This
may be an interlude chapter, featuring little actual Mother Panic in favor of
character development and moving various pieces onto the board. Violet Paige is
reunited with an old flame, who appears to be under the control of “a very bad
man.” We’re not certain of his exact role – crime boss? wife beater? Your guess
is as good as mine, at this point.
The
tiresome emotional drama I spoke of last time continues. Alcoholism, physical
abuse, unhealthy same sex relationships and self-loathing seem to have become
the featured agenda of the book, rather than the crime busting we expect from
comic books. But hey, maybe I’m just continuing to view the likes of Batman
through the same lens as when I was 8 years old. When one thinks of his
fractured psyche, is he really any different?
This
issue introduces what may be a new protagonist, and artist who paints in blood
the others work in oils or watercolors. Homicide as an art form. Hmm – where
have I heard that before?
The
Gotham Radio back-up feature continues. Hester & Parks offer an interesting
layout this time around, with individual panels in the form of interlocking
puzzle pieces. This reflects the narrative of this installment, as a handful of
clues begin to come together and offer a clearer picture to readers.
Rating:
3/10