Monday, September 19, 2011

The New 52! Batman and Robin #1!


DC decided to reboot their comic book universe, so I decided to blog along with it!

Batman and Robin #1

Peter J. Tomasi: Writer
Patrick Gleason: Penciller
Mick Gray: Inker

With all due respect to Detective comics and what Tony Daniel did, this really should have been the first Batman story in the new era. This comic feels like a new direction. We get up to speed on everything. The dynamic between Batman and Robin, the idea behind Batman Inc, and a new villain. All in all, a very good start.

Batman does a lot more in this comic than he has in any other DC Reboot title that is out there. He tells us that he is tired of honoring his parent's death, and says goodbye to them in his own way. He now wants to honor their wedding anniversary as a way to show progress. This is a really smart idea. It tells us that Batman understands the mission, but now knows that he can't let it bring him down.

Someone needs to let Robin know that. The son of Batman, Damian Wayne is an excellent counterpoint to the new Batman. Think of Damian as Jason Todd done right. Yes, this Robin has killed, but Batman has a more parental guardianship towards the newest Robin that will keep Damian around for awhile. And the kid is a total bratty smart ass. Its nice, and brings a good sense of balance to the dynamic duo.

The artwork is excellent. It reminds me of Scott McDaniel in a way. But this tells a story. Characters have faces, its a slightly cartoony style, and it just fits. I don't know if this art team will stay on board for a while, but they have my vote of confidence to keep going. And yes, this art does pass the test of telling the story by looking at the art alone.

Words: 9/10
Pictures: 9/10
Recommend: Hell yes, to readers both new and old.
Buy Next Issue: Got it on my pull list at the comic shop. Bring it on!

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