The Batman corner of the DC Universe seems so awash with hype for the 'Night of the Owls' crossover, that the launch of this unconnected (so far) series has flown a little under the radar, despite the presence of superstar writer Grant Morrison. It's lack of connection to Night of the Owls is initially a little jarring, but to Morrison's credit he has managed to tell a compelling opening chapter without stepping on any of the other Bat-writers toes too much.
The plot of this first issue is hugely rich, and packed with layers that gradually begin to unravel as its plot progresses. It isn't obviously tied to the other Bat-titles currently being published, but uses them to further its ambitions. There is reference for example to the recent opening arc of Batman and Robin and to Dick Grayson's stint as the Caped Crusader. These are small details, but they add a depth to the story and a feeling of interconnectedness that is often absent from more self contained arcs. Morrison gets right to the heart of what makes Batman such a great character here too - there is intrigue, suspense and a set of rivetingly macabre villains.
Chris Burnham's pencils straddle the fine line between cartoony and realistic, a balance that it is difficult to meet correctly. He manages it with aplomb however, and his work here is varied and detailed throughout, aided by some great colours from Nathan Fairbarn. Some of his layouts are excellent too, and some fine storytelling skills are displayed across the issue.
This may not be tied as closely to D.C's New 52 as other series' are, but as the issue gradually reveals, it promises to be a series that will be highly significant for Batman's world. Chris Burnham's art is excellent, and Morrison's script is straightforward and easy to follow,while still containing the wacky touches that make him such an interesting writer. A very strong start.
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Josh, I'm not sure if you're doing it for the benefit of those who aren't aware, or if you yourself are not aware...This is a relaunch and direct continuation of Morrison's previous Batman, Inc. series, original Batman and Robin series, and his many other Batman comics, including "Batman R.I.P."
ReplyDeleteThe only strange thing here is that it took DC so long to get the book back on its publishing schedule. It has nothing to do with Snyder's Court of Owl stories, and hopefully won't, because this is meant to be the conclusion of Morrison's Leviathan epic, not to mention of his Batman work in general.
I was aware that it was a continuation of Batman Inc. but I haven't read any of Morrison's previous Batman work so decided not to touch on it in the review. All things considered, I thought Morrison did a good job of not making it too separate from the other Bat-books.
ReplyDeleteThat's what's truly remarkable about it. There's a lot more to it than what's in any given issue, but the way he's writing Batman, Inc. it really doesn't matter.
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