Graphics: I have read four series in this collection, Frank Quitely is the lead artist for the first two subplots ( Batman Reborn and Revenge of the Redhood) and Cameron Stewart is the lead for the next two subplots ( Blackest Knight and Batman vs. Robin). At first, I enjoyed Stewart's style more because I thought it to be more easy on the eyes. Stewart draws with a cleaner line which makes his characters look on the younger side, but it also makes them more generic. Looking back on the comics, I realized it was Quitely's gritty and messy style that really made the comic come alive. Mr. Pyg was as gruesome a villain as they come and I could never really get used to Scarlet's new face. Quitely's many lines made Robin look a bit on the wrinkly side, but did a fantastic job on showing his true emotions. In the end, I really enjoyed Quitely's style and found myself missing the gritty textures in the second group of subplots.
Synopsis of Plot: Batman is dead. Resigning his post as Nightwing, Dick Grayson is taking over the role and teaming up with Batman's son, Damien, to become the new Batman & Robin. As Dick struggles to become the next dark knight, Damien is no help, having little to no faith in Dick to fill his father's shoes. Despite their differences they manage to stop a number of NEW incredibly twisted criminals in their tracks. As they slowly try to find the boss of the new crime network of Gotham, they stumble upon clues that lead them to think that Batman is still alive. Thus, the plot centers around the conflict within the newly formed duo as well as the conflict rising on the streets of Gotham.
Comments on Plot: I am quiet engrossed with this series. I do not think it is as enticing as The Long Halloween or HUSH, but this might be because I prefer Batman as a lone ranger. Many of the Batman and Robin series that I have attempted to read just turn out to be plain ol' hokey and not my type of comic, but this comic really proves me wrong. The new Robin talks back and is spoiled not by riches but by his mother, Talia, the daughter of Ra's Al Ghul and new leader of the League of Assasins! At first Dick was a bit too weak of character for me and I am kept wishing that Bruce Wayne would come back right away, but as the mystery unfolds the reader becomes more grateful for the plot twists. Also, this series opens up almost four other series to follow including Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne, where Batman travels through time, trying to make it to present day. It also can be considered a continuation of Battle for the Cowl, Batman R.I.P, and Final Crisis. Thus, if you wish to get into compilation of Batman madness, I think this series is an alright one to begin with.
Rating: 4 out of 5
If you would like to know more about Cameron's work, he has a blog here!
No comments:
Post a Comment