For months Commissioner Gordon has been forced to confront his lifelong struggle of trying to figure out his son. On the verge of discovering the truth, Joker escapes Arkham Asylum. When it rains, it pours...
The Good
I have never been so moved by a Batman story. The intensity that Scott Snyder brings to each issue (along with Jock in this one and Francesco Francavilla in others) is like no other Batman comic I've read. The stories, especially are so gritty and intense without being full of over the top gratuitous scenes. It's the subtle tone and insinuations that really get you. Gordon's hunt to discover the truth about James Gordon Jr is put on hold when (last issue) he got word that Joker managed to escape Arkham (again). WIth his ex-wife Barbara in town, it's a race to get to her before Joker can do what he usually does.
There are so many thrills and suspense filled in this issue. You'll find yourself turning the pages slowing in anticipation of the dread that might appear on the next page. Without trying to spoil anything, there is one page that is extremely powerful. It's one that has stuck with me since I first laid eyes on it. Snyder and Jock are not messing around here.
Last issue didn't feature Dick Grayson (as Batman) and with everything that happened, he wasn't needed. We do see Dick here reminding us how great of a job he has been doing as Batman. It's up to Dick to hunt and track him down. Being on Joker's home turf is not something to take lightly.
As for the Joker...we've seen many different interpretations over the years. The different versions help to showcase just how whacked out he really is. It's also one thing that makes him even more dangerous than other villains, you never know which Joker you're going to get. As for Snyder and Jock's version, he's not someone you'd want to be in the same city with. The way he looks, talks and moves is the stuff of nightmares.
And the last page...yikes.
The Bad
I am excited for the "New 52" in September. It's the thought of even the smallest story elements from Snyder's run being tucked away that concerns me. But with Snyder taking over Batman, there is hope.
The Verdict
How many have I mentioned that Detective Comics has been my favorite Batman series? We've been getting intense stories, new and old villains and a great depiction of Dick evolving beyond the skillful hero he was as Nightwing into a truly worthy successor to Bruce as Batman. The story of James Gordon Jr. has been frightful and intense without having to go for obvious shock value we often see elsewhere. Being that the possibilities hit so close to home with Commissioner Gordon, the storytelling and suspense will keep you glued to the pages as you slowly turn each one.
Let's not forget that Joker is here as well looking more insane than we've seen him lately. It's a horrible time to be in Batman's inner circle but the best time for us readers. I really hate to see Snyder's run with Jock and Francavilla end but with the way things are going, they are going to make this series go out with an enormous bang. Get ready to cover your ears.
Here's the preview from The Source.
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