Written by Grant Morrison
Art by Frank Quitely & DC’s Lettering Department
Cover Art by Frank Quitely
SUMMARY:
Published by DC Comics for August 2009, this new series helps launch the Batman Reborn phase, as Bruce Wayne is presumed dead in the wake of the Final Crisis mini-series. Dick Grayson is Gotham’s new Dark Knight with Bruce’s rebellious young son, Damian, as his Robin. The inaugural issue kicks off a three-part storyline, as the Dynamic Duo encounters the macabre Circus of Strange.
In “Part One: Domino Effect,” Gotham City thugs (including an aptly-named Mr. Toad) are pursued by a new flying Batmobile. Once captured, Toad threatens that the mysterious ‘Pyg’ will pay them back. An interlude depicts Alfred, Dick, & Damian at the new Batcave in downtown Gotham. Batman & Robin respond to the Bat-signal, as Commissioner Gordon is already skeptical of the Dark Knight’s latest incarnation.
Two Gotham street cops meet a grisly end while a Toad hoodlum desperately packs to flee town with his young daughter. It’s implied that the tortured crook and his daughter will be forcibly joining Pyg’s brainwashed cult.
Note: Artist J.G. Jones created an Alex-Ross style variant cover, but that image isn’t included with this comic.
REVIEW:
Considering the unremarkable storyline, it’s a peculiar and middling series opener. The good news is that brewing tension between Dick and his disdainful new protégé makes an intriguing element. Also, artist Frank Quitely deserves some kudos, as his distinctive style readily matches this issue’s macabre ambiance. Yet, the vile final page confirms that writer Grant Morrison intends this ghoulish storyline for adults only.
As Morrison’s Batman tales are often hit or miss — it’s fair to say that his Batman and Robin # 1 barely hits a double here rather than the necessary triple or home run that an inaugural issue really ought to be.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Three images preview the next issue (“The Circus of the Strange”) while the following page teases upcoming images in this Batman and Robin series. Also, Ian Sattler promotes the upcoming Heroes Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, for June 2009.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 4½ Stars
IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE
