Nerdlocker Comic Book Review - Detective Comics #21
John Layman started Detective Comics 21 off with an interesting flashback. You realize that this is somewhat of a continuation of Detective Comics zero issue with Bruce’s love interest hiding in the shadows as she makes Bruce believe the worst. Not difficult since Bruce is still filled with emotions after the death of his son, Damian.
Scott Eaton artwork complements what Layman pens in this issue, because we are brought back to the present as we see Batman doing what he does best. The focal point is moved toward a new villain who is attempting to make a name for herself. What’s more surprising to see is that another character more known in her appearances in the Batman issues appears in this.
Harper's transition to Detective Comics is an interesting scenario because you see a dynamic that was gone after Damian’s death, but it’s a presence that not even Batman is used to. I like this issue, because it’s very different from the previous Emperor Penguin story. The aspect that we see Batman focus on Harpers well being, plus the fact that Harper has been brought into the mix is great to see as you still don’t know what she can bring to the <em>Detective Comics</em> table.
It’s a good introduction for a previous character that fans of the Batman series can enjoy as well as a new story that can really be promising.
(On a side note: The separate Man-Bat story towards the end of the issue was a really neat way of explaining the where a bout’s of Kirk Langstrom since his appearance in the title 2 months ago, and his findings of what the Man-Bat serum is even more interesting as it looks like another story will come of this. Andy Clarke’s art work is terrific and the story is just an added bonus!)
I’m giving Detective Comics a 3 out of 5 Nerdskulls.