It seems a busy time to be a Batman
fan. Gotham just wrapped up, Detective Comics hit the landmark 1,000th
issue, and a new title is launched this very week. But the Caped Crusader has
become such an archetype, that even the most casual of fans needs very little
prompting as to his back story and motivations.
So when Robin is featured in the latest issue of Detective Comics, it feels so very
natural and refreshing, even though it is Damian rather than Dick. Yes, I am a
crusty old fart who pines for the good old days, but I’ve become more
comfortable with Dick is now Nightwing, and Damian is Robin. It’s enough to
make me overlook that terrible detour in the late 1980s.
Artists Walker and
Hennessy characterize the Dynamic Duo in ways that are both iconic and
refreshing. Not an easy task, when attempting to do so can seem forced and old
hat. Instead, they elevate Tomasi’s storytelling in a way that seems innovative
yet familiar. As for the secret behind the Arkham Knight, I won’t spoil it here
but I must admit I was agreeably surprised, and am looking forward to more.
I’ll admit I was skeptical
when this story arc began in Detective
Comics #1,000, but that’s mainly because DC couldn’t seem to allow that
issue to be a standalone. The story has become more engaging, and so long as it
doesn’t drag on too much longer, I’m eager to see where it leads.
Rating: 8/10