Comics / Comic Reviews / DC Comics

Batman #16

By Avi Weinryb
February 7, 2017 - 00:08

After the events of the previous story arc, Batman knows Bane is coming for him and everyone he holds dear. It’s only a matter of time until the deadly villain crashes Gotham, so preparations are in order. Batman is demanding that his boy wonders (Nightwing, Robin, Red Hood and Duke) get out of town since they’d only get steamrolled. He needs to fight Bane alone. But Catwoman, still on the prowl, may prove to be an ally. And the rest of the Bat-crew isn’t exactly ready to pick up and go.

This issue is loaded up with strong action and fun dialogue. From shenanigans at Arkham Asylum to the rooftop Bat-signal station to a humorous sequence at a Batman-themed restaurant, there is undoubtedly something for everyone here. While some may critique the Batman restaurant sequence because it is absurd that a place would allow patrons to “Jokerize” (upgrade) their fries when the Joker is a local mass-murderer and psychopath, others will find it a welcome touch of hilarity. Some suspension of belief is necessary to otherwise enjoy the peculiar sight of Bruce Wayne slicing up a burger with a fork and knife, or Damian Wayne eating a kid’s meal complete with packaging featuring a cameo by Batmite. King is having fun, taking a breather from some of the heavier beats from recent issues. It’s a welcome respite. If only the DC Comics movies could learn to do the same and not just spoonfeed the “grimdark” derivations from the Nolan films. But I digress.

David Finch is an excellent fit, able to capture the crime-fighting shenanigans as well as the absurd bits of comedy. The opening four pages are a showcase of his talents, with zero dialogue and a whole lot of action. Some luck soul will collect all four pages of the original art for a nice display on a wall. And why not? It’s attractive and deft.

Like the pages that begin the book, the final page contains zero dialogue but a whole lot of meaning. I’m inclined to believe it’s misleading, but it’s still one helluva splash page. You’ll want to be sitting down when you see it. In fact, you’ll want to be sitting when you ready most of King’s Batman books these days. It’s an intense ride.

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12