman Inc. #8, but it's still very touching. I personally don't get emotional whilst reading things, but it's the subtleties like this issue has that make me slightly emotional.

Patrick Gleason's done a marvelous job with the artwork, and this is probably the best art he's done in the series. Like Tomasi, Gleason has put a lot of emotion into his art, and it shows. You can feel all the emotion flowing through the characters, and if you hadn't already known that someone was dead then the whole demeanor of the story would tell you that this wasn't a fun story. The detail was also brilliant, and I loved that it emphasized on the space that Damian was leaving, as you see panels with Batman and Robin, then you see ones with Batman alone in a similar way. My favourite panel was where Batman looked in a window and noticed through the reflection that he was on his own, as that again emphasized Damian's absence. The other page I liked was the one that was a mirror of the cover, but with Damian along side Batman.

I've re-read this issue so many times to get the full emotion of it, and it's still hard to find the right focus points to talk about. I'll start with one of the ones that interested me the most, the constant absence of Damian. I already stated that Gleason did a good job of this is his art, but it really shows in the story also, as we see the family portrait, with Damian being the only member unfinished, Batman sliding down the Batpole, whilst remembering doing it with Damian, and the window reflection. The most powerful of these was between the Batpole sequence, and the portrait. They both really showed the absence, and although the window was my favourite panel these sequences showed more emotion. The panel near the start with Bruce looking at Damian's empty bed, with Damian's dog Titus next to it also gave a similar feel, and it added another form of emptiness. Another interesting question is: what will become of Damian's pet's? He owned a fair few, so I wonder what will happen. Although this probably won't be interesting it will be something I'll look out for.

It was also nice to see that Bruce wasn't the only one affected, as we see Alfred upset at one point. I can't imagine what Bruce himself is going through as he's not only lost a Robin, but his son. He'll also shoulder most of the blame as he will feel that it was his fault for letting Damian continue being Robin. At the same time however Alfred has been probably the biggest friend to any of the Robin's, adding them when Batman disapproves of something, and overall showing encouragement. Alfred himself will also probably feel responsible as he allowed Damian to go out as Robin, and in doing so sent him to his death, or at least that's how I think Alfred will see it.

Batman's anger was also another thing I expected to come. Although Batman #18 showed this much more (I'm sure Batman, Incorporated #9 will do the same), this issue showed the anger of the Bat, as he went out and disposed of his rage. It's this that makes the statement bold in this issue, as besides this all we see is despair, and upset, but in real life that also leads to anger. I'm curious to see just how big an affect this will have on Batman, as he could become a very dangerous person, and this issue alone shows that he's not a person to mess with at this moment.

Although this issue was amazing, as well as very emotional, I'm more looking forward to seeing how this series continues without Damian, as it was the father, son relationship that I enjoyed the most. I know that it will become a Batman and book, with Red Robin (Tim Drake), Red Hood (Jason Todd), Batgirl (Barbara Gordon), and Nightwing (Dick Grayson) featuring, but I'll still be looking forward to seeing what the bigger picture holds, as Batman always needs a Robin.

Final Verdict

Probably one of the most touching issues I've ever read this is the perfect follow-on from Batman Inc. #8, and in my opinion a better issue. Although the whole Requiem concept has interested me, with some very unique takes, this has been the one that's showed the loss of Damian the most, and I don't see the remaining series' beating it. I would easily recommend this to anyone, whether you follow this series or not, as it's brilliant, and very emotional, and even if you just wanted to read this issue you wouldn't need to get the rest of the series.

Rating: 5/5

Batman and Robin #17 Review

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artist: Pat Gleason

Now that Death of the Family is finished all the Bat titles will go their separate ways, and I hope that this is the perfect timing for this series to finally turn things around, and become the series the initial issues showed it can be.

Plot

This issue sees Batman (Bruce Wayne) Robin (Damian Wayne), and Alfred going of to sleep after a long night, and having some strange dreams whilst there.

Review

This has to be one of the best Batman and Robin issues I've read in ages apart from the recent Annual. Following in the same fashion as the annual this is a nice one-shot issue, which is very unique and interesting, whilst being entertaining throughout. Peter J. Tomasi has done a splendid job of giving a story which is very light heartened, whilst still having a hint of darkness to it, which is a nice touch considering what Batman and Robin have went through recently at the hands of the Joker. I do hope that Tomasi can keep this up, as it's very well doing a brilliant job on one-shot issues, but it's not much of a consolation if he continues to produce poor ongoing stories, but I have ever faith that he will continue this form throughout the series.

I've had mixed feelings of Patrick Gleason artwork on this series as of late, but I'm finally happy with it again. I've always felt that Gleason's artwork suits this series brilliantly, but during the Death of the Family crossover it was far from perfect. Although it's still not quite perfect this time, it is much better, and reminds me what I liked about it in the first place. I love the way he draws all the characters, and especially Damian, and Titus (Damian's dog). The detail in his artwork has also improved in this issue, as most of it is very detailed. There is however a few parts that aren't quite as detailed as possible, and also the odd awkward facial expression, but overall the artwork is fabulous. I also loved the layout as it was brilliantly done, adding drama, and a hint of suspense.

Now onto the dreams. I'll talk about all the dreams whilst also trying to avoid spoilers, but I will warn you now in case there are any. I'll start with Damian's dreams since his were the first shown. He's the only character to have had multiple dreams in this issue, or from a certain perspective he could have been the sole dreamer. Anyway his first dream sees him with a brother talking about their father, and the Bat-Family as if they were only tools to learn from, overstaying their use. It then showed Damian waking up to finding a robin. I thought this was a nice touch as in Batman, Incorporated Batman and Robin are dealing with Damian's mother Talia al Ghul. It also shows the way he was brought up by her, as she used people to teach Damian new skills, with Damian seeing them as nothing more than tools to learn from. The main thing I liked about Damian's sequence was that the dream he woke up from was a dream in itself. This reminded me of the Christopher Nolan film Inception which had a story that involved characters that would go into a dream, within a dream, within a dream, and so on, similar to the case with Damian waking up into a dream.

Although Damian's dream had more fun in it, Alfred's was the one that I felt showed more emotion. It shows Alfred getting revenge on the Joker, who's attacking the rest of the Bat-Family with a hammer. This gives Alfred a chance to get rid of his frustrations, as he was easily the most affected by Death of the Family, being Joker's captive for most of the story, going through all kinds of hell, so I liked that although he couldn't get back at Joker in real life he could in his dreams.

Bruce's dream was probably the most unique. It shows him creating a paper boat in the sewer for the darkness sail of in, whilst his parents question this. The series showed Batman doing this earlier in the series, so I liked the reference, and it was interesting to see the difference of opinion his parents have. Overall this was the most disappointing dream, as it doesn't really add much to Batman's character, as everyone knows that he still thinks about his parents, and their death constantly. All the same it was nice to see it mentioned, as it gives newer readers a insight (all be it slightly confusing) to Batman's emotions towards his parents.

Final Verdict

This was a very different issue, and won't necessarily be to everyone's tastes. I personally loved it and would recommend it to anyone, as due to it's uniqueness it will at least keep you interested, and has a 50% chance of having you also liking it. I hope that the series continues to be as good as this issue, as I know it can be.

Rating: 4.5/5

Batman and Robin #16 Review

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artist: Pat Gleason

I have been a big fan of this series, and although it's been in a bit of a rut as of late, it is still a very fun series. I'm happy that this part of the Death of the Family crossover hasn't used Batman as much as the other titles usually featuring Batman, as there are already quite a few, and it would question where he got all the time from. A similar question I've been asking about the Joker.

Plot

This issue sees Robin faced against his own father Batman. Batman is apparently affected by Joker's Joker Venom, and isn't going to stop until he kills Robin.

Review

This was a very good issue, but the whole two part story has felt forced into the Death of the Family crossover, and more so in this issue. Each time I pick up this series I hope it returns to being as good as it was when I started reading it, and although Peter J. Tomasi has improved in this storyline it still isn't quite there. Although I didn't love this issue I still think that Tomasi did a decent job, but wasn't too sure if I liked the way he put Batman against Robin. It's an interesting idea, especially at a time like this, but I'm personally not sure if it worked, but I'll talk more about that later. I didn't mind the way Tomasi wrote Joker, as although he wasn't terrible at writing him, he isn't the best. I did however think that although forced that it was a good way of involving Robin in the Death of the Family crossover.

Once more I was torn over whether I liked Patrick Gleason's art or not, as I like his overall style, and think it really suits this series, but at the same time think that it was inconsistent, and didn't look right in certain places. The main thing about Gleason's art that I question myself over is the way he draws the Joker, as he has done a great job of showing the decay on his face mask, but at the same time it doesn't look right in certain panels, as it looks very unrealistic, and too weird, in a bad way. The facial expressions of the Joker are also very weird, especially his eyes, as he almost looks high on drugs in certain panels, which doesn't look right. I do however like the way Gleason has drawn Robin, and have always liked it throughout this series. I also liked how he drew the Joker Venom infected Batman, as he looked like a cross between Batman, and Joker, and Gleason drew it just as I imagined, which was nice.

The main theme in this issue was Batman vs. Robin. I think the idea of Batman vs. Robin is brilliant, and would love to see it done in a different way further down the line, but I didn't think it was right for this issue. Although I say this I do see good reasons for having this happen, as it's the right moment to have a Joker Venom infected Batman, especially after current events, and it's also a brilliant way to bring Damain into Joker's game. The fight itself was however a bit long, and it felt a bit rough, and weird in certain panels, which wasn't very nice.

Although the fight itself left a slightly bitter taste, Damian's actions during it were brilliant. I loved that we get to see some development of Damian in this issue, as although he'd never kill Batman it shows just how far he's willing to go to save him. Although there are a lot of fans that dislike Damian (you could say this about most characters) I've really enjoyed him over the last few years, and his development has been the one that has kept me most interested. I've liked seeing how he shows more and more affection towards his father throughout time, as despite action the bad boy he appears to be a child looking for his fathers approval. This issue however showed exactly how Damian feels toward his father, and I liked that he's only fight him to defend himself, and would rather die than kill him.

The ending was both good and bad. I won't spoil the ending, but will explain why I think it was both good and bad. The ending itself (like the ending of Batgirl #16, and what I expect the ending of the other Death of the Family series will be) sets up Batman #17, which is the finally of the Death of the Family crossover. This was nice as the ending of Batman #16 was brilliant, and looked like it would involve the rest of the Bat-Family in the finally, but at the same time it leaves this part of the crossover ending unfinished, which may not suit the few people who have been reading Batman and Robin, but not Batman.

Final Verdict

This was a very good issue, and although it wasn't one of the best additions to Death of the Family it's by far not the worst, and worth getting. I would highly recommend this issue to anyone who has last issue, or considering getting it, but wouldn't recommend it as a jumping on point.

Rating: 4/5

Batman and Robin #15 Review

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artist: Pat Gleason

Overall I have been enjoying this series, bit recently it's been poor, and not as good as it used to be. I have been hoping that the series will get better after joining the Death of the Family crossover, and it has, but not quite as much as I hoped it would.

Plot

This issue sees Robin (Damian Wayne) meet the Joker for the first time. Whilst following a lead he is captured by the Joker who tries to torment him, whilst playing his sick game.

Review

This was a good issue, and a decent start to Robin's involvement in Death of the Family. It's also much better than the previous story but does have room for improvement. Peter J. Tomasi has done a brilliant job of introducing Damian into the Death of the Family, and I loved how he wrote his interaction with the Joker. I still think that the overall plot could have been a little bit better, and with only another issue in the story I feel that this issue spent to much time with Damian and Joker talking than actually developing the plot. He also did a brilliant job of showing the symbolism of Batman and Robin in this issue, which was done in a brilliant way, but I'll talk more about that later.

I wasn't too sure what to make of Patrick Gleason's art in this issue, as it's very inconsistent. Overall I've enjoyed his art throughout this series, and think it suits the tone of the series. I especially like how he draws Damian. I also liked how he drew Joker at certain points during this issue, but didn't at others. Joker looked very graphical at points, which I liked, and with the maggots around about him he looked even more gruesome. What I didn't like however was at times, with wider panels having him a bit further in the distance how he looked very cartoon like, and not the gruesome Joker that was in other parts of the issue. It was this inconsistency that I didn't like, and it was that bad I was starting to question whether I liked his art overall. I did however barely like his art overall but hope that he loses these inconsistencies, as he's had quite a lot over the last few issues.

The way Joker was introduced into this issue was very good, and I loved how due to him hanging upside down that he had his face on upside down. This showed the unpredictability of Joker as well as him being mental unstable. I thought it was brilliant and the most unique thing that's been done with the mask. I'm surprised that no one has thought of including the mask in a more interesting way earlier in the issue, as a man with no face, and a mask of his former face just screams for material. It was also fun seeing Joker's eyes popping out of his lips, and parts of his teeth showing through his eye holes, and although you couldn't see his facial expressions clearly, his face being upside down added shade in area's that wouldn't usually have it, giving more tone, and mood to the character.

There was also a part of this issue where Joker referenced the events of Batman: The Killing Joke when he was talking about sharing a joke with Batman in the rain. If this statement alone wasn't enough to show that it was referencing Killing Joke, Damian replies by saying, "if your [Joker's] idea of a good time is paralysing an innocent girl," referring to Joker shooting Barbara Gordon. Killing Joke is my favourite Batman story of all time so I always like a Killing Joke reference, and this is no exception. I also enjoyed how this was a slightly different reference to the ones we've seen in the last few years, as it talks about the classic joke that both Joker and Batman laughed to at the end of the book. The way Damian interacted with Joker overall was interesting, and although it dragged on at certain points I loved how Damian stood his ground, and wasn't intimidated by Joker.

Joker also used an actual Bat and Robin to symbolise the differences between Batman and Robin, and why they shouldn't be a team. Although the differences between Batman and Robin have been mentioned in the past but this is a very different look on it. Cause Joker uses the actual animals to show the difference, I personally feel that it get's the message across a lot clearer, and although it was a bit disgusting I liked it. I also felt that Joker was the perfect person to make this interpretation of Batman and Robin as it fits with his unpredictable personality, and his sadistic nature.

Final Verdict

This was a good issue and decent addition to Death of the Family. The series is still not as strong as it was in the earlier issue, and need improvement, but is on the right track. I would recommend this issue, especially if you're collecting the Death of the Family tie-ins, or a fan of the Damian character.

Rating: 4/5

Batman and Robin #14

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artists: Pat Gleason & Tomás Giorello

SPOILERS BLOCKED OUT IN WHITE! 
(Highlight White Areas to Reveal Spoilers)

I have been a Batman and Robin fan for a few years now (since the Grant Morrison run) and have been enjoying the better part of this series. It has however been very inconsistent with one good issue or story followed by a bad one. Although Peter J. Tomasi has done an overall brilliant job he has slipped the last few issues (not including issue 0) and I hope it starts to get back on track.

Plot

This issue sees Robin being taken by a bunch of zombies to some kind of ritual. After Batman has dealt with the zombies where he is he trying to get a hold of Damian to no avail. With Damian not answering Batman rushed to his location to see if he needs help.

Review

This wasn't a bad issue but like the previous issue the subject matter was too random for a Batman comic. Overall Tomasi has been doing a great job on this series but since the opening story there hasn't been much to enjoy (apart from the appearance of the former Robins in issue 12, and Damian's origin in issue 0). This story has also felt like a filler filling the gap whilst Tomasi works on the Death of the Family tie in issue. Although it bridged the gap between this issue and the next I don't think it was a brilliant idea having Joker as the person behind these events as it's not really something he'd do.

The art was in this issue was good, both from Patrick Gleason and Tomás Giorello, although like last issue I would have preferred it if only one person did the art. I liked the art for the better part of the issue and think that Gleason's style really suits this series. I did however feel that the art was a little inconsistent and didn't like the way the artist drew hair during certain sequences. Besides this I would still prefer Gleason doing the art throughout the entire issue as his art goes better with the fun and fast pace of this series and although Giorello's art is brilliant it feels to serious for this series.

I really enjoyed how Robin got to stand out as the hero in this issue when he saves people from the zombies. Although he's been a hero for a while now (and the whole of the New 52) he has never had a proper chance to prove himself on his own and always had someone with him when it counts. He has also strayed from the path Batman's set him in the past which has left questions to whether he should still be Robin.

The best part about this issue was the action and I loved seeing Batman and Robin fighting zombies (almost made it worth adding the zombies in the first place). I also enjoyed the expression on Robin's face when Batman arrives and how quick it drops when Batman tells him that there's "nothing to be smiling about," yet. I thought it was also a smart choice to have Batman try and subdue the zombies with tranquillisers at the start as Batman would always try the lest harmful way to subdue someone, especially if they are being controlled.

The emotion between Bruce and Damian in this issue was brilliant and especially as the issue got closer to the end. You can see both the Batman and Robin connection, as in Batman being in charge with an overconfident sidekick next to him, whilst also seeing the father and son connection, as Batman is the concerned father looking out for his son and Robin is just trying to make his dad proud. The sequence between Bruce and Damian at the end of the issue also showed that Damian does have feelings and cares about his father a lot and that he is just a confused boy due to the way his mother (Talia al Ghul) raised him.

Final Verdict

Not a great issue but still good. I would recommend it to people who have the previous issue but I wouldn't recommend it to new readers. New readers are better off waiting till next issue which will hopefully be a lot better.

Rating: 3.5/5