Holy Copycats, Batman!
Two-Face and Clayface have Project Gemini in full swing, meaning high-ranking officials and important members of society are being replaced by men of clay! This is big trouble for the Caped Crusaders when Gordon is one of the ones supplanted!
This ruse kicks off the issue’s big action sequence with the GCPD vs the Dynamic Duo! While it bears shades of Batman: Year One, the inclusion of Robin heightens the tension, as a young man is also in danger. Waid takes the opportunity to show how far along Batman and Robin’s partnership has developed, with the pair working more in concert than in issues past, including Batman using some circus lingo.
Samnee’s art is just impeccable here. He continues to have that noirish, retro feel, and the visuals are dramatic and thrilling. Batman looks deadly serious. In contrast, Robin has a lightness and playfulness that exudes from every flip and expression. I really wish he could be on a monthly Bat book. (Hint, hint, DC)
It’s not all double-crosses and police chases. A more personal threat emerges in the back half of the issue, causing a great deal of strife for Dick Grayson. Bruce Wayne is not without his troubles either, but Dick’s situation feels particularly heartbreaking. That final panel of Alfred’s reaction puts a hopeless button on the cliffhanger. You can practically imagine the voice of William Dozier narrating the end, advising you to tune in next month!
This is issue 10 of 12. You know the drill by now. Waid and Samnee are a perfect pair, crafting one of the best Bat books on the stands. If you love the classic pairing of Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson (and an Alfred who is alive), this is the book for you, containing exciting action and touching character moments. Don’t miss it! – Javier E. Trujillo
GRADE: A+
