SYNOPSIS: Damian Wayne is the son of the Bat, grandson of the Demon, and Robin—but as he nears the age at which his father traveled the world, one question is on his mind: Who is Damian outside of the crusades his family has tasked him with fighting since birth? When he starts to look beyond his life of endless violence, a different way to help the world begins to present itself—but when an enigmatic new murderer begins reenacting traumatic crimes from Gotham’s history, Batman will need Robin more than ever before! It’s a whole new dynamic for the Dynamic Duo as the powerhouse team of Phillip Kennedy Johnson (Superman: Warworld Saga) and Javier Fernandez (King Spawn, Nightwing) bring you the dark and mystifying next chapter in the lives of Bruce and Damian Wayne! You are not ready for what’s in store.
Writer Phillip Kennedy Johnson, after a quick opening teaser to the Gotham of 1892, jumps in media res to a high-speed chase over a bridge in the Gotham of today, complete with a ticking time stamp in the corner, adding a sense of foreboding to the issue. Not only is it a fun way to start, but it allows artist Javi Fernandez to strut his stuff, especially in a two-page spread that puts you at the heart of the action!
While the beginning feels very much like a blockbuster summer movie, PKJ shifts the story forward, to Bruce and Damian back at Pennworth Manor, allowing for some character moments to flourish, a trait that continues as the Dynamic Duo appear in their civilian guises at a charity function at the Sacred Heart Medical Center. It’s scenes like these, as we see Bruce and Damian interact, that got me the most excited when Johnson was announced as the new writer. He’s been a deft hand at chronicling Superman as a dad and I knew he would bring that touch here to the Dark Knight.
Family relationships are highlighted in this issue, particularly Damian’s with both of his grandfathers. This does lead to a bit of friction between him and Bruce, but I don’t feel it negates where Williamson left them off in their relationship last issue. Damian’s petulance does rear its head, but so does his artistic talent, too, a characteristic I was happy to see carry on.
Speaking of artistic talent, Fernandez proves to be an excellent partner for Johnson. The fights are exciting, with a real sense of speed and danger. It’s also worth noting how varied the staging is for said action. The bridge fight is in no way laid out like the hospital fight, which relies on stealth and shadow. With a slight manga influence, I think Fernandez fits in line with the visuals this title has delivered before, but still with his own unique look.
Key to this arc is a new-to-us villain, one who knows Bruce from the past. PKJ creates a sense of intrigue, propelling the desire to read the next installment. While we only get a tease, I find myself immediately curious-are there ties to Ra’s al Ghul? Is there a hint of Gotham by Gaslight’s Jack the Ripper?
I am ALL IN with this new direction on Batman and Robin! The father and son dynamic feels right for this duo, there’s a mystery brewing, thrilling action, and lively visuals, feeling like a return to form for these Caped Crusaders! If this book hasn’t been on your pull list in a while, I urge you to give the new team a chance! – Javier E. Trujillo
GRADE: A